How to Play Nim

THE PLAYBOOK · SCBLUELAW

Start Nim by looking at the playing area and its controls. Remove the last counter on the board to win. Look at what changes after your first action. Compare the starting position with the example in the Guide. Look at what changes after your first action.

A useful comparison

Compare the worked example with your own position. Use the reasoning, not an answer copied from a different board. Keep the objective visible.

Your goal

Remove the last counter on the board to win. Use the instructions to see which actions move you towards it. Check the rules when you are unsure.

Step by step

Player 1 chooses a pile.
Remove at least one counter, and up to all counters, from that pile.
The next player chooses a pile and an amount.
Continue until no counters remain.

Controls

Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Keep the playing area visible while using these controls. Check any mode label before starting.

A useful example

With heaps of 1, 2 and 3 counters, choose one heap and remove at least one counter from it. You cannot take from two heaps in the same turn. Focus on why the action is allowed, not only its outcome. Verify the rule before continuing.

Watch out for this

Only one pile may be changed per turn. A different version of the game may use a different rule. Keep the stated aim separate from side details such as animation or appearance. Progress is measured by the game’s own completion or scoring rules.

Common questions

For a quick reminder, what is the goal of Nim?

Keep this in mind: Remove the last counter on the board to win.

While learning, how do I control Nim?

Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.

For my first round, what example helps explain Nim?

For clarity: With heaps of 1, 2 and 3 counters, choose one heap and remove at least one counter from it. You cannot take from two heaps in the same turn.

What should I watch out for in Nim?

The key detail is this: Only one pile may be changed per turn.

Before I begin, what format does Nim offer?

Play using the same-device two players mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.

While learning, which play mode does Nim use?

Here is the relevant explanation: The mode on this page is Same-device two players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.