Game guide · SZLYSY56
An introduction to playing Nim
Start Nim by looking at the playing area and its controls. Remove the last counter on the board to win. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls. Keep the instructions close while learning this activity. Use the example below to understand a decision.
A focus for your next round
Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use. Keep the objective visible.
The objective of a round
Remove the last counter on the board to win. Use the instructions to see which actions move you towards it. Follow this game’s rules rather than another version’s.
Start here and follow along
- 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.
Your inputs
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Keep the playing area visible while using these controls. Avoid pressing the same control repeatedly while a move is being processed.
A closer look at one example
With piles of 1 and 2, a move may empty one pile, but cannot remove one counter from both in the same turn. Your next round may have a different position, so inspect it before acting. Look for the relevant detail.
Keep this in mind
Only one pile may be changed per turn. Check the rule before repeating the action. Compare the worked example with your own position. Use the reasoning, not an answer copied from a different board.
Questions about this game
For this browser game, what is the goal of Nim?
The key detail is this: Remove the last counter on the board to win.
As a new player, how do I control Nim?
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
When I return, what example helps explain Nim?
For clarity: If only one counter remains in one heap, taking it wins under the normal-play rule used here.
When I return, what should I watch out for in Nim?
The key detail is this: Only one pile may be changed per turn.
While learning, what format does Nim offer?
Keep this in mind: Play using the same-device two players mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.
For this browser game, which play mode does Nim use?
The mode on this page is Same-device two players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.
For this browser game, where should I start with Nim?
Here is the relevant explanation: Player 1 chooses a pile.
For this browser game, do I need an account or a payment for Nim?
For clarity: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.
For this browser game, how can I find Nim again?
Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.
For my first round, how do I report an issue with Nim?
For clarity: Use the contact form and include the game name, browser, device and the actions that led to the issue. Do not send passwords or payment details.