THE PLAYBOOK · HENANYUFU
How to play Nim
Bring your attention to one round of Nim. Remove the last counter on the board to win. Use the example below to understand a decision. Begin with the same-device two players mode shown on the page. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions.
Review a difficult moment
When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round. Keep the objective visible.
Your goal
Remove the last counter on the board to win. An attractive position is not enough unless the goal is met. Return to the instructions when a step is unclear.
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. Use the control method described here for this activity. A new-round button replaces the current round.
A useful example
With piles of 1 and 2, a move may empty one pile, but cannot remove one counter from both in the same turn. Use the example as a guide rather than a substitute for reading your board. Consider the next action carefully.
Watch out for this
Only one pile may be changed per turn. Check the rule before repeating the action. Locate the buttons and input area before beginning a long round. Use the on-screen labels to avoid an accidental restart.
Common questions
Before I begin, what is the goal of Nim?
Here is the relevant explanation: Remove the last counter on the board to win.
For this browser game, how do I control Nim?
Here is the relevant explanation: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
Before I begin, what example helps explain Nim?
Here is the relevant explanation: If only one counter remains in one heap, taking it wins under the normal-play rule used here.
For a quick reminder, what should I watch out for in Nim?
For clarity: Only one pile may be changed per turn.
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.
Before I begin, 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.
