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KSZXDJJ

RULES & PRACTICE

How to Play Nim

Play Nim ↗

Game guide · KSZXDJJ

Getting started with Nim

Make Nim your next activity in the game library. Remove the last counter on the board to win. Use the example below to understand a decision. Keep the instructions close while learning this activity. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions.

Bring this focus to a round

Choose one rule to keep in mind for this round. Apply it consistently rather than guessing what another version might allow. Notice the feedback after each input.

The goal to keep in mind

Remove the last counter on the board to win. The feedback beside the game helps you follow the round. The example below illustrates a decision.

Follow these playing steps

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

Keyboard and screen controls

Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Read a button’s label before selecting it. A new-round button replaces the current round.

An example to follow

If only one counter remains in one heap, taking it wins under the normal-play rule used here. Focus on why the action is allowed, not only its outcome. Keep the game’s format in mind.

Where a round can go wrong

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.

More answers before you play

For my first round, what is the goal of Nim?

For clarity: Remove the last counter on the board to win.

While reading the Guide, how do I control Nim?

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

As a new player, what example helps explain Nim?

Here is the relevant explanation: 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.

For a quick reminder, what should I watch out for in Nim?

Keep this in mind: Only one pile may be changed per turn.

Before I begin, what format does Nim offer?

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

For my first round, which play mode does Nim use?

Keep this in mind: The mode on this page is Same-device two players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.

Where should I start with Nim?

Keep this in mind: Player 1 chooses a pile.

While learning, do I need an account or a payment for Nim?

No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.

For my first round, 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.

When I return, 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.

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