Game guide · GDSZY189
Getting started with Nim
Bring your attention to one round of Nim. Remove the last counter on the board to win. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions. Keep the instructions close while learning this activity. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions.
Try a more deliberate round
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.
What you need to achieve
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.
A walkthrough of the rules
- 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.
The controls to know
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. On a smaller screen, keep the active part of the board within view. Look at the feedback after the action.
Put the rules into context
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. Use the example as a guide rather than a substitute for reading your board. Take a moment to compare.
Keep this in mind
Only one pile may be changed per turn. Compare the situation with the worked example. Choose one rule to keep in mind for this round. Apply it consistently rather than guessing what another version might allow.
A few questions answered
Before I begin, what is the goal of Nim?
The key detail is this: Remove the last counter on the board to win.
For a quick reminder, 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?
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 my first round, what should I watch out for in Nim?
Here is the relevant explanation: Only one pile may be changed per turn.
On this playing page, 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.
While learning, 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 a quick reminder, where should I start with Nim?
For clarity: Player 1 chooses a pile.
When I return, 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.
While learning, how can I find Nim again?
Keep this in mind: Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.
For a quick reminder, how do I report an issue with Nim?
The key detail is this: 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.