Game guide · SBBEN
A practical guide to Nim
Try Nim at your own pace and keep its objective in view. 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. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls.
A focus for your next round
After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again. Make the next step deliberately.
What counts as success
Remove the last counter on the board to win. Use the instructions to see which actions move you towards it. Take a moment to understand the current position.
Work through the instructions
- 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. Use the visible help when you are unsure of the next input.
Try this example
If only one counter remains in one heap, taking it wins under the normal-play rule used here. Apply the same reasoning to the position in your own round. Consider the next action carefully.
Watch out for this
Only one pile may be changed per turn. A different version of the game may use a different rule. Choose one rule to keep in mind for this round. Apply it consistently rather than guessing what another version might allow.
Questions that come up during play
When I return, what is the goal of Nim?
Keep this in mind: Remove the last counter on the board to win.
On this playing page, how do I control Nim?
The key detail is this: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
For this browser game, what example helps explain Nim?
Here is the relevant explanation: With piles of 1 and 2, a move may empty one pile, but cannot remove one counter from both in the same turn.
For this browser game, what should I watch out for in Nim?
For clarity: Only one pile may be changed per turn.
When I return, 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 my first round, which play mode does Nim use?
The key detail is this: 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?
The key detail is this: Player 1 chooses a pile.
For a quick reminder, do I need an account or a payment for Nim?
Here is the relevant explanation: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.
While reading the Guide, how can I find Nim again?
For clarity: 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?
Here is the relevant explanation: 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.
