THE PLAYBOOK · FJHONGZHI
How to play Nim
Try Nim at your own pace and keep its objective in view. Remove the last counter on the board to win. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions. Read the objective before making your first input. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls.
One thing to notice as you play
When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round. Refer to the controls when needed.
What you need to achieve
Remove the last counter on the board to win. An attractive position is not enough unless the goal is met. Take a moment to understand the current position.
Making your moves
- 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.
How to use the controls
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. On a smaller screen, keep the active part of the board within view. Read the example below alongside these instructions.
Work through an 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. Check the stated objective.
An important reminder
Only one pile may be changed per turn. Compare the situation with the worked example. Keep the stated aim separate from side details such as animation or appearance. Progress is measured by the game’s own completion or scoring rules.
Helpful answers for players
On this playing page, 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?
The key detail is this: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
While learning, what example helps explain Nim?
For clarity: With piles of 1 and 2, a move may empty one pile, but cannot remove one counter from both in the same turn.
Before I begin, 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?
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?
Here is the relevant explanation: The mode on this page is Same-device two players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.
