Game guide · HKXLJJ
Nim: learn through an example
Open Nim, check the instructions and begin a round. 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.
Practice with a purpose
Locate the buttons and input area before beginning a long round. Use the on-screen labels to avoid an accidental restart. Notice the feedback after each input.
What counts as success
Remove the last counter on the board to win. Read that aim before choosing your first action. Follow this game’s rules rather than another version’s.
The steps to play
- 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 your actions work
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
If only one counter remains in one heap, taking it wins under the normal-play rule used here. Use the example as a guide rather than a substitute for reading your board. Read the matching step again.
Keep this in mind
Only one pile may be changed per turn. Compare the situation with the worked example. Compare the worked example with your own position. Use the reasoning, not an answer copied from a different board.
More answers before you play
Before I begin, what is the goal of Nim?
For clarity: Remove the last counter on the board to win.
On this playing page, how do I control Nim?
Keep this in mind: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
While learning, what example helps explain Nim?
With piles of 1 and 2, a move may empty one pile, but cannot remove one counter from both in the same turn.
While learning, what should I watch out for in Nim?
Only one pile may be changed per turn.
For my first round, 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 this browser game, 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.
As a new player, where should I start with Nim?
Keep this in mind: Player 1 chooses a pile.
While reading the Guide, do I need an account or a payment for Nim?
Keep this in mind: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.
Before I begin, 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.
While reading the Guide, how do I report an issue with Nim?
Keep this in mind: 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.