Game guide · HNSGYQT
The essentials of playing Nim
Try Nim at your own pace and keep its objective in view. Remove the last counter on the board to win. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls. Keep the instructions close while learning this activity. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls.
Take a closer look while playing
Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use. Keep the objective visible.
What you need to achieve
Remove the last counter on the board to win. Keep that objective in view throughout the round. Review the board or playing area as it changes.
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. Keep the playing area visible while using these controls. Look at the feedback after the action.
A closer look at one example
If only one counter remains in one heap, taking it wins under the normal-play rule used here. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Look for the relevant detail.
A common point of confusion
Only one pile may be changed per turn. Take a moment to reassess the position before continuing. When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round.
Clarifying the way this game works
Before I begin, what is the goal of Nim?
Here is the relevant explanation: Remove the last counter on the board to win.
For a quick reminder, how do I control Nim?
Here is the relevant explanation: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
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.
When I return, what should I watch out for in Nim?
For clarity: Only one pile may be changed per turn.
While reading the Guide, 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.
While learning, 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.
When I return, where should I start with Nim?
The key detail is this: Player 1 chooses a pile.
For my first round, 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.
For this browser game, 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 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.