Game guide · HNSGYQT
The Reversi playbook
Choose a round of Reversi and settle into its rules. When neither player has a legal move, the player with more discs on the board wins; equal totals are a draw. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move. Use the opening round to become familiar with the layout. Look at what changes after your first action.
Practice beyond the first move
Choose one rule to keep in mind for this round. Apply it consistently rather than guessing what another version might allow. Refer to the controls when needed.
The objective of a round
When neither player has a legal move, the player with more discs on the board wins; equal totals are a draw. Keep that objective in view throughout the round. Take a moment to understand the current position.
Start here and follow along
- Black moves first. Highlighted cells show legal placements.
- Place a disc to trap one or more opponent discs in a straight line.
- Every trapped line from that placement is flipped.
- If a player has no legal move, the turn automatically passes.
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. Return to the rules if the result is unexpected.
One way to understand the rules
Black–white–empty can become black–black–black when Black plays in the empty square. Apply the same reasoning to the position in your own round. Consider the next action carefully.
A useful caution
A placement must flip at least one opposing disc; simply placing beside your own discs is not enough. 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.
Questions that come up during play
As a new player, what is the goal of Reversi?
Keep this in mind: When neither player has a legal move, the player with more discs on the board wins; equal totals are a draw.
As a new player, how do I control Reversi?
Keep this in mind: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
Before I begin, what example helps explain Reversi?
Keep this in mind: Black–white–empty can become black–black–black when Black plays in the empty square.
Before I begin, what should I watch out for in Reversi?
Keep this in mind: A placement must flip at least one opposing disc; simply placing beside your own discs is not enough.
What format does Reversi 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.
On this playing page, which play mode does Reversi 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 Reversi?
Here is the relevant explanation: Black moves first. Highlighted cells show legal placements.
For this browser game, do I need an account or a payment for Reversi?
No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.
When I return, how can I find Reversi 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.
Before I begin, how do I report an issue with Reversi?
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.