THE PLAYBOOK · GG-SCMS
How to play Nim
Read the aim of Nim, then make your first move. 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. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move.
Build familiarity through play
Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal. Notice the feedback after each input.
Aim for this result
Remove the last counter on the board to win. Use the instructions to see which actions move you towards it. Start with a deliberate move.
The order of 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.
Making selections and moves
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. On a smaller screen, keep the active part of the board within view. Use one clear input at a time.
A closer look at one example
With piles of 1 and 2, a move may empty one pile, but cannot remove one counter from both in the same turn. Your next round may have a different position, so inspect it before acting. Read the matching step again.
Check this before moving on
Only one pile may be changed per turn. Take a moment to reassess the position before continuing. Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use.
Questions about this game
When I return, what is the goal of Nim?
For clarity: Remove the last counter on the board to win.
While learning, how do I control Nim?
The key detail is this: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
While reading the Guide, what example helps explain Nim?
The key detail is this: If only one counter remains in one heap, taking it wins under the normal-play rule used here.
When I return, 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?
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.
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.