Game guide · LYGXJD
Find your footing in Nim
Use a short break to learn the rhythm of Nim. 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.
Practice beyond the first move
Compare the worked example with your own position. Use the reasoning, not an answer copied from a different board. Use the example to check your reasoning.
The objective of a round
Remove the last counter on the board to win. An attractive position is not enough unless the goal is met. Return to the instructions when a step is unclear.
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.
Your inputs
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. On a smaller screen, keep the active part of the board within view. Check any mode label before starting.
One way to understand the rules
With piles of 1 and 2, a move may empty one pile, but cannot remove one counter from both in the same turn. Focus on why the action is allowed, not only its outcome. Notice the change in the playing area.
Check this before moving on
Only one pile may be changed per turn. A different version of the game may use a different rule. Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use.
Further help with the game
As a new player, what is the goal of Nim?
Keep this in mind: Remove the last counter on the board to win.
While reading the Guide, how do I control Nim?
Here is the relevant explanation: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
As a new player, what example helps explain Nim?
Here is the relevant explanation: With heaps of 1, 2 and 3 counters, choose one heap and remove at least one counter from it. You cannot take from two heaps in the same turn.
For my first round, what should I watch out for in Nim?
Here is the relevant explanation: Only one pile may be changed per turn.
For a quick reminder, 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.
As a new player, which play mode does Nim use?
For clarity: The mode on this page is Same-device two players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.
While learning, where should I start with Nim?
Player 1 chooses a pile.
While learning, 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.
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?
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.