Game guide · YDWEIXIU
Learn your way around Nim
Bring your attention to one round of Nim. 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.
One thing to notice as you play
Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use. Notice the feedback after each input.
Your goal
Remove the last counter on the board to win. Read that aim before choosing your first action. Notice how the game responds to your input.
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.
Using the playing area
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.
Work through an example
If only one counter remains in one heap, taking it wins under the normal-play rule used here. Your next round may have a different position, so inspect it before acting. Keep the controls nearby.
A mistake to avoid
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.
Read these answers for extra help
While learning, what is the goal of Nim?
For clarity: Remove the last counter on the board to win.
While learning, 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?
With piles of 1 and 2, a move may empty one pile, but cannot remove one counter from both in the same turn.
For a quick reminder, what should I watch out for in Nim?
Here is the relevant explanation: Only one pile may be changed per turn.
For my first round, what format does Nim offer?
For clarity: Play using the same-device two players mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.
For a quick reminder, 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.
When I return, where should I start with Nim?
The key detail is this: Player 1 chooses a pile.
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?
For clarity: Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.
While learning, 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.
