Game guide · LYFPL
Your guide to Nim
Choose a round of Nim and settle into its rules. Remove the last counter on the board to win. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move. Keep the instructions close while learning this activity. Use the example below to understand a decision.
Practice with a purpose
Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal. Keep the objective visible.
The objective of a round
Remove the last counter on the board to win. Read that aim before choosing your first action. Keep the controls in easy reach.
Work through the instructions
- 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. Use the control method described here for this activity. Read the example below alongside these instructions.
Work through an example
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. Apply the same reasoning to the position in your own round. Look for the relevant detail.
Watch out for this
Only one pile may be changed per turn. Take a moment to reassess the position before continuing. After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again.
More answers before you play
As a new player, what is the goal of Nim?
For clarity: Remove the last counter on the board to win.
On this playing page, how do I control Nim?
Keep this in mind: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
While learning, 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.
On this playing page, what should I watch out for in Nim?
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.
While learning, 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.
As a new player, where should I start with Nim?
Player 1 chooses a pile.
Before I begin, 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.
For my first round, how can I find Nim again?
Here is the relevant explanation: Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.
On this playing page, how do I report an issue with Nim?
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.