Game guide · ZZQHMY
Find your footing in Nim
Start Nim by looking at the playing area and its controls. Remove the last counter on the board to win. Look at what changes after your first action. Keep the instructions close while learning this activity. Use the example below to understand a decision.
A focus for your next round
When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round. Use the example to check your reasoning.
The challenge in front of you
Remove the last counter on the board to win. Keep that objective in view throughout the round. The example below illustrates a decision.
The playing sequence
- 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.
How to interact with the game
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. Notice the change in the playing area.
Where a round can go wrong
Only one pile may be changed per turn. Read the feedback to see why an action did not have the expected result. Keep the stated aim separate from side details such as animation or appearance. Progress is measured by the game’s own completion or scoring rules.
Common questions
While learning, what is the goal of Nim?
Remove the last counter on the board to win.
For this browser game, 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?
Keep this in mind: 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?
Keep this in mind: Only one pile may be changed per turn.
For my first round, what format does Nim offer?
Play using the same-device two players mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.
For my first round, 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.
Before I begin, where should I start with Nim?
Keep this in mind: Player 1 chooses a pile.
Do I need an account or a payment for Nim?
Here is the relevant explanation: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.
Before I begin, how can I find Nim again?
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?
Here is the relevant explanation: 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.