Game guide · MY2171
Nim: what to know before playing
Nim gives you a focused activity to play in your browser. Remove the last counter on the board to win. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions. Keep the instructions close while learning this activity. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions.
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. Keep the objective visible.
Understand the aim
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.
Follow these playing steps
- 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. Read a button’s label before selecting it. Read the example below alongside these instructions.
Try this example
With piles of 1 and 2, a move may empty one pile, but cannot remove one counter from both in the same turn. Use the example as a guide rather than a substitute for reading your board. Consider the next action carefully.
Notice this detail
Only one pile may be changed per turn. Read the feedback to see why an action did not have the expected result. Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use.
Clarifying the way this game works
On this playing page, what is the goal of Nim?
Keep this in mind: Remove the last counter on the board to win.
When I return, how do I control Nim?
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.
On this playing page, what should I watch out for in Nim?
Keep this in mind: Only one pile may be changed per turn.
For this browser game, 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.
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.
On this playing page, where should I start with Nim?
For clarity: Player 1 chooses a pile.
Before I begin, do I need an account or a payment for Nim?
No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.
While learning, how can I find Nim again?
The key detail is this: 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?
For clarity: 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.