How to Play Nim

THE PLAYBOOK · JINHUIBLIND

How to play Nim

Open Nim, check the instructions and begin a round. Remove the last counter on the board to win. Look at what changes after your first action. Identify the playing area and the controls you need. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions.

Focus on one rule

Choose one rule to keep in mind for this round. Apply it consistently rather than guessing what another version might allow. Make the next step deliberately.

Your goal

Remove the last counter on the board to win. An attractive position is not enough unless the goal is met. Start with a deliberate move.

Step by step

1. Player 1 chooses a pile.
2. Remove at least one counter, and up to all counters, from that pile.
3. The next player chooses a pile and an amount.
4. Continue until no counters remain.

Controls

Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Keep the playing area visible while using these controls. Read the example below alongside these instructions.

A useful 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.

Watch out for this

Only one pile may be changed per turn. Check the rule before repeating the action. Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal.

Common questions