THE PLAYBOOK · XIQIGLASS
Making your first moves in Nim
Use a short break to learn the rhythm of Nim. Remove the last counter on the board to win. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move. Make your first input carefully and watch the result. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move.
An idea for your next attempt
After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again. Use the example to check your reasoning.
What counts as success
Remove the last counter on the board to win. Use the instructions to see which actions move you towards it. Review the board or playing area as it changes.
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.
Keyboard and screen controls
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Keep the playing area visible while using these controls. A new-round button replaces the current round.
One way to understand the rules
If only one counter remains in one heap, taking it wins under the normal-play rule used here. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Read the matching step again.
Check this before moving on
Only one pile may be changed per turn. Read the feedback to see why an action did not have the expected result. When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round.
A few questions answered
On this playing page, what is the goal of Nim?
The key detail is this: Remove the last counter on the board to win.
While reading the Guide, how do I control Nim?
For clarity: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
On this playing page, what example helps explain Nim?
For clarity: 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.
While reading the Guide, what should I watch out for in Nim?
The key detail is this: 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.
Which play mode does Nim use?
The key detail is this: The mode on this page is Same-device two players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.