Game guide · KP028
Making your first moves in Nim
Start Nim by looking at the playing area and its controls. 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. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls.
Practice beyond the first move
Locate the buttons and input area before beginning a long round. Use the on-screen labels to avoid an accidental restart. Notice the feedback after each input.
Your goal
Remove the last counter on the board to win. Keep that objective in view throughout the round. The example below illustrates a decision.
A walkthrough of the rules
- 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 use the controls
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Use the control method described here for this activity. Use one clear input at a time.
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. Check the stated objective.
Avoid this misunderstanding
Only one pile may be changed per turn. Read the feedback to see why an action did not have the expected result. Watch the feedback after an action. A message can explain whether the input was accepted or whether a rule needs attention.
If you are unsure
For a quick reminder, what is the goal of Nim?
Here is the relevant explanation: Remove the last counter on the board to win.
When I return, how do I control Nim?
Keep this in mind: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
Before I begin, what example helps explain Nim?
For clarity: If only one counter remains in one heap, taking it wins under the normal-play rule used here.
When I return, what should I watch out for in Nim?
For clarity: Only one pile may be changed per turn.
For this browser game, 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.
On this playing page, which play mode does Nim use?
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?
The key detail is this: Player 1 chooses a pile.
While reading the Guide, 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.
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.
As a new player, 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.