Game guide · LIER88
Getting started with Nim
Choose a round of Nim and settle into its rules. 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. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls.
Practice beyond the first move
Watch the feedback after an action. A message can explain whether the input was accepted or whether a rule needs attention. Notice the feedback after each input.
The goal to keep in mind
Remove the last counter on the board to win. Keep that objective in view throughout the round. Follow this game’s rules rather than another version’s.
Making your moves
- 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. Make sure you are interacting with the game rather than the surrounding page.
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. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Check the stated objective.
Watch out for this
Only one pile may be changed per turn. Check the rule before repeating the action. When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round.
Read these answers for extra help
As a new player, what is the goal of Nim?
For clarity: Remove the last counter on the board to win.
For my first round, 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?
Keep this in mind: If only one counter remains in one heap, taking it wins under the normal-play rule used here.
While reading the Guide, what should I watch out for in Nim?
Only one pile may be changed per turn.
For my first round, what format does Nim offer?
Keep this in mind: 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.
For my first round, where should I start with Nim?
The key detail is this: Player 1 chooses a pile.
For this browser game, 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.
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 reading the Guide, 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.