THE PLAYBOOK · ZRZCH
Nim: instructions and practice
Choose a round of Nim and settle into its rules. Remove the last counter on the board to win. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls. Keep the instructions close while learning this activity. Use the example below to understand a decision.
Give this approach a try
Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use. Make the next step deliberately.
The objective of a round
Remove the last counter on the board to win. Keep that objective in view throughout the round. Start with a deliberate move.
How a round unfolds
- 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. A careful first action helps you become familiar with the layout. Look at the feedback after the action.
Put the rules into context
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. Your next round may have a different position, so inspect it before acting. Keep the game’s format in mind.
An important reminder
Only one pile may be changed per turn. Take a moment to reassess the position before continuing. Compare the worked example with your own position. Use the reasoning, not an answer copied from a different board.
Read these answers for extra help
As a new player, what is the goal of Nim?
Remove the last counter on the board to win.
When I return, how do I control Nim?
Here is the relevant explanation: 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.
On this playing page, what should I watch out for in Nim?
The key detail is this: Only one pile may be changed per turn.
As a new player, 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.
On this playing page, which play mode does Nim use?
Keep this in mind: The mode on this page is Same-device two players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.