Game guide · MSFRIES
An introduction to playing Nim
Bring your attention to one round of Nim. Remove the last counter on the board to win. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions. Keep the instructions close while learning this activity. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls.
Bring this focus to a round
When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round. Make the next step deliberately.
Your objective
Remove the last counter on the board to win. Keep that objective in view throughout the round. Start with a deliberate move.
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.
Controls
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.
See how the rules apply
With piles of 1 and 2, a move may empty one pile, but cannot remove one counter from both in the same turn. Focus on why the action is allowed, not only its outcome. Keep the controls nearby.
One detail worth checking
Only one pile may be changed per turn. Read the feedback to see why an action did not have the expected result. Choose one rule to keep in mind for this round. Apply it consistently rather than guessing what another version might allow.
Further help with the game
While learning, what is the goal of Nim?
Here is the relevant explanation: Remove the last counter on the board to win.
As a new player, how do I control Nim?
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
For my first round, what example helps explain Nim?
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 learning, what should I watch out for in Nim?
Keep this in mind: Only one pile may be changed per turn.
While reading the Guide, what format does Nim offer?
The key detail is this: Play using the same-device two players mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.
As a new player, which play mode does Nim use?
For clarity: 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 a quick reminder, where should I start with Nim?
Here is the relevant explanation: Player 1 chooses a pile.
For a quick reminder, do I need an account or a payment for Nim?
For clarity: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.
While learning, how can I find Nim again?
For clarity: Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.
For this browser game, 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.
