Game guide · MSFRIES
Learn the rules of Reversi
Make Reversi your next activity in the game library. When neither player has a legal move, the player with more discs on the board wins; equal totals are a draw. Use the example below to understand a decision. Use the opening round to become familiar with the layout. Look at what changes after your first action.
Build familiarity through play
Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal. Make the next step deliberately.
What counts as success
When neither player has a legal move, the player with more discs on the board wins; equal totals are a draw. Keep that objective in view throughout the round. Start with a deliberate move.
Step by step
- Black moves first. Highlighted cells show legal placements.
- Place a disc to trap one or more opponent discs in a straight line.
- Every trapped line from that placement is flipped.
- If a player has no legal move, the turn automatically passes.
Keyboard and screen controls
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Read a button’s label before selecting it. Read the example below alongside these instructions.
A closer look at one example
Black–white–empty can become black–black–black when Black plays in the empty square. Your next round may have a different position, so inspect it before acting. Consider the next action carefully.
A useful caution
A placement must flip at least one opposing disc; simply placing beside your own discs is not enough. Compare the situation with the worked example. When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round.
Further help with the game
Before I begin, what is the goal of Reversi?
The key detail is this: When neither player has a legal move, the player with more discs on the board wins; equal totals are a draw.
As a new player, how do I control Reversi?
Keep this in mind: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
When I return, what example helps explain Reversi?
Keep this in mind: Black–white–empty can become black–black–black when Black plays in the empty square.
On this playing page, what should I watch out for in Reversi?
For clarity: A placement must flip at least one opposing disc; simply placing beside your own discs is not enough.
For a quick reminder, what format does Reversi offer?
Here is the relevant explanation: Play using the same-device two players mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.
Before I begin, which play mode does Reversi 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 this browser game, where should I start with Reversi?
Here is the relevant explanation: Black moves first. Highlighted cells show legal placements.
For a quick reminder, do I need an account or a payment for Reversi?
No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.
As a new player, how can I find Reversi again?
Keep this in mind: Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.
Before I begin, how do I report an issue with Reversi?
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.
