THE PLAYBOOK · SQZAPP
How to play Nim
Nim gives you a focused activity to play in your browser. 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.
Keep the aim in sight
Keep the stated aim separate from side details such as animation or appearance. Progress is measured by the game’s own completion or scoring rules. Make the next step deliberately.
Your goal
Remove the last counter on the board to win. Keep that objective in view throughout the round. Take a moment to understand the current position.
Step by step
- 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. Use the visible help when you are unsure of the next input.
A useful example
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. Apply the same reasoning to the position in your own round. Verify the rule before continuing.
Watch out for this
Only one pile may be changed per turn. 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.
Common questions
For this browser game, what is the goal of Nim?
Keep this in mind: Remove the last counter on the board to win.
When I return, how do I control Nim?
For clarity: 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 learning, 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?
Play using the same-device two players mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.
When I return, 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.