Game guide · LOUPINWU
A practical guide to 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. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions.
An idea for your next attempt
Compare the worked example with your own position. Use the reasoning, not an answer copied from a different board. Use the example to check your reasoning.
Your objective
Remove the last counter on the board to win. The feedback beside the game helps you follow the round. Follow this game’s rules rather than another version’s.
A walkthrough of the rules
- 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 your actions work
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Use the control method described here for this activity. Contact us with the game and device if a control does not respond.
An example to follow
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. Take a moment to compare.
One detail worth checking
Only one pile may be changed per turn. Check the rule before repeating the action. Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal.
Answers about the rules and controls
While learning, what is the goal of Nim?
Keep this in mind: 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?
The key detail is this: 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.
Before I begin, what should I watch out for in Nim?
Keep this in mind: Only one pile may be changed per turn.
When I return, what format does Nim offer?
For clarity: Play using the same-device two players mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.
While reading the Guide, 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.
As a new player, where should I start with Nim?
Here is the relevant explanation: Player 1 chooses a pile.
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.
As a new player, how can I find Nim again?
The key detail is this: Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.
For a quick reminder, how do I report an issue with Nim?
Here is the relevant explanation: 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.
