THE PLAYBOOK · CD12372
Nim: what to know before playing
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. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move.
A small practice goal
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. Notice the feedback after each input.
What counts as success
Remove the last counter on the board to win. Use the instructions to see which actions move you towards it. Check the rules when you are unsure.
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.
Using the playing area
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Use the control method described here for this activity. A new-round button replaces the current round.
See the idea in action
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. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Choose a deliberate next step.
Where a round can go wrong
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.
Common questions
What is the goal of Nim?
For clarity: Remove the last counter on the board to win.
For this browser game, how do I control Nim?
Keep this in mind: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
On this playing page, what example helps explain Nim?
For clarity: 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?
For clarity: Only one pile may be changed per turn.
On this playing page, 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.
Before I begin, 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.
