Skip to content
MU6006THE EVERYDAY PLAY CLUB

RULES & PRACTICE

How to Play Nim

Play Nim ↗

THE PLAYBOOK · MU6006

Learn your way around Nim

Make Nim your next activity in the game library. Remove the last counter on the board to win. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move. Begin with the same-device two players mode shown on the page. Use the example below to understand a decision.

Take a closer look while playing

Watch the feedback after an action. A message can explain whether the input was accepted or whether a rule needs attention. Refer to the controls when needed.

The objective of a round

Remove the last counter on the board to win. Read that aim before choosing your first action. Check the rules when you are unsure.

The order of play

  1. Player 1 chooses a pile.
  2. Remove at least one counter, and up to all counters, from that pile.
  3. The next player chooses a pile and an amount.
  4. Continue until no counters remain.

Using the playing area

Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Keep the playing area visible while using these controls. Check any mode label before starting.

Follow the example

If only one counter remains in one heap, taking it wins under the normal-play rule used here. Apply the same reasoning to the position in your own round. Keep the game’s format in mind.

Watch out for this

Only one pile may be changed per turn. A different version of the game may use a different rule. Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use.

Further help with the game

While reading the Guide, what is the goal of Nim?

Keep this in mind: Remove the last counter on the board to win.

For this browser game, 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?

The key detail is this: Only one pile may be changed per turn.

For my first round, 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.

For this browser game, 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.

Play More Games (opens in a new tab)