Skip to content
XINLIANSHOP

Same-device two players · FREE PLAY

Nim

Read the rules ↓
Board games
Choose your controls and enjoy a free round.
No account neededRules & controls →

Game guide · XINLIANSHOP

Nim: instructions and practice

Try Nim at your own pace and keep its objective in view. Remove the last counter on the board to win. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move. Keep the instructions close while learning this activity. Use the example below to understand a decision.

One thing to notice as you play

Choose one rule to keep in mind for this round. Apply it consistently rather than guessing what another version might allow. Notice the feedback after each input.

What the game asks you to do

Remove the last counter on the board to win. The feedback beside the game helps you follow the round. Keep the controls in easy reach.

How to proceed

  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.

Controls

Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. On a smaller screen, keep the active part of the board within view. Contact us with the game and device if a control does not respond.

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.

Keep this in mind

Only one pile may be changed per turn. Compare the situation with the worked example. Choose one rule to keep in mind for this round. Apply it consistently rather than guessing what another version might allow.

More answers before you play

When I return, what is the goal of Nim?

The key detail is this: Remove the last counter on the board to win.

On this playing page, how do I control Nim?

Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.

Before I begin, what example helps explain Nim?

The key detail is this: If only one counter remains in one heap, taking it wins under the normal-play rule used here.

For my first round, what should I watch out for in Nim?

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

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.

When I return, which play mode does Nim use?

The mode on this page is Same-device two players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.

On this playing page, where should I start with Nim?

Keep this in mind: Player 1 chooses a pile.

For this browser game, do I need an account or a payment for Nim?

Here is the relevant explanation: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.

For a quick reminder, how can I find Nim 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.

As a new player, how do I report an issue with Nim?

Keep this in mind: 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.

Games

Move on to your next game

View all games
Choose a Card Game (opens in a new tab)