Game guide · MINDONGYL
Find your footing in Nim
Nim gives you a focused activity to play in your browser. 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. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls.
Build familiarity through play
When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round. Use the example to check your reasoning.
The objective of a round
Remove the last counter on the board to win. An attractive position is not enough unless the goal is met. 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.
Controls
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Read a button’s label before selecting it. Use the visible help when you are unsure of the next input.
Learn from a sample situation
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. Use the example as a guide rather than a substitute for reading your board. Choose a deliberate next step.
One detail worth checking
Only one pile may be changed per turn. Take a moment to reassess the position before continuing. Compare the worked example with your own position. Use the reasoning, not an answer copied from a different board.
Questions that come up during play
On this playing page, what is the goal of Nim?
Remove the last counter on the board to win.
For this browser game, how do I control Nim?
The key detail is this: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
For a quick reminder, what example helps explain Nim?
For clarity: With piles of 1 and 2, a move may empty one pile, but cannot remove one counter from both in the same turn.
While learning, what should I watch out for in Nim?
Here is the relevant explanation: Only one pile may be changed per turn.
For this browser game, 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 my first round, 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.
For this browser game, where should I start with Nim?
For clarity: Player 1 chooses a pile.
When I return, 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.
On this playing page, 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.
How do I report an issue with Nim?
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.