Two players · rows of marks
How to play Nim
Rows of pencil marks. Take turns crossing out as many as you like from one row. Whoever crosses out the last mark loses.
What you need
- A pencil or pen
- A sheet of paper
- Two players
How to set up
Draw four rows of marks: 1, 3, 5 and 7 (or any rows you like). Decide who goes first.
1. Draw four rows of short upright marks: 1, 3, 5 and 7.
2. On your turn, cross out one or more marks from a single row.
3. Whoever has to cross out the very last mark loses.
How to play
- Cross out as many marks as you like, at least one, all from the same row.
- You may take a whole row.
How to win
Make your rival cross out the last mark. The player who crosses out the last mark loses. (Or agree beforehand that the last mark wins.)
Tip Two equal rows cancel out: whatever your rival takes from one, take from the other.
Variants
- Classic
- Rows of 1, 3, 5 and 7. The last mark loses.
- Random rows
- Four new rows every game. The last mark loses.
- Last mark wins
- Rows of 1, 3, 5 and 7. Take the last mark to win.
Play Nim in the app
- Play against doodled characters, from beginner to expert.
- Pass and play with a friend on one device.
Every game comes with a step-by-step tutorial and printable sheets.