THE PLAYBOOK · ZYCGLH
How to play Reversi
Bring your attention to one round of Reversi. When neither player has a legal move, the player with more discs on the board wins; equal totals are a draw. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions. Check the rule that explains your first action. Look at what changes after your first action.
Focus on one rule
Choose one rule to keep in mind for this round. Apply it consistently rather than guessing what another version might allow. Keep the objective visible.
Your goal
When neither player has a legal move, the player with more discs on the board wins; equal totals are a draw. An attractive position is not enough unless the goal is met. Keep the controls in easy reach.
Step by step
- Black moves first. Highlighted cells show legal placements.
- Place a disc to trap one or more opponent discs in a straight line.
- Every trapped line from that placement is flipped.
- If a player has no legal move, the turn automatically passes.
Controls
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. On a smaller screen, keep the active part of the board within view. A new-round button replaces the current round.
A useful example
Black–white–empty can become black–black–black when Black plays in the empty square. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Take a moment to compare.
Watch out for this
A placement must flip at least one opposing disc; simply placing beside your own discs is not enough. Compare the situation with the worked example. Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal.
Common questions
For a quick reminder, what is the goal of Reversi?
For clarity: When neither player has a legal move, the player with more discs on the board wins; equal totals are a draw.
For this browser game, how do I control Reversi?
Keep this in mind: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
While learning, what example helps explain Reversi?
For clarity: Black–white–empty can become black–black–black when Black plays in the empty square.
While reading the Guide, what should I watch out for in Reversi?
Keep this in mind: A placement must flip at least one opposing disc; simply placing beside your own discs is not enough.
As a new player, what format does Reversi offer?
Here is the relevant explanation: Play using the same-device two players mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.
While learning, which play mode does Reversi 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.