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12530NET

RULES & PRACTICE

How to Play Reversi

Play Reversi ↗

Game guide · 12530NET

Reversi: learn through an example

Read the aim of Reversi, then make your first move. When neither player has a legal move, the player with more discs on the board wins; equal totals are a draw. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls. Check the rule that explains your first action. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions.

Something to practise

Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use. Notice the feedback after each input.

The purpose of your moves

When neither player has a legal move, the player with more discs on the board wins; equal totals are a draw. Keep that objective in view throughout the round. Review the board or playing area as it changes.

How a round unfolds

  1. Black moves first. Highlighted cells show legal placements.
  2. Place a disc to trap one or more opponent discs in a straight line.
  3. Every trapped line from that placement is flipped.
  4. If a player has no legal move, the turn automatically passes.

Getting comfortable with the 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

Black–white–empty can become black–black–black when Black plays in the empty square. Compare this with the rule that governs the move. Keep the game’s format in mind.

An important reminder

A placement must flip at least one opposing disc; simply placing beside your own discs is not enough. A different version of the game may use a different rule. Choose one rule to keep in mind for this round. Apply it consistently rather than guessing what another version might allow.

Questions about this game

While learning, what is the goal of Reversi?

The key detail is this: When neither player has a legal move, the player with more discs on the board wins; equal totals are a draw.

For a quick reminder, how do I control Reversi?

The key detail is this: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.

While learning, what example helps explain Reversi?

Keep this in mind: Black–white–empty can become black–black–black when Black plays in the empty square.

While learning, 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.

While learning, what format does Reversi offer?

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.

When I return, where should I start with Reversi?

Here is the relevant explanation: Black moves first. Highlighted cells show legal placements.

Do I need an account or a payment for Reversi?

For clarity: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.

Before I begin, how can I find Reversi again?

Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.

Before I begin, how do I report an issue with Reversi?

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.

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