THE PLAYBOOK · ADAMMBS
The essentials of playing 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. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move. Compare the starting position with the example in the Guide. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions.
Take a closer look while playing
Compare the worked example with your own position. Use the reasoning, not an answer copied from a different board. Use the example to check your reasoning.
What you are aiming for
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. Notice how the game responds to your input.
How a round unfolds
- 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.
Input guidance
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Use the control method described here for this activity. Make sure you are interacting with the game rather than the surrounding page.
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. Look for the relevant detail.
Notice this detail
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. Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use.
If you are unsure
When I return, 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.
How do I control Reversi?
Keep this in mind: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
As a new player, what example helps explain Reversi?
For clarity: Black–white–empty can become black–black–black when Black plays in the empty square.
For my first round, what should I watch out for in Reversi?
The key detail is this: A placement must flip at least one opposing disc; simply placing beside your own discs is not enough.
On this playing page, what format does Reversi 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 Reversi 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.