THE PLAYBOOK · ADAMMBS
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. 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.
A useful comparison
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.
Your goal
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.
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. 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.
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. Read one step at a time and try it on the playing area. Match the instruction to the control you use.
Common questions
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.