Game guide · WWJSMY
Reversi: rules and examples
Reversi gives you a focused activity to play in your browser. 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. Use the opening round to become familiar with the layout. Look at what changes after your first action.
Give this approach a try
After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again. Refer to the controls when needed.
What you need to achieve
When neither player has a legal move, the player with more discs on the board wins; equal totals are a draw. Use the instructions to see which actions move you towards it. Start with a deliberate move.
A walkthrough of the rules
- 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.
The controls to know
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Use the control method described here for this activity. Use the visible help when you are unsure of the next input.
An example to follow
Black–white–empty can become black–black–black when Black plays in the empty square. Your next round may have a different position, so inspect it before acting. Take a moment to compare.
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. Compare the worked example with your own position. Use the reasoning, not an answer copied from a different board.
Read these answers for extra help
For this browser game, 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.
While reading the Guide, how do I control Reversi?
For clarity: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
While reading the Guide, what example helps explain Reversi?
Keep this in mind: Black–white–empty can become black–black–black when Black plays in the empty square.
When I return, what should I watch out for in Reversi?
A placement must flip at least one opposing disc; simply placing beside your own discs is not enough.
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.
For a quick reminder, 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.
While learning, where should I start with Reversi?
For clarity: Black moves first. Highlighted cells show legal placements.
For my first round, do I need an account or a payment for Reversi?
The key detail is this: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.
For a quick reminder, how can I find Reversi again?
For clarity: 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?
For clarity: 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.