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Reversi: what to know before playing

Try a more deliberate round

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.

The objective of a round

When neither player has a legal move, the player with more discs on the board wins; equal totals are a draw. The feedback beside the game helps you follow the round. Return to the instructions when a step is unclear.

How to proceed

  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. Keep the playing area visible while using these controls. Make sure you are interacting with the game rather than the surrounding page.

See how the rules apply

Black–white–empty can become black–black–black when Black plays in the empty square. Use the example as a guide rather than a substitute for reading your board. Notice the change in the playing area.

A useful caution

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.

Answers about the rules and controls

For a quick reminder, what is the goal of Reversi?

Keep this in mind: 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.

When I return, what example helps explain Reversi?

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

As a new player, what should I watch out for in Reversi?

Here is the relevant explanation: A placement must flip at least one opposing disc; simply placing beside your own discs is not enough.

While reading the Guide, 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.

As a new player, 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.

Before I begin, where should I start with Reversi?

For clarity: Black moves first. Highlighted cells show legal placements.

When I return, do I need an account or a payment for Reversi?

Here is the relevant explanation: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.

On this playing page, how can I find Reversi again?

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

For this browser game, how do I report an issue with Reversi?

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.