THE PLAYBOOK · FQ12349
Reversi: rules and examples
Try Reversi at your own pace and keep its objective in view. When neither player has a legal move, the player with more discs on the board wins; equal totals are a draw. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions. Begin with the same-device two players mode shown on the page. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls.
Build familiarity through play
Choose one rule to keep in mind for this round. Apply it consistently rather than guessing what another version might allow. 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. Try to explain the aim in your own words.
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.
Using the playing area
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Keep the playing area visible while using these controls. Return to the rules if the result is unexpected.
An example before you play
Black–white–empty can become black–black–black when Black plays in the empty square. Focus on why the action is allowed, not only its outcome. Consider the next action carefully.
A useful caution
A placement must flip at least one opposing disc; simply placing beside your own discs is not enough. Check the rule before repeating the action. Before your first action, say what you are trying to achieve. Then compare the result with the goal.
More answers before you play
For my first round, what is the goal of Reversi?
For clarity: 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?
Here is the relevant explanation: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
For a quick reminder, 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?
For clarity: A placement must flip at least one opposing disc; simply placing beside your own discs is not enough.
For a quick reminder, what format does Reversi offer?
Here is the relevant explanation: 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?
The mode on this page is Same-device two players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.