Game guide · MXZTJ
Reversi: instructions and practice
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. Look at what changes after your first action. Check the rule that explains your first action. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions.
Practice beyond the first move
Compare the worked example with your own position. Use the reasoning, not an answer copied from a different board. Refer to the controls when needed.
The goal to keep in mind
When neither player has a legal move, the player with more discs on the board wins; equal totals are a draw. Read that aim before choosing your first action. Review the board or playing area as it changes.
Follow these playing steps
- 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.
Keyboard and screen controls
Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. A careful first action helps you become familiar with the layout. Make sure you are interacting with the game rather than the surrounding page.
Follow the example
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. Notice the change in the playing area.
Check this before moving on
A placement must flip at least one opposing disc; simply placing beside your own discs is not enough. Take a moment to reassess the position before continuing. Compare the worked example with your own position. Use the reasoning, not an answer copied from a different board.
Common questions
On this playing page, what is the goal of Reversi?
When neither player has a legal move, the player with more discs on the board wins; equal totals are a draw.
Before I begin, how do I control Reversi?
Keep this in mind: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
While reading the Guide, what example helps explain Reversi?
The key detail is this: Black–white–empty can become black–black–black when Black plays in the empty square.
For this browser game, what should I watch out for in Reversi?
Keep this in mind: A placement must flip at least one opposing disc; simply placing beside your own discs is not enough.
As a new player, what format does Reversi offer?
Keep this in mind: Play using the same-device two players mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.
Before I begin, 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.
When I return, where should I start with Reversi?
For clarity: Black moves first. Highlighted cells show legal placements.
For a quick reminder, do I need an account or a payment for Reversi?
Keep this in mind: No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.
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.
When I return, 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.