THE PLAYBOOK · HTSIFA
How to play Reversi
Open Reversi, check the instructions and begin a round. 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. Compare the starting position with the example in the Guide. Keep the game area visible while you use its controls.
Focus on one rule
Choose one rule to keep in mind for this round. Apply it consistently rather than guessing what another version might allow. Notice the feedback after each input.
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. Check the rules when you are unsure.
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. Keep the playing area visible while using these controls. Read the example below alongside these instructions.
A useful example
Black–white–empty can become black–black–black when Black plays in the empty square. Apply the same reasoning to the position in your own round. Read the matching step again.
Watch out for this
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. Compare the worked example with your own position. Use the reasoning, not an answer copied from a different board.
Common questions
For a quick reminder, 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 my first round, how do I control Reversi?
The key detail is this: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
While learning, what example helps explain Reversi?
Black–white–empty can become black–black–black when Black plays in the empty square.
Before I begin, 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.
For this browser game, 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.
As a new player, 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.