Game guide · 05MC
Reversi: how a round works
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. Check the rule that explains your first action. Choose a clear next step rather than rushing through the instructions.
Practice with a purpose
After a move, check what changed. Decide which rule explains the new state before acting again. 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. Use the instructions to see which actions move you towards it. Check the rules when you are unsure.
Work through the instructions
- 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.
Getting comfortable with the 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.
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. Consider the next action carefully.
Where a round can go wrong
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. Locate the buttons and input area before beginning a long round. Use the on-screen labels to avoid an accidental restart.
Game-specific help
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.
When I return, how do I control Reversi?
For clarity: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.
For a quick reminder, what example helps explain Reversi?
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?
Keep this in mind: A placement must flip at least one opposing disc; simply placing beside your own discs is not enough.
For my first round, 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.
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?
Here is the relevant explanation: Black moves first. Highlighted cells show legal placements.
For a quick reminder, 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.
For a quick reminder, how can I find Reversi again?
Keep this in mind: Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.
While learning, how do I report an issue with Reversi?
The key detail is this: 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.