THE PLAYBOOK · IHAHOOO
How to play Reversi
Use a short break to learn the rhythm of Reversi. When neither player has a legal move, the player with more discs on the board wins; equal totals are a draw. Check the relevant rule before repeating a move. Read the objective before making your first input. 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. An attractive position is not enough unless the goal is met. The example below illustrates a decision.
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. A careful first action helps you become familiar with the layout. Contact us with the game and device if a control does not respond.
A useful example
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. 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. Compare the situation with the worked example. When a decision goes wrong, compare it with the common mistake described below. Start again only when you intend to leave the current round.
Common questions
While learning, 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.
On this playing page, 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.
On this playing page, what should I watch out for in Reversi?
The key detail is this: 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.
While learning, which play mode does Reversi use?
Here is the relevant explanation: The mode on this page is Same-device two players. Same-device play uses one screen; this game library does not provide internet matchmaking.
