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Getting started with Reversi

One thing to notice as you play

Take enough time to read a new position. If a game has a timer, learn its controls first rather than searching for them during the round. Make the next step deliberately.

What counts as success

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. The example below illustrates a decision.

Follow these playing steps

  1. Black moves first. Highlighted cells show legal placements.
  2. Place a disc to trap one or more opponent discs in a straight line.
  3. Every trapped line from that placement is flipped.
  4. If a player has no legal move, the turn automatically passes.

Your inputs

Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Keep the playing area visible while using these controls. Check any mode label before starting.

Learn from a sample situation

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. Look for the relevant detail.

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.

Common questions

While learning, what is the goal of Reversi?

Here is the relevant explanation: When neither player has a legal move, the player with more discs on the board wins; equal totals are a draw.

How do I control Reversi?

Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.

Before I begin, what example helps explain Reversi?

Black–white–empty can become black–black–black when Black plays in the empty square.

While reading the Guide, 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 this browser game, what format does Reversi offer?

For clarity: Play using the same-device two players mode shown on this page. Read the controls before starting a new round.

For this browser game, 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.

For my first round, where should I start with Reversi?

Black moves first. Highlighted cells show legal placements.

For my first round, do I need an account or a payment for Reversi?

No player account or payment is needed. Game scores are recreational results, not cash prizes.

For this browser game, how can I find Reversi again?

The key detail is this: Use the Games list or save this game page in your browser bookmarks. The Guide is linked from the playing page.

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.