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The Reversi playbook

A focus for your next round

Choose one rule to keep in mind for this round. Apply it consistently rather than guessing what another version might allow. 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. Use the instructions to see which actions move you towards it. Review the board or playing area as it changes.

How a round unfolds

  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.

Getting comfortable with the controls

Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch. Keep the playing area visible while using these controls. Make sure you are interacting with the game rather than the surrounding page.

Try this 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. Keep the controls nearby.

Watch out for this

A placement must flip at least one opposing disc; simply placing beside your own discs is not enough. Read the feedback to see why an action did not have the expected result. Keep the stated aim separate from side details such as animation or appearance. Progress is measured by the game’s own completion or scoring rules.

Questions about this game

As a new player, what is the goal of Reversi?

Keep this in mind: When neither player has a legal move, the player with more discs on the board wins; equal totals are a draw.

As a new player, how do I control Reversi?

Here is the relevant explanation: Use the on-screen controls with a mouse or touch.

When I return, what example helps explain Reversi?

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

For my first round, what should I watch out for in Reversi?

Here is the relevant explanation: 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?

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

Which play mode does Reversi use?

For clarity: 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?

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

While reading the Guide, 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.

On this playing page, how do I report an issue with Reversi?

Here is the relevant explanation: 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.