NIM Master

The NIM Master app introduces students to a simple game with a rich history and complex strategy for winning. The gameboard consists of three rows with 3, 5 and 7 beads in each row. There are two ways to play the game. The object can be to take the last bead or alternately, the object can be to force the other player to take the last bead. This app challenges the player to think about winning positions and to develop a strategy for keeping the winning position as the game is played. Playing the game involves sliding beads from the left side of the board to the right side (like an abacus or soroban). There is an option where the player can match wits with the computer. Special sound effects and synthesized speech make the game fun to use. The interactive design facilitates the development of logical thinking strategies. The gameboard is used to help students develop logical thinking skills. Beads are moved to the right by swiping. During a turn any number of beads can be moved but only from one row. The player who takes the last bead loses. Alternately, the game can be set so that the player who takes the last bead wins.