Suminus

Instructions

Welcome to Suminus! This game is inspired by nim-15, but now you can play up to nim-50 by setting your own range of values, up to 50!

In this game, two players take turns selecting numbers. Player 1 starts by selecting two numbers and then choosing either their sum or their difference. Player 2's first number is automatically set to the sum or difference chosen by Player 1. Player 2 then selects another number and chooses either their sum or difference. The objective is to force your opponent into a position where they cannot make a valid move.

How to Play

  1. Set the Range:
    • Choose the maximum number of cards you want to play with by entering a value between 3 and 50. The default range is 15 cards.
    • Click the "Set" button to apply your chosen range and begin the game.
  2. Start the Game:
    • The game starts with all the numbers from 1 up to your chosen maximum displayed as cards.
    • Player 1 begins by selecting two numbers from the available cards.
  3. Make a Move:
    • Player 1 selects two numbers and then chooses either their sum or difference.
    • Player 2's turn starts with the sum or difference chosen by Player 1. Player 2 then selects another number and chooses either the sum or difference of these two numbers.
    • The chosen sum or difference must be within the range and not already crossed out.
  4. Continue Playing:
    • Players continue taking turns, with each turn beginning with the sum or difference chosen by the previous player.
    • The game continues until one player cannot make a valid move.
  5. Win the Game:
    • The player who forces the other player into a position where they cannot make a valid move wins the game.
    • Click the "Reset Game" button to start a new round.

Rules

  • Two players take turns selecting numbers from the range set at the beginning of the game (default is 1 to 15).
  • On Player 1's turn, they select two numbers and calculate both the sum and the absolute difference of these numbers.
  • Player 1 chooses either the sum or difference. This result becomes Player 2's starting number for their turn.
  • On Player 2's turn, they start with the chosen result from Player 1 and select another number, calculating both the sum and the difference.
  • The player must choose to cross out either the sum or the difference, as long as it is within the range and hasn't been crossed out yet.
  • If both the sum and the difference are already crossed out or outside the range, the player loses.
  • The game ends when a player cannot make a valid move, and the other player is declared the winner.

Tips

  • Think ahead: Try to anticipate your opponent's moves and set up situations where they have limited options.
  • Choose your numbers wisely: Consider both the sum and difference carefully before making your choice.
  • Avoid creating a situation where both the sum and difference could lead to a dead-end for you in future turns.
  • Practice different starting ranges to develop strategies for both smaller and larger sets of numbers.
  • Play defensively: Sometimes it’s better to play conservatively and not open up too many options for your opponent.
  • Remember, the goal is to be the last player able to make a valid move, so always think about the long-term implications of each choice.

Enjoy Suminus and sharpen your strategic thinking skills!