How to Play Reversi (Othello)

Rules and tips for Reversi, for first-time players.

How to play Reversi (Othello)

1
The game starts with two black and two white discs in the center of an 8×8 board. Black moves first.
2
You can only place a disc where it traps one or more of your opponent's discs in a straight line (horizontal, vertical or diagonal) between your new disc and another of your discs.
3
All trapped discs flip to your color. One move can flip discs in several directions at once.
4
If you have no legal move, you pass and your opponent moves again. You can't pass if you have a legal move.
5
The game ends when neither player can move. The player with more discs wins.

Tips to win

Corners can never be flipped once taken. Aim to set up moves that win a corner.
Playing diagonally next to an empty corner (the X-squares) early often hands that corner to your opponent.
In the opening and middle game, limiting your opponent's moves usually matters more than flipping many discs.
In the endgame, count carefully to the last move. A late corner or edge can swing the result.

Play Reversi →

FAQ

Is Reversi free to play?

Yes, and there's no sign-up. Play right in your browser on a phone, tablet or computer.

Can I choose how strong the computer is?

Yes, there are five levels: Beginner, Easy, Medium, Hard and Expert. Expert searches several moves ahead and plays the endgame out exactly.

Can two people play?

Yes. Choose "2 players" as the opponent and take turns on the same device.

Can I undo a move?

Yes, as many times as you like. Against the computer, undo takes you back to before your last move.

Are Reversi and Othello the same game?

They use the same 8×8 board, the same flipping rule and the same starting position. Othello is a registered trademark, so this site calls the game Reversi.

Othello is a registered trademark. puzuru is not affiliated with the trademark owner.

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