About the game
Reversi (also known as Othello) is a two-player strategy game played on an 8×8 board. You and your opponent take turns placing discs of your colour on empty squares. Any opponent discs that are "outflanked" — trapped in a straight line between your newly placed disc and another of your discs — flip to your colour.
Invented in England in the late 19th century, Reversi is a game of territory and timing. A single well-placed disc can flip an entire row and reverse the balance of the board. The game rewards long-term planning over short-term gains.
How to play
- The game starts with four discs in the centre: two black and two white in a diagonal pattern.
- Place a disc on a square that outflanks one or more of your opponent's discs in a straight line.
- All outflanked discs flip to your colour. Your opponent then takes a turn.
- The game ends when neither player can move. The player with the most discs on the board wins.
Controls
| Place disc | Click or tap an empty square |
Five beginner tips
1. Corners are king
A corner, once taken, can never be flipped. Prioritise controlling corners over gaining temporary disc advantage.
2. Avoid giving up corners
If placing a disc would allow your opponent to take a corner next turn, don't place it — even if it flips many discs.
3. Play the edges
Edge squares adjacent to corners are strong positions. Build along edges after securing a corner.
4. Fewer discs early is better
Having fewer discs in the opening means your opponent has fewer valid moves. Discourage their expansion.
5. The last move wins
Reversi is often decided by who makes the final move. Plan for the endgame, not just the current board.
Why you'll like it
Reversi is a game of dramatic reversals. A board that looks hopeless can flip entirely in one move. The strategic depth is enormous — experienced players think five or six moves ahead — but the rules are simple enough for anyone to learn in minutes.
Frequently asked questions
Is this Othello?
Reversi and Othello are the same game with minor rule differences. This version uses standard Reversi rules.
Can I play against the computer?
Yes — the AI opponent adjusts to your skill level.
Does it work on phones?
Yes. Tap a square to place your disc.
Game credit: Open-source Reversi implementation. MIT licence by fellowgeek.