Othello Rules (Reversi)
Beginner-friendly guide with visual examples and tips
Quick Start (60 seconds)
- Othello (also called Reversi) is played on an 8x8 board with black and white discs.
- Black moves first. You must place a disc that flips at least one opponent disc.
- Flips happen in straight lines: horizontal, vertical, or diagonal.
- If you have no legal move, you pass.
- The game ends when the board is full or both players pass; most discs wins.
How to Play Othello
1. Setup
Place four discs in the center with matching colors on the diagonal. Black goes first.
- Use a standard 8x8 board.
- Each player uses one color of disc.
2. Legal Moves & Flipping
A legal move must bracket at least one opponent disc in a straight line.
- You can flip in multiple directions with one move.
- Only discs directly sandwiched are flipped.
3. Passing
If you have no legal move, you must pass and your opponent plays again.
- Passing is mandatory, not optional.
4. Game End & Scoring
The game ends when the board is full or both players pass.
- Count discs at the end; the higher total wins.
- A tie is a draw.
Visual Examples
Initial Setup
This is the standard opening position on an 8x8 board.
Black starts. Colors are diagonal.
Legal Move Example
A move is legal only if it flips at least one disc.
Black plays C4 to flip D4.
Beginner Tips That Win Games
- Corners are safest because they cannot be flipped.
- Edges are strong after a corner is secured; avoid giving corners away.
- Mobility matters: keep your options open and restrict your opponent.
- Early game: avoid flipping too many discs; focus on position.
- Endgame: count empty squares and plan the last move.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
X-squares (diagonal next to an empty corner)
Squares like B2, G2, B7, and G7 often give away the corner.
C-squares (edge next to an empty corner)
Squares like A2, B1, H2, and G1 can also concede the corner.
Greedy flipping early
Taking many discs early often gives your opponent more legal moves.
Endgame Basics
- Try to move last in each remaining region (parity).
- Grow stable discs from corners along the edges.
- Count remaining moves before committing to a line.
FAQ
Is Othello the same as Reversi?
Yes. Othello is the branded name; the rules are the same.
Can I pass anytime?
No. You may pass only when you have no legal move.
Do I have to flip discs?
Yes. A legal move must flip at least one opponent disc.
When does the game end?
When the board is full or both players pass.
What if it is a tie?
A tie is a draw.
Ready to play?
Start a quick match or turn on hints to learn from every move.