You can use a chess or checkers board if you do not have an Othello board.
Distribute the remaining discs evenly between you and your opponent. Each player should have 30 of the remaining discs.
In other words, set up the board as usual, but place 1 of the inexperienced player’s discs into each corner of the board to give them a 4 point lead. These discs cannot be flipped over, so it will make for a fairer game. [4] X Research source Do not place any additional pieces on the board beyond the ones you add to give the inexperienced player an advantage.
For example, if the opponent has a disc next to 1 of your discs in a vertical row, then place a disc on the open side of their disc in the same row to outflank your opponent’s disc.
For example, if the disc was white before it was outflanked, then turn it to the black side after it is outflanked.
Remember that the row can be horizontal, diagonal or vertical.
If a legal move is available, you may not forfeit your turn, even if it would be advantageous to do so. [10] X Research source
Avoid playing discs in the spaces immediately next to the extreme corners or next to the edge rows whenever possible, as this gives your opponent the chance to outflank you and gain the corner position. [12] X Research source
For example, if your opponent has played all 30 of their discs and you have 4 left, then give them 1 if they can make a legal move.
For example, if you can place a disc in a corner, but your opponent is unable to do so, then hang onto this move and do something else with your turn instead.
For example, if there is a move available to you that would allow you to flip 4 discs and a move that would allow you to flip 2 discs, take the 2 disc move.
For example, instead of only placing discs along an open edge, place discs on the edge, on the inside of the board, and in corners when possible.
For example, if black has 23 discs on the board and white has 20 discs on the board, then black is the winner.
Each player will need their own timer to stop and start for this option. You may choose a time limit that appeals to you and your opponent. For example, World championship rules typically give each player a total of 30 minutes to make all of their moves. This time is reduced after each turn until a player runs out of time or the game is over. However, you can set a time limit as low as 5 minutes per player if you prefer faster games.
