999 game

The 999 game is a simple mathematical game where players take turns subtracting numbers from a starting total of 999. Here's how it typically works: ### Rules of the 999 Game: 1. Starting Number: The game begins with 999. 2. Players: Usually played by two players alternating turns. 3. Moves: On each turn, a player subtracts a number from the current total. - The number subtracted must be between 1 and 9 (inclusive). 4. Winning Condition: The player who reduces the total to exactly 0 wins the game. ### Example Gameplay: - Player 1: Subtracts 5 999 - 5 = 994 - Player 2: Subtracts 7 994 - 7 = 987 - Player 1: Subtracts 3 987 - 3 = 984 - ... - Eventually, one player lands exactly on 0 and wins. ### Winning Strategy: The game is similar to Nim and can be won with optimal play. The key is to leave your opponent with multiples of 10 (e.g., 990, 980, 970, etc.). - If you can make the total 990 after your move, you can force a win by always adjusting the subtraction to reach the next lower multiple of 10. - For example: - If the opponent subtracts 4 (making 999 995), you subtract 5 to reach 990. - Then, whatever they subtract (1-9), you subtract (10 - their move) to keep reducing to the next multiple of 10 (980, 970, etc.). ### Who Has the Advantage? - If both players play optimally, Player 1 (the first mover) can always win by starting with 9 (999 990) and following the strategy above. Would you like a simulation or practice round?