Math Games » Multiplication Games, Math Puzzles » The Multiplication Game
Math Games » Multiplication Games, Math Puzzles » The Multiplication Game
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If you are looking for math games that your child can have fun with, if you want a math game that will hone your child's multiplication skills, then The Multiplication Game is one that you should check out.
The objective of the game couldn't be more straightforward. You are given a 6 by 6 square... having 36 squares in total. Each square has a number in it. What you have to do to beat the game is to mark 4 squares in a row. It doesn't matter if the squares are placed horizontally, diagonally, or vertically. As long as 4 squares are marked, you win the game. Now here's the thing: you are playing against the computer... and this fella sure knows what he's doing. He will thwart your plans while creating chances for himself. It's like tic-tac-toe... except that you are playing with a larger board; with numbers instead of x's and o's; and you have to mark 4 squares instead of three.
So, now we get to the question: how do you color the numbers in the board? Here's how: by moving one of the markers below. The marked numbers below will be multiplied and it should produce a factor... a number that is on the board above. Remember, you can only move one. The good thing here is that the computer moves first. What's so good about it?
Well, for one thing, he cannot produce a factor with a single number only! Since you get to make the second move, that means you are the first who gets to mark a number on the 6 by 6 board. The downside, though, is that you telegraph your intentions... you give a hint as to where you want to form your row of 4 colored numbers and squares. That said, I would HIGHLY advise you to go for that number that's near the center of the board.
By doing so, you are keeping your options open... your next move would be hard to guess. You are flexible. You can branch out and color the square above your first marked number. Perhaps you can color or mark the one directly below it or next to it diagonally. By choosing that number near the middle of the board, you have more options as opposed to going for the numbers in the corners, first, or last row.
One important thing I would like to point out: always keep an eye on what the computer is doing. The last thing you want to do is to lose the game because you didn't try to stop your opponent from coloring four squares in a row when you still can. It's called prophylaxis chess and it applies here.
Anyway, you want to pursue your plan and not hang about it. BUT at the same time, you don't want to let your opponent achieve his especially if he can get there faster than you. Once you keep this thing in mind, combined with the fact that you get to grab a square first and keep it flexible, beating the game should be very easy.
Well, I guess that's about everything I have to impart about this math game and its strategy. Kids and adults alike could have fun with this... and of course, it's a good way to keep your multiplication skills in tip-top shape.