Bastion
LQ: 9.15
Recommended Age: 10+
Skills Used: Planning, Working Memory, Mathematics, Reading
Mindsweeper is a puzzle game that takes place in the future. The world faces a deadly virus, but a doctor found the cure for it just before getting infected herself. Now the player is acting as a character that is exploring the doctor’s memories in the hopes of finding the formula for the cure. To do this, the player explores one memory at a time, figures out puzzles, and finds hidden postcards.
The game provides the first two chapters (or six levels) for free. Mindsweeper has in-game ads and purchases, including additional levels. The ESRB rated it E10+ for infrequent or mild cartoon or fantasy violence. LW4K stands by this rating.
Mindsweeper helps kids practice and improve the following skills:
Adapting and adjusting to changing conditions and expectations.
To be successful at any puzzle game, the player must use their flexibility skills to adapt to challenges and try new things. Even if they have seen a padlock early in the game, finding another padlock does not mean they will solve the puzzle the same way. They may have to look for clues in a different way, may have to break or translate a code before they can open the lock, or find a key instead. Staying flexible is the only way to complete every puzzle and find every postcard.
Recalling and retaining information in our mind while working.
Another important thinking skill in puzzle games like Mindsweeper is the working memory. The player has to remember clues given by in-game people, remember where they have seen interactive locations in the game, and remember which equipment or clues they have found. If the player doesn’t work to improve forgetfulness, follow directions, and maintain a good visual map of the level, they will be unable to find and complete all the puzzles and move on to the next level.
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