Bastion
LQ: 9.15
Recommended Age: 10+
Skills Used: Planning, Working Memory, Mathematics, Reading
Bloom Box is a puzzle game in which players try to create chain reactions to destroy a series of boxes and collect three stars. While the gameplay is simple to learn, levels become increasingly more challenging and thought provoking as players progress. The game screen consists of breakable boxes which, when destroyed, spread blooming flowers. Different colored boxes create different blooming patterns and players are tasked with utilizing these patterns in order to create a single continuous chain reaction in which all boxes on the screen are destroyed and three stars are collected. Players cannot choose where the chain reaction will begin and must therefore develop a strategy which avoids random obstacles and capitalizes on the tools provided by the game in each level. This game contains no inappropriate or offensive material, but may be too difficult for some younger players due to the complex nature of the puzzles. Bloom Box is available in both free and paid versions and is recommended for any player ages 6 and up.
Teachers: check out the classroom guide!
Adapting and adjusting to changing conditions and expectations.
Using the same basic premise, players must be able to solve hundreds of unique puzzle scenarios. Each level utilizes the same tools and mechanics, however the layout, obstacles, and variety of tools provided require players to develop and use a new strategy each time. Being able to think outside of the "box" can greatly benefit players who are forced to use their tools in new and increasingly complex ways as the game progresses. Strategies that were successful in previous levels may be unavailable or unsuccessful in later levels forcing users to reassess their strategies and develop new solutions to difficult problems. Players who are able to adapt and create viable strategies that evolve with the gameplay will often be more successful and score higher than those who cannot.
Planning
Developing a systematic approach for setting and achieving goals.
Bloom Box requires players to build their boxes so that when the first box is destroyed all other boxes are subsequently destroyed in a chain reaction. Players cannot choose the start point for the reaction and must consider movable boxes, immovable boxes, obstacles, and collectable stars into their layout before starting the chain reaction. Though players may reset levels and try again, each chain reaction allows a single attempt. Because once the reaction is started it is unable to be stopped, players must plan and consider their strategies carefully in advance. Taking time to plan and assess the best locations in which to place their assets, double check their work, and create an optimal layout can increase scores and efficiency while decreasing frustration. Players will exercise the Planning thinking skill when developing new strategies for increasingly difficult and unique levels through Bloom Box.
All membership plans come with full access to our entire suite of tools learning guides, and resources. Here are a few of the ones we think you’ll like the most: