This Game is Good for Kids Who Need Help With:

Working Memory

Recalling and retaining information while working.

In Braid, players must collect multiple puzzle pieces scattered throughout the world by manipulating time. Puzzles require players to complete complex multi-step problems by rewinding time and altering the environment around them. Each world introduces new gameplay mechanics, like the ability to rewind time, objects that are immune to being rewound, and time dilation (the slowing of time). As puzzles become more complex, the player must recall previous actions and the effects they had on the game world, memorizing what's happening in the environment around them and using that information later in the level. f

Planning

Developing a systematic approach for setting and achieving goals.

Most puzzle pieces in Braid will not be captured on the player's first attempt, as gathering a puzzle piece requires players to carefully plan their actions before taking even one step. Because each action taken by players commonly happens again, but in reverse, even the smallest movements can alter the flow of time and layout of the world itself. Players must therefore prioritize their actions and carefully determine how to reach their goal. If they do not take the time to brainstorm solutions and think ahead, they will have a very difficult time solving Braid's later puzzles and discovering the story of Tim's past.

Reading

Braid's engaging gameplay and beautifully crafted environments are matched by a deep, somewhat ambiguous story which is revealed in pieces of text introduced to players periodically throughout the journey. Before entering each world players can choose to read several short excerpts from Tim's story. Each world's mechanics reflect the context of these texts, covering topics such as forgiveness, regret, and devotion. Each passage read by will reveal new insights into Tim's troubled past, allowing readers to slowly formulate their own idea of who the characters are and why they are here. After completing Braid and unlocking the epilogue, players will be left to interpret Tim's story their own way.

ADHD

Braid is a game that requires careful planning, and can be a great tool to help children diagnosed with ADHD to exercise thoughtfulness and problem-solving. The ability to recall and apply various bits of in-game information is also needed, as the game's rules and mechanics constantly expand throughout the game. This kind of gameplay helps players practice Working Memory, a skill that can be beneficial for children dealing with the challenges of ADHD to exercise.

How to Use Braid for Children with ADHD:

• Discuss the ways Braid helps foster careful attention to detail. The game mechanics revolves around manipulating time, tasking players with paying close attention to the way the flow of time changes the environment.
• Explain that before acting, it is important for players to fully absorb the environment, taking note of the layout of the world, the placements of hazards,enemy locations and moving platforms.
• There is always a set goal to achieve in the game, from finding a key to simply crossing a cliff, but the player frequently has to stay at it for extended periods of time before figuring out how to achieve it. Explore the ways Braid allows players to achieve creative solutions, and try to connect this type of goal-directed persistence and problem solving to the real world.