Bastion
LQ: 9.15
Recommended Age: 10+
Skills Used: Planning, Working Memory, Mathematics, Reading
Mazement is a type of adventure/puzzle game where users use their smartphones or tablets to guide a ball through a labyrinth course. By turning their devices users control the speed, momentum and direction of a ball. Players guide the ball through a maze with unpredictable twists and turns, gaps, sharp edges, and jumps (much like Temple Run). Except the round ends in Mazement — it’s not an endless racer. Users must collect coins, refrain from falling off the edge, and move through the course quickly if they want a score of five stars. A free version off the game, though considerably lite, offers a few levels, which essentially are nothing more than a brief introduction to the game. The $1.99 paid version feature over 30 level and new and interesting challenges. There is no inappropriate content in Mazement, making it suitable for children ages 6 and older — and a particularly good choice for players who have been diagnoses with autism spectrum disorder.
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Because Mazement constantly forces players to adapt to each course's ever-changing terrain, players are tasked with using the flexibility thinking skill. They don't have much time to make adjustments either, especially when a quick turn is necessary to avoid falling off the map. Players need to balance speed and momentum (necessary to jump over obstacles and break barriers) with a control. Players who move the ball too slowly will be unable to advance throughout the course. Conversely, players who roll the ball too fast will not be able to react as the course changes -- especially the first time playing a new map. Therefore, it's important to find that balance in order for players to make on-the-fly directional changes, allowing them to successfully navigate the course, collection coins, and reaching the end of the map.
Flexibility and Self-Control often go hand in hand. But more important than demonstrating self-control in Mazement, is having a strong working memory. Because some of the maps are confusing and complex, players might need to retry a few times before they can even achieve one or two stars. The memory becomes increasingly important, as players need to know all aspects of each map -- specifically sections where it is easy to fall off. Some gaps in the course are hidden, and players must engage in a "trial and error" type of play style before they can try and achieve five stars. Therefore, players need to commit as much of the map to memory as they can. They must then apply what they have learned from observing directly to their next challenge.
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