SafekipediaA mathematical game is a game whose rules, strategies, and outcomes are defined by precise mathematical rules, strategies, and measurable outcomes. Often, such games have simple rules and match procedures, such as tic-tac-toe and dots and boxes. Even though the rules of games like Mancala are relatively basic, they can be rigorously analyzed through the lens of combinatorial game theory.
Mathematical games differ from mathematical puzzles because puzzles usually need specific math knowledge to solve, while games do not require deep math skills to play. The math behind these games is often hidden and not obvious to players who haven’t studied the statistics or math involved.
Studying the math of a game is often more useful than actually playing it. By looking at the rules, we can create equations or formulas to find winning strategies or determine if the game has a solution.
These games can also help children learn basic math skills like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division in a fun and engaging way. They are of great interest in the field of recreational mathematics.
List of games
Some games may seem simple, but they can involve hidden chances or strategies. For example, card games with shuffling or hidden cards have an element of chance, even if they seem like pure strategy.
Here are some examples of mathematical games:
Lattice board
- Angels and Devils
- Arimaa
- Checkers (English draughts)
- Chess
- Chomp
- Dodgem
- Domineering
- Dots and boxes
- Go
- Gomoku
- Hex
- Hexapawn
- L game
- Othello
- Pente
- Philosopher's football
- Rhythmomachy
- Tak
- Tic-tac-toe
Non-lattice boards and other games
Chance involved or imperfect information
- (/wiki/24_(puzzle))
- Prisoner's dilemma
This article is a child-friendly adaptation of the Wikipedia article on Mathematical game, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.