Ada Lovelace: Consulting Mathematician (2017) Board Game

Ada Lovelace: Consulting Mathematician is a solo board game released in in 2017. It pays tribute to Ada Lovelace, a mathematician and writer known for her work on Charles Babbage’s early mechanical general-purpose computer, the Analytical Engine. The game allows players to step into the shoes of Ada Lovelace as they solve mathematical puzzles and challenges.

Game Components of Ada Lovelace: Consulting Mathematician

Printable files: Includes the game board, Dice Manager, and rules.

Dice: Six six-sided dice (6 d6).

Writing utensil: For marking polyomino placements and other game states.

Paper: Two pieces of paper for the game board and Dice Manager.

How To Setup Ada Lovelace: Consulting Mathematician

Setup is straightforward and quick. Print out the game board and Dice Manager on two pieces of paper. Gather six six-sided dice and a writing utensil. The game is designed to save the game state easily, allowing you to pause and resume play as needed.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Roll-and-write mechanism: Players roll dice to determine which polyomino shapes can be placed on the board.

Polyomino placement: Place polyomino shapes to fill rooms and surround special blocks containing evidence.

Evidence collection: Collect evidence to gain special abilities.

Time constraint: The game is played over four rounds, with the goal of solving the crime before time runs out.

Objective: Score 75+ points by filling rooms, collecting evidence, and utilizing special abilities effectively.

Player Experience

Players take on the role of Ada Lovelace, tasked with solving a theft at The Archimedes’ Museum of Mathematics. The game involves strategic polyomino placement, dice rolling, and evidence collection. Each playthrough can vary due to the randomness of the dice rolls and the player’s strategic decisions. The game’s flow is well-designed, allowing players to easily manage the game state and make quick decisions.

Pros

Simple and quick setup: Almost no setup time is required.

Engaging mechanics: The combination of polyomino placement and dice rolling provides a fun and challenging experience.

High replayability: Different dice rolls and player strategies ensure varied playthroughs.

Educational element: Inspired by historical figures like Ada Lovelace, adding a touch of history and mathematics.

Cons

Limited components: Requires only paper and dice, which might be seen as lacking by some players.

Steep learning curve: Effective polyomino placement and evidence collection require strategic thinking and planning.

Luck factor: Dice rolls can significantly affect the outcome, which may frustrate some players.

Personal Thoughts on Ada Lovelace: Consulting Mathematician

This game is ideal for solo players looking for a quick, intellectually stimulating experience. It is perfect for those who enjoy puzzle-solving and strategic planning. The game’s historical theme and educational elements make it a great choice for fans of Ada Lovelace and mathematics. However, it may not be the best fit for players seeking complex, multi-player interactions or those who prefer games with more physical components. Overall, it is a clever and enjoyable game that offers a unique blend of logic and strategy.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.