A checkmath board game box with red and blue numbered circles scattered across its surface and a small yellow sticker on the top right promoting a competition.
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Checkmath (1968)

ByMichail

Checkmath

Checkmath is a board game in which numbered counters are placed on opposite sides of a ten-by-ten squared board also marked with numbers, and players take turns moving the counters to capture their opponent’s pieces. The game is somewhat similar to chess, but most methods of capture depend on the numbers inscribed on each piece. The game was used as an educational tool that teachers could introduce while teaching arithmetic as part of the quadrivium to those in Western Europe who received a classical education during the medieval period. Little is known about the origin of the game, and medieval writers attributed it to Pythagoras, but no trace of it has been discovered in Greek literature.

Why is Checkmath Popular?

Checkmath is significant because it was used as an educational tool to teach arithmetic during the medieval period. It is also an interesting game that combines strategy and math skills, making it a fun and challenging game for players of all ages.

Game Components of Checkmath

  • A ten-by-ten squared board marked with numbers
  • Numbered counters (orange and green checkers)
  • Game rules and instructions

    How To Setup Checkmath

    To set up the game, the player with the orange checkers sits in front of the 1-10 side of the board, while the player with the green checkers sits in front of the 91-100 side. The board is laid out with numbered spaces, and players place their counters on opposite sides.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Game Mechanics: Players take turns rolling dice or drawing cards to determine how many spaces they can move their counters.
  • Objective: The goal is to capture the opponent’s pieces by landing on spaces occupied by their counters.
  • Math Integration: Players must perform basic math operations to determine the moves, making it an educational tool.

    Player Experience

    Checkmath is intended to be an educational game, focusing on enhancing math skills, particularly for younger children. However, it has received mixed reviews for its entertainment value. Eric Solomon, in a review for *Games International* magazine, gave it 2 stars out of 5, stating that while it might be useful for young children, it becomes boring quickly[2ा।

    Pros

  • Educational Value: Helps children practice basic math operations.
  • Simple Setup: Easy to understand and set up.
  • Interactive Learning: Engages children in a competitive environment to learn math.

    Cons

  • Limited Engagement: Boring for players above the age of seven.
  • Repetitive Gameplay: Can become monotonous after several plays.

    Personal Thoughts on Checkmath

    Checkmath is best suited for young children, particularly those in the early years of elementary school, as it provides a hands-on way to learn and practice basic math skills. While it may not be the most exciting game for older children or adults, it serves its educational purpose effectively for its target age group. However, its use beyond the age of seven might be more as a punitive measure than an enjoyable activity.

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    • Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

    Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
    Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl