Common Sense Media Review
Unique math game lacks instruction, may leave kids puzzled.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 9+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Download
Videos and Photos
The Unknown Number: Puzzle Math Arcade Game
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's It About?
In THE UNKNOWN NUMBER: PUZZLE MATH ARCADE GAME, the puzzles are organized into two main themes: Forest and Mountain. Within each theme, there are 40 levels, each of which needs to be cleared in order to unlock the next one. Kids can earn up to three stars per level depending on how many numbered blocks they eliminate. Physically creating the equations is easy -- just tap or swipe the numbered blocks in order -- but clearing the board can be tricky. For example, in early rounds, kids use three numbered blocks to create addition equations like 2 + 1 = 3. In later rounds, they use several numbered blocks to create equivalent equations with more than one operation like 11 + 4 = 3 x 5, and the arrangement of the blocks gets more complicated as well. A stats screen allows kids to view progress including number of stars earned, puzzles completed, successful equations, and longest equation.
Is It Any Good?
Kids will have fun completing the puzzles, but they won't get much instructional guidance, so concrete learning could take a back seat. For example, it might be hard for kids to progress from simple addition equations to more complex, multi-operational equations with negative numbers. Also, the logistics of the game change slightly with each level; reminding players of the basic strategy through a help button might ease possible frustration.The game could be greatly improved by adding some detailed instructional screens before each new level and hints that are accessible while kids play.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how math equations are used in every-day situations. Ask kids to give examples of when they might use equations.
Encourage kids to solve math problems in multiple ways to encourage flexible thinking.
App Details
- Devices : iPhone , iPod Touch , iPad
- Subjects : Math : addition , arithmetic , equations , multiplication , subtraction
- Skills : Thinking & Reasoning : logic , part-whole relationships , solving puzzles , strategy
- Pricing structure : Paid
- Release date : October 6, 2015
- Genre : Education
- Publisher : Keith Patterson
- Version : 1.1
- Minimum software requirements : iOS 6.0 or later
- Last updated : November 11, 2020
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
Suggest an Update
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate