Codemaster

In the box:
• 1 Codemaster gameboard with storage and code shield
• 108 Coding pegs in 6 colours
• 60 Key Pegs in red and white
• Includes Afrikaans and English play instructions
• Suitable for 2 players

Logical and critical thinking

• Deductive reasoning: This is the core skill developed by Codemaster. Based on the feedback you receive after each guess, you must systematically eliminate incorrect colour and position combinations until only the correct code remains.
• Hypothesis testing: With each guess, you are testing a hypothesis about the code. For instance, if you guess "blue-blue-green-green" and get one "correct colour, wrong position" hint, you've generated data to test in your next turn. You can then change only one variable to further isolate the truth.
• Analytical skills: You need to analyze the feedback from every guess in combination with previous attempts. A seemingly small clue, when considered with the history of your guesses, can reveal critical information.
• Pattern recognition: As you make guesses, you look for patterns in the feedback. For example, if a specific colour consistently gives a hint, you know it is part of the code, and your task becomes one of determining its correct position.

Strategic planning and problem-solving

• Strategic thinking: A beginner might guess randomly, but a skilled player employs a deliberate strategy, such as testing for specific colours or combinations in the early rounds. The game rewards long-term strategic thinking over lucky, ad-hoc guesses.
• Problem-solving: The game is a series of small problem-solving challenges. What is the most informative next guess? How can you get the most out of the limited information provided? Players must constantly problem-solve to crack the code in the fewest number of turns.
• Adaptability: The most successful players are able to adapt their strategy as new information becomes available. You can't stick to a rigid plan if the feedback from your guesses suggests a different approach is necessary.

General cognitive skills

• Focus and concentration: With over 1,000 possible code combinations, Codemaster requires intense focus and concentration. One small misinterpretation of a clue can send you down the wrong path.
• Memory: While not as central as logic, you must remember your previous guesses and the corresponding feedback to build a complete picture of the possibilities.
• Experimental design: In scientific teaching, the game is used to demonstrate how proper experimental design is crucial. It shows that a well-thought-out "experiment" (a guess) can yield more useful information than a random one.