The three elements to choosing a mind puzzle

June 28, 2022

So, you’re looking to buy a logic game (mind puzzle) but not sure where to start? three key elements to choosing a mind puzzle

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the range that’s available. How can you make the best choice?

When I'm asked, "What is the best mind puzzle?", there’s no simple answer. But, after breaking it down a bit, it’ll be easier to choose the right game for you.

When helping people choose a logic game, there are three key elements I discuss. If you'd like to talk through your circumstance, please let me know on the contact form. I love this stuff.

Let’s get started.

Who is the logic puzzle for?

Is it for you or a gift for someone else? Is the lucky recipient experienced with logic games or a first-timer? Are you looking for a game for a group of different people?

Many of these games have graded challenges that increase in difficulty. The games have varying difficulty ranges. For some games and players even the harder challenges could be too easy but for others they'll be spot on.

All these games need the manipulation and placing of pieces.

Games like Shooting Stars and Bee Genius have larger pieces and are easy to use. Other games (e.g. IQ Twist and Cube Puzzler Pro) need fine motor skills and manual dexterity.

Where will they play it?

Mind puzzles are great for many different environments.

Is it something to play while commuting to work?
Or a for change of activity while having a cup of coffee or tea?
Is it for travel entertainment for a child?
Or to play while sitting on the floor in the sunshine?

These things will determine whether you need a game that is compact or needs a little more space. If it’s for on-the-go, you’ll want one that packs up securely. Some puzzles have pieces that lock in place, others have moving pieces. Nobody wants to watch their ball bearing game piece roll down the bus aisle.

Are you looking to build a particular skill?

Logic games build core skills.

Some focus on planning skills. For these you'll be working on order of steps needed to achieve a goal.

Others require visualisation of how shapes go together. (See spatial reasoning puzzles).

In a deductive reasoning game you’ll use information you know to work out things you don't know yet.

A little note about age ranges

These games usually specify an age range on the box. I find it to be weird because it’s so person specific. It doesn't take into account individual ability and learning styles. For example, my experienced 6-year-old will solve puzzles that my 40-year-old friends find challenging. These mind puzzles build and train skills and so age isn't always a determinant for skill.

That said, some of the game themes are more childlike than others.