COUNTER CHALLENGE REVIEW

A competitive game for two ( or possible two teams ) based loosely upon the game of draughts only here counters have values and the direction of moves are determined by the square upon which they start.

Scores are toted up depending upon the relative values of the counters ( captor and captured ) using simple arithmetic (the rules of which can be varied depending upon the ability of the child and learning experience being sought ). The score of an individual capture can vary enormously from around 20 or so to perhaps 150. So moves must be thought out.

The game requires a high degree of strategic thinking and patience in setting up an attack as well as maintaining a good defence.

I felt that 11 would be a more realistic lower age limit for the game rather than 8 but then an 8 year old with a good grasp of maths and an interest in such games may find it fun and educational. Adults too with an interest in unusual strategy games may find it of interest.

It would particularly suit children and families who are particularly keen on puzzles,maths problems and board games like chess, draughts and backgammon.

I tried it out with a few volunteer children and found the game a little puzzling at first , but we eventually sorted out how it works and quite enjoyed the game. Stopping the game to work out new scores did tend to break the flow but it held interest. Personally I found the game intriguing.

Author—Michael Fortune-Wood www.home-education.org