Importance

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Abstract

Electronics and a playing method stimulate abstract spatil-relations ability, particularly memory of abstract space, in youngsters--without requiring them to know or spell game commands, or to find keys on a typewriter-like keyboard. The game exploits the competitive instinct by rewarding ability to recall complex geometric abstractions, while yet encouraging play by those who lack that ability. Dedicated manual inputs are used by each player to enter moves--in the pure form of directions in which the player wishes to go. An audio speaker signals which player's move it is, and whether each attempted move is valid. A digital microprocessor is used to define a maze and each player's position in it, and to receive moves from the directional inputs, and to operate the speaker in reply to attempted moves. The processor has no functional connection with any device for displaying a direct pictorial representation of any part of the maze, and indeed no such direct picture is electronically developed or shown. The game does include, however, a playing board on which players can in effect map their own attempts to move through part of the maze--if they are willing to let other players see their maps.

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First Claim