Show most kids a physics problem and their eyes glaze over. But if you put physics problems in the form of a my talking tom hack, suddenly they’re a lot more interesting and entertaining. If you have a kid who’s into computer games, maybe getting them turned on to physics games can turn that playing time into learning time. Physics games aren’t necessarily about physics, but rather they use physics in the challenges that have to be solved during play.
Today there are loads of physics games readily available online for free. They use many of the same scenarios and character types as other computer games, and there’s nothing chore-like about playing them. If the principles of physics are built into game scenarios, then kids have to make use of them to advance in the games. And if they’re really into the game, then they’ll learn what they need to learn to advance. A good physics game not only tests knowledge of basic principles of physics, but also helps kids with critical thinking, strategy, and problem solving skills.
Physics games come in just about every genre. There are balancing games, demolition and construction games, and games where objects have to be stacked just so. All require logical thinking and strategy in order to advance to higher levels. And these games aren’t just for kids. Even college students who need a grasp of physics can gain some knowledge from learning how to advance in physics games. And there are plenty of people of all ages who don’t care about the physics but just play them because they’re fun. You can choose from adventure games, driving games, construction games, balancing games, and many more.
One example of a physics games is Light Bot. When you play Light Bot, you control a robot to advance it through the levels. It requires understanding of both physics and logic. The Egg is another physics games. In this game you have to get an egg into a basket by dragging around objects needed to bounce, push, and otherwise move the egg into the basket. Animal Stackers is a favorite of younger kids. The object is to stack one animal on top of all the others to create a stable stack that won’t fall down.
Balance Fury is a physics game that helps kids learn balancing. The object of Balance Fury is to drop as many blocks as possible onto a platform in such a way as to keep them from falling off. Accumetry is a simple game, but it’s good for developing an eye for measurements. In this game players use geometric shapes to test the accuracy of their eyes without using measuring instruments. A Measure of Treasure is a game where the object is to accurately weigh out gems and distribute them so that each pirate gets his fair share. Atom puts the player in the position of employee at a proton harvesting company whose job it is to deliver protons to a worm hole while avoiding black holes.