On February 8, 2025, Luis Otavio, one of the minds behind Hanoi Studios, took a significant step in showcasing the potential of inclusive gaming. He headed to Centro de Apoio e Reforço Escolar (CARE) in Santo Andre, Brazil, to present their latest creation, Hanoi Puzzles: Solid Match, as a tool tailored for neurodivergent children. This was not just a standard introduction; it was about both the digital Xbox Play Anywhere version and the physical board game edition of Hanoi Puzzles: Solid Match.
Fernanda Mombelli, who runs the institution and is an expert in neuropsychopedagogy, can’t stress enough the benefits early identification of a child’s diverse needs brings. She points out that inclusive games are like a breath of fresh air for students, nurturing core skills through interactive play.
Hanoi Puzzles: Solid Match, although a newcomer to its genre, excels in enhancing attention, concentration, memory, focus, and planning capabilities. These are vital areas where many neurodivergent individuals seek improvement.
The game is particularly refreshing because it offers a gentle challenge. There are no set limits on the number of moves per level, inviting players to explore solutions freely and at their own pace. Alan Nobre, a pedagogue and physical educator, had some thoughts to share: “In early childhood education, performance isn’t the priority. What we aim for is joy because a happy child is one that learns and grows. That’s our ultimate goal.”
An insightful observation at CARE revealed the game’s impact in real time. A student managing ADHD, anxiety, stuttering, and social interactions tried out the game. Fernanda watched and took notes: “With just a bit of guidance, they quickly grasped the basic objectives and did splendidly in the early stages. As the challenges grew tougher, their anxiety surfaced, and stuttering became more pronounced. So, we paused. Encouraging them to breathe deeply and consider their options before making a move, they soon found their rhythm again and made impressive strides in the intermediate stages.”
Further engagement with the board game version in a team-based setting with two educators stirred enthusiasm. The student’s enjoyment was palpable, and it translated into laughter and eagerness to play more often. This sense of belonging and accomplishment spanned not just their gaming prowess but extended to social skills, attention, and concentration. It was a proud moment for everyone involved.
Reflecting on these experiences, Luis Otavio expressed his aspirations for inclusive gaming: “I’m eager to craft more games with inclusivity in mind and spread this impact across more educational institutions throughout Brazil.”
For families wanting to dive deeper into resources and tips for gaming, Xbox offers a wealth of information at xbox.com/family. The platform covers everything from privacy tools to the Xbox Family Settings app.
Don’t miss out on Hanoi Puzzles: Solid Match, available right now on Xbox and PC as part of the Xbox Play Anywhere series, ensuring that your progress is seamlessly saved and transferred. With Hanoi Puzzles: Solid Match, you’re in for a delightful blend of challenging gameplay set in a serene atmosphere, drawing from the classic Tower of Hanoi puzzle. With its unique twist, you’ll find yourself stacking colored pieces on a hexagonal board, unlocking paths and advancing through the stages. All this is offered at just $4.99, a small price for a meaningful journey.
