Code Master Game Review

Programming Logic Game Ignite Your Mind Single player ages 8 and up

Computers are everywhere—literally. And there is a push for children to learn programming skills from an early age—for obvious reasons. Programming, however, can be, well, boring, overwhelming and downright frustrating. So the key is to make it fun and engaging. Today, we’ll have a look at a game that fits this. Code Master is a puzzle game that gets players think like a computer.

Before we start, I should mention that I, myself, am the furthest thing from a programmer. I’m much more of a software girl than programming. And, if I’m being honest, I prefer off-screen gaming. However, I can’t deny the importance of programming.

Some other coding-like games are Mastermind, Codenames and Dog Pile.

Code Master Premise

The game is setup similar to a video game. You have an avatar that is working its way through the levels of the game and trying to collect crystals as it goes.

Code Master’s Parts

First, there are  a plastic avatar, a portal and crystals. Next, you have three booklets. One is the instructions, one is the game board and one is the part where you put in our code. Last, are the tokens. These are the parts that tell your avatar where to move on the game board.

Setting Up Code Master

First, there are 60 levels in the game. Each level is set up differently. On the game board, you see what page in the code book to use and which tokens you get to use. It also tell you where to place your avatar, portal and any crystals. Each game board has 6 levels on it with increasing difficulty.

How to Play Code Master

To start, you need to gather all the items for the level that you’re playing. Next, follow the directions as to where the pieces go and which code page to use.  Each level is unique and has different parts.

Now, you need to put the tokens on the code page for your avatar to follow. Then, you move the avatar according to the program you made. The game board has colored lines on it that you travel along according to what you placed on the code. If you reach all the goals of the level and the portal, you can move to the next level of Code master. On the other hand, if you didn’t archive the goals, you need to start over and work out a different program.

Special Moves

There are lines on the Code Master game boards that have special moves. First, there is the loop which has you moving in a loop to end up back on the spot you started. Next, there are the one directions lines.

Last, there are spaces that has orange and purple men beside them. For certain games, you have yes no questions that ask about them. The question will ask if the space you’re on has either the orange or purple man beside it, depending on the answer, your avatar moves in different directions.

There are also tokens that ask if you have the correct amount of crystals collected. Again, depending if you answer yes or no dictates the direction of movement.

Winning Code Master

This is a unique game as that you keep playing each level until you “win” it or complete it. Code Master is more of an activity than a game, with the look and feel of a game.

What We Like

First, the quality of the game is great. We like that it increases in difficulty. It is well thought out and holds your interest. It also has a Minecraft look to it. We also like that the levels move though the book instead of 1 to 6 being on the first page. This keeps it interesting, makes you feel like you’ve accomplished something and keeps things fresh.

What We Don’t Like

The frustration! As I said in the beginning of this post, I told you I am not a programmer. It was fun to watch my youngest (who is also not a programmer by nature) try to master the game and keep working at it. However, after finishing one hard level, she was done and wouldn’t come back.

Next, we were expecting more of a Minecraft feel to the game, based on the cover artwork. Aside from being about computers, the game didn’t seem to have anything to do with Minecraft. (But then again, I also don’t play Minecraft…)

Is Code Master Worth Adding to your Family Game Shelf?

This is a tricky question. It really depends on what your family likes and what you want to get out of the game. For our family who get frustrated quickly by this type of game (and are really past the age of the game) it wouldn’t be a good fit. On the other hand, if you have school aged kids who love computers, codding and all things puzzles then this is the game for you. It may be worth it too if you want a hands on way at looking at coding and want to develop the skill. After all, programming is the way of the future.

You can get your copy of Code Master here. Canadians can get their Code Master here. Code Master is a Thinkfun game.

If you’re looking for a game that is a little more sublet in its coding skills, try Mastermind, Codenames and Dog Pile And if you’re looking for a non-coding game, check out our game reviews.

Rating:

Pros: quality, well thought out
Cons: can be frustrating
Mom: coding skills, problem solving,