At NumberClub, we believe everyone can improve at, enjoy, and ultimately flourish in mathematics. The key lies not just in playful, games-based learning, but in playing games designed specifically to maximise deep mathematical thought, making the mathematics itself the star of the show.

We have developed a framework for designing effective maths games that moves beyond superficial gamification to foster genuine fluency. This framework is built on three interconnected principles that underpin the development of groundbreaking games like BrickUp, Stick and Split, and NumberRamble.

1. Elegant, Goal-Focused Challenges

Effective game design starts with an intentionally elegant core. In other words, the challenges must be simple and purposeful, built around mathematically rich tasks. The mechanics must be satisfying enough to keep learners engaged while simultaneously avoiding cognitive overload. This focused approach ensures the child’s mental energy is spent on the mathematical concept, not on extraneous game elements like cute characters or complex virtual worlds.

2.Build Feedback Representations for Conceptual Depth

A common pitfall in educational software is only providing feedback on procedural correctness (“right” or “wrong”). Our framework insists on Building Feedback Representations that address a learner’s conceptual understanding.

Feedback should be delivered visually, using spatial representations of quantities, to show players why their answer was incorrect. Crucially, the game must provide the opportunity for them to reflect and make a different decision, connecting the error to the underlying mathematical concept. This shifts the focus from rote memorisation to flexible fluency.

3. Iterate with Players, Not Just Ideas

The final and most critical step is ensuring the game works in the hands of the learner. This principle champions authentic testing with children in real classroom experiences.

It is through this Iteration with Players that we can refine the game model across all levels, from the user interface (UI) to the core systems. By observing children’s persistence and strategy-use, we ensure that our innovation is genuinely effective and grounded in practical educational value.

Fostering True Fluency

By using this three-part framework – creating elegant challenges, designing conceptual feedback, and committing to player-based iteration – we can move beyond simple drills. Games such as Stick and Split (which develops a deep understanding of multiplication and division) and Brick Up (which strengthens addition and subtraction skills) are successful examples of this design in action, helping children achieve true mathematical proficiency.

The goal is to provide huge amounts of mathematical thought and reasoning, transforming the learning experience so every student can get good at and love mathematics.

Interested in knowing more? We’d love to hear from teachers, school-based maths leaders, headteachers, Local Leaders of Mathematics Education (LLMEs) and Multi-Academy Trust (MAT) Maths and Maths Hub Leads.