Luis Otavio, the creative mind behind Hanoi Studios, made an inspiring appearance at the Centro de Apoio e Reforço Escolar (CARE) in Santo Andre, Brazil, on February 8, 2025. The co-founder unveiled the latest project from the indie game publisher, Hanoi Puzzles: Solid Match. This isn’t just your average game; it’s designed to empower neurodivergent children by enhancing their cognitive skills. With both board game and ID@Xbox Play Anywhere versions available, the game serves as an innovative tool for educational development.
Fernanda Mombelli, a neuropsychopedagogue and the driving force behind CARE, underlined the crucial role of early diagnosis when it comes to special educational needs. She pointed out how inclusive games can be a game-changer for neurodivergent students, nurturing vital skills like attention and focus.
Hanoi Puzzles: Solid Match is all about making cognitive development enjoyable. It hones in on attention, concentration, memory, and planning—critical skills that often present challenges for those who are neurodivergent.
The game’s design encourages exploration and creativity, allowing players to solve problems at their own pace. Alan Nobre, a pedagogue and physical educator, weighed in on the impact of this initiative, sharing, “In early childhood education, the goal isn’t high performance. We’re here to make these years memorable and joyful because a happy child grows and learns better.”
Let’s delve into the advantages inclusive games bring to neurodivergent students. One particular case involved a student dealing with ADHD, anxiety, stuttering, and social difficulties. As they engaged with the game, Fernanda observed their learning journey closely. Initially, with minimal guidance, the student grasped the objectives quickly and whizzed through the early levels. But as challenges became more complex, frustration and anxiety surfaced. With some breathing exercises and strategic guidance, the student was able to progress, illustrating their capacity for growth even in the face of difficulty.
Playing the board game version with teachers in a cooperative mode sparked even more enthusiasm. The student’s eagerness to play more frequently was telling—not just of enjoyment but of progress, particularly in their social skills and concentration levels. Moments like these are richly rewarding for educators and players alike.
Looking forward, what’s Luis’s vision for inclusive gaming? “I aim to develop more games with a focus on inclusion and extend this initiative to reach more educational institutions across Brazil,” he shares.
If you’re keen on exploring family-friendly gaming resources or the latest from Xbox, head over to xbox.com/family. You’ll find information on privacy settings, the Xbox Family Settings app, and community guidelines that ensure a safe and fun experience for all.
Ready to dive into Hanoi Puzzles: Solid Match? It’s accessible on Xbox and PC, offering a seamless experience with cross-save features and Smart Delivery.
A standout title by Hanoi Studios, this game takes a fresh twist on the classic Tower of Hanoi concept. Tasked with stacking colored pieces on a hexagonal board, players will find themselves immersed in a soothing yet stimulating environment. The challenge lies in unlocking pathways by adhering to traditional puzzle rules, fostering a satisfying sense of accomplishment as each level unfolds. At just $4.99, it’s an affordable addition to any gaming collection, promising hours of strategic fun.
