For someone like me who sucks at Math, reviewing an application like Abakus is not really a great idea. Or maybe it is, considering that it was actually kinda fun to do Math on it, which is the main purpose of the application. What it does is to make solving the Math sums into a game, so that it does not bore us or make us give up in frustration, which is usually the kind of reaction that Math gets out of me.

There are three player modes to choose from. In the Single Player Mode, we are all alone to test our Math aptitude. There is a time limit for each level, and we have to try and beat the time as well try to score the highest. The Multi Player Mode enables us to take our friends head on in the Math arena by setting handicaps for them; simply change the time limit and we are good to duel. The Career Mode is also a single player mode, but it is more defined with the levels spelled out separately.

Every level tackles a different sort of Math problem, whether it is addition, subtraction, multiplication or division. We get to solve the next level once we have successfully cleared the present one. And of course, it gets more difficult and new challenges crop up. There are three stages to get through before being hailed as a Math genius. Math 1 – World Tour has 12 levels, Math 11 – Flora & Fauna has 24 levels, and Math 111 – Experts Only has 10 levels. There is no short cut to the next stage, except to clear the lower stage.

If we are able to solve the problem before the time limit, we get a time bonus and our score shoots up. Solving each of the sums opens up squares that at the end reveal a beautiful picture. That is what happened in the first few levels that I could get through before the problems overwhelmed me.

Whether a Math lover or not, Abakus is an interesting game to play. There is no doubt that it will enhance our Math skills too. The developer has announced more levels coming up, so if we are looking for fun with Math, we need not look any further. It is right here.

• App Name: Abakus
• Price: $0.99
• App Category: Games
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• Developer: Thomas Busse
  
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