Tux, Of Math Command a Fun Way to Teach Kids Math

Tux, Of Math Command is a deceptively simple and highly addictive math game. It is Open Source, and the full version can be downloaded at no cost. While Tux is the official Linux Mascot, Tux, Of Math Command is available for Windows, Linux and the Mac. The program is designed for a wide range ages. It includes options for teaching basic addition, all the way up to the multiplication of negative numbers and everything in between. The actual game play has some striking resemblance to Atari's classic Missile Command, but with some excellent kid friendly twists.

This is not to say that Tux, Of Math Command is a perfect game. There are some minor flaws and and at least one area of the game that needs some real work. A close look at the game's features will answer the most important question: can Tux teach math?

Game Play Overview

While there are two different types of game play (Training Acadamy and Arcade) the basics are the same for both. Tux, the Linux Penguin, stands at the controls of a laser defense system ready to defend his fellow penguins from falling comets. His companions are tucked safely away in igloos. Two igloos on each side of the defense station give Tux the task of defending a total of four other penguins.

As you might have guessed, each incoming comet has a math problem attached. Entering the correct solution will cause the laser to destroy the comet. Entering an incorrect answer will result in a miss.

This simple mechanic is entertaining, but it is what happens when a comet hits and igloo that makes Tux, Of Match Command interesting. The first comet strike will partially melt the penguin's igloo. A second strike and the igloo melts completely causing the penguin to run away.

No penguins are ever harmed, they simply walk away once their igloo is gone. Giving young players two tries before the penguin flees helps prevent them from becoming frustrated while still providing challenge. The developers however, took things a step further. In addition to the normal math problem comets, there are special bonus comets (red instead of blue).