On February 8, 2025, Luis Otavio, co-founder of Hanoi Studios and the creative mind behind Hanoi Puzzles: Solid Match, made a stop at Centro de Apoio e Reforço Escolar (CARE) in Santo Andre, Brazil. This inclusive institution welcomed the launch of both the board game and ID@Xbox Play Anywhere versions of Hanoi Puzzles: Solid Match, specially crafted to assist neurodivergent children in their developmental journey.
Fernanda Mombelli, a neuropsychopedagogue who runs the institution, noted how crucial it is to identify a child’s unique needs early on. She also pointed out the significant advantages inclusive games like these offer in nurturing vital skills and educational growth for neurodivergent kids.
Hanoi Puzzles: Solid Match stands out in its genre by enhancing abilities such as attention, concentration, memory, focus, and planning—areas where many neurodivergent individuals are often eager for improvement.
Hanoi Puzzles: Solid Match is a game that allows players to explore at their own pace. With no pressure to minimize moves, it offers a safe space for players to experiment and find solutions, as highlighted by pedagogue and physical educator Alan Nobre, who supports using games as a joyful learning experience:
“In early childhood education, we’re not chasing high scores. We want these times to be some of the happiest for the kids. When a child is happy, they learn and grow so much better, which is exactly what we’re aiming for.”
Consider how inclusive games can make a difference for those who are neurodivergent.
Mombelli followed the progress of one student with ADHD, anxiety, stuttering, and social challenges as they engaged with the game:
“Right out of the gate, with just a hint of guidance, the student got the game’s goal and breezed through the early levels. But as the game got harder, things like anxiety and stuttering started creeping in. Taking a breather helped; we paused, took a step back, and explored the options. With this new perspective, they overcame obstacles and continued to advance.”
When trying the board game version, especially in a cooperative setting with educators, the student’s enthusiasm was palpable. Their love for the game was not only a testament to its fun but also a marker of their advancing social skills, attention span, focus, and sense of belonging—a victory on many fronts.
Looking to the future, Luis Otavio is hopeful:
“I aim to keep creating games that embrace inclusion, inspiring a wider variety of educational venues across Brazil to join this movement.”
For families seeking more gaming insights, tips, or even privacy tools, you might want to explore what Xbox has to offer. Check out xbox.com/family for a treasure trove of resources, including the Xbox Family Settings app and Community Standards.
Dive into the world of Hanoi Puzzles: Solid Match on Xbox and PC now! It’s part of the Xbox Play Anywhere initiative, boasting cross save and Smart Delivery to ensure your gaming experience is seamless.
