Double Pair – Double Impair: An Educational and Strategic Board Game Combining Mathematics, Strategy, and Ivorian Cultural Discovery

Abstract

Double Pair – Double Impair is an original educational and strategic board game designed to transform mathematical learning into an interactive, engaging, and meaningful experience. The game is based on the concepts of even and odd numbers, numerical comparison, logical reasoning, and strategic decision-making. Through a simple but powerful mechanism, players use numbered cards from 1 to 9 to collect visible cards placed in the center of the table. To succeed, they must identify the parity of numbers (even or odd), compare values, anticipate possible moves, and develop strategies to maximize their score. This approach allows players to discover mathematical concepts through action, experimentation, and reflection rather than through theoretical learning alone. The educational dimension of Double Pair – Double Impair lies in its ability to develop essential cognitive skills such as logical reasoning, observation, mental calculation, concentration, memory, anticipation, problem-solving, and decision-making. By manipulating numbers in a playful context, children and learners strengthen their understanding of numerical relationships and develop confidence in mathematical thinking. Beyond mathematics, the game introduces a strong cultural and educational dimension through illustrated cards representing the heritage of Côte d’Ivoire. The 45 educational illustrations highlight tourist sites, monuments, biodiversity, traditions, environmental protection, and civic awareness themes. Each card becomes both a strategic game element and a learning support, allowing players to discover cultural knowledge while playing. Designed for families, schools, educational workshops, game clubs, and cultural learning environments, Double Pair – Double Impair demonstrates how board games can become effective educational tools by combining entertainment, knowledge transmission, and social interaction. The project aims to contribute to the development of innovative educational games originating from Côte d’Ivoire and Africa, promoting a vision of play as a powerful method for learning, discovery, and cultural transmission. For information, collaboration, publishing, partnership opportunities, access to the complete rules, or additional project details: Contact: studiojeuxamara@gmail.com Inventor: Doumbia AmaraCountry of Origin: Côte d’Ivoire – Africa