GoSum for iPhone and iPad review

If Words with Friends had a love affair with mathematics, the result would be GoSum. In fact, Words with Friends is to Scrabble, as GoSum is to Equate. Instead of trying to spell words on the game board, the goal of GoSum is to create valid arithmetic equations like 9 + 5 - 6 = 8. GoSum is fun, challenging, and educational.

The rules of GoSum are very simple. The board is a grid of equal signs and point multipliers. DN stands for double number, DS for double sum, TN for triple number, and TS for triple sum. For each turn, you get 5 numbers and 2 operators (+, -, x, ÷). Equal signs are "free" and don't require a token. Your job is to use your 5 numbers and 2 operators to create a valid equation. The equation must be constructed in a way so that all the operators you use are on one side of the equal sign so that the other side of the equal sign only has a number.

The main thing you want to keep in mind while playing GoSum is the Order of Operations: multiplication and division must be done before addition and subtraction. For example, 5 + 16 ÷ 4 = 9 since you must do 16 ÷ 4 first. Remember this simple rule, and you'll be a great player!

The only number tiles provided in GoSum are 0-9. For beginner players, this is enough, but for students who are learning or rusty with fractions, having tiles with fractions would be beneficial. The board game Equate includes fractions, so I hope GoSum mimics it and has an update that includes the ability to add fraction tiles to the game.

I also feel the restriction to only allowing operators on one side of the equal sign disappointing. This limits creativity by not allowing equations such as 84 ÷ 2 = 6 x 7.

There are two game modes for GoSum: Pass & Play and Multiplayer. Both modes allow up to 4 players at a time. Multiplayer is integrated with Facebook so that you can easily play against your friends.

The good

• Great remake of the board game Equate
• Improves arithmetic skills
• Simple, yet challenging
• Pass & Play and Multiplayer game modes

The bad

• Can only put operators (+, -, x, ÷) on one side the equal sign
• No option to add fraction tiles
• Can't play against opponents via wifi or bluetooth (would be great for a classroom setting!)

The bottom line

GoSum is a fantastic game that can be enjoyed by young children and adults alike. Even people who "aren't good at math" will have fun playing GoSum as it only requires basic arithmetic skills. I do wish it included the ability to challenge friends via wifi or bluetooth as it would be great for a classroom setting.