Matches Puzzle - Free Online Brain Game

Play Matches Puzzle:

This matches puzzle is a fun mental challenge using matchsticks. Remove matchsticks from the board and add them back to form the required pattern or shape.

This game is part of the free online brain games collection.

To begin, click the Small, Medium, or Large button under the picture of the game. This opens the game in a pop-up window.

If you like this game, you might enjoy the other free puzzle games on this site, such as the Sokoban Puzzle.

Instructions - Matches Puzzle

HOW TO PLAY. Each level shows an arrangement of matches laying on a table. Your task is to move the matches around to form a new pattern, using only the indicated number of movements.

Read the objective at the top of the screen. For example, the goal might be, "MOVE 3 MATCHES TO GET 4 SQUARES."

Think about how the matches will need to be moved to achieve the goal pattern.

To remove a match from the table, click or press the match. This moves the match to the match box at the bottom of the screen. To add a match back, click or press the location where you want the match to be.

The challenge of this game is that you need to visualize in advance which matchsticks you need to remove or add.

In the lower center of the game screen is displayed the number of matches you need to remove from the board. Displayed at the top is a description of the shape or pattern you need to form.

Hints can be accessed by clicking the light bulb icon in the lower left.

Strategies for Solving Matches Puzzles

A matches puzzle is a type of brain teaser that requires critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The objective of the puzzle is to move a specific number of matches to create a new shape or arrangement.

Solving a matches puzzle requires a step-by-step approach that involves analyzing the current arrangement of the matches. You then identify possible moves that can be made to create the desired shape.

Puzzle games like this matches game train important brain skills including visual perception, lateral thinking, and logical reasoning. Play games like this one often to give your brain a boost!

One strategy for solving a matches puzzle is to start by identifying the number of matches that need to be moved to create the desired shape. Then, examine the current arrangement of the matches and look for any patterns or symmetry that can be used to guide your moves.

It is often helpful to sketch out the current arrangement of the matches and draw out possible moves on paper to help visualize the solution.
Another strategy is to work backwards from the desired shape and identify the moves that need to be made to reach it. This can be done by breaking the shape down into smaller components and figuring out how each component can be created using matches.

Once you have identified the moves needed to create each component, you can work backwards to figure out the sequence of moves needed to reach the final shape.
A third strategy is to use trial and error to test different moves and see how they impact the current arrangement of the matches. This approach can be time-consuming, but it can also help you identify new patterns and solutions that may not have been apparent at first glance.

Overall, solving a matches puzzle requires patience, persistence, and a willingness to experiment with different strategies. By taking a step-by-step approach and using a combination of analytical and creative thinking, you can unlock the solution to even the most challenging matches puzzles.

Published: 06/06/2017
Last Updated: 03/28/2023