Power-Up: Unlocking the Hidden Mathematics in Video Games - Paperback

by Matthew Lane (Author)

A fun and lively look at the mathematical ideas concealed in video games

Did you know that every time you pick up the controller to your PlayStation or Xbox, you are entering a world steeped in mathematics? Matthew Lane reveals the hidden mathematics in many of today's most popular video games--and explains why mathematical learning doesn't just happen in the classroom. He discusses how gamers are engaging with the traveling salesman problem when they play Assassin's Creed, why it is mathematically impossible for Mario to jump through the Mushroom Kingdom in Super Mario Bros., how The Sims teaches us the mathematical costs of relationships, and more. Power-Up shows how the world of video games is an unexpectedly rich medium for learning about the mathematical ideas that touch our lives--including our virtual ones.

Back Jacket

"Are you a video game enthusiast who is getting tired of being asked 'How can you waste time on such stuff?' This book is your answer! Matthew Lane skillfully weaves a tale of how video games can be important tools for teaching mathematics and physics. As a long-time video gamer, I highly recommend Power-Up."--Paul J. Nahin, author of In Praise of Simple Physics

"What a delightful journey through the math of hidden worlds! This is much more than a book about video games. It's an exploration of interconnectedness and an invitation for the perpetually curious."--Karim Ani, founder of Mathalicious

"After reading Power-Up, parents, teachers, and nongamers who have eschewed letting young people play video games may see that games are not the 'evil distraction' they have been made out to be."--Robin Angotti, University of Washington

Author Biography

Matthew Lane is a mathematician and cofounder of Rithm School, where he works with aspiring software engineers. He writes about the intersection of mathematics and popular culture at mattlane.us.