Math for Kids

A mathematical game is a game whose rules, strategies, and outcomes are defined 
by clear mathematical parameters. Often, such games have simple rules and match
 procedures, such as Tic-tac-toe and Dots and Boxes. Generally, mathematical games
 need not be conceptually intricate to involve deeper computational underpinnings.
 For example, even though the rules of Mancala are relatively basic, the game can 
be rigorously analyzed through the lens of combinatorial game theory.

Mathematical games differ sharply from mathematical puzzles in that mathematical 
puzzles require specific mathematical expertise to complete, whereas mathematical
 games do not require a deep knowledge of mathematics to play. 

 Often, the arithmetic core of mathematical games is not readily 
apparent to players untrained to note the statistical or mathematical aspects.

Some mathematical games are of deep interest in the field of recreational mathematics.

When studying a game's core mathematics, arithmetic theory is generally of higher utility 
than actively playing or observing the game itself. To analyze a game numerically, it is
 particularly useful to study the rules of the game insofar as they can yield equations 
or relevant formulas. This is frequently done to determine winning strategies or 
to distinguish if the game has a solution.