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Power-Up: Unlocking the Hidden Mathematics in Video Games

Power-Up: Unlocking the Hidden Mathematics in Video Games

Current price: $19.95
Publication Date: November 19th, 2019
Publisher:
Princeton University Press
ISBN:
9780691196381
Pages:
296
Usually Ships in 1 to 5 Days

Description

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.

About the Author

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.