Math and Board Games
Math and Board Games Have you ever spent minutes agonizing over which move to make in a board game? Out of all the possible options, how could you possibly determine which move is best? Was there even an objectively best decision? In this course, we will explore the mathematics and underlying gameplay structures of several modern board games. In addition to playing these games during class, we’ll use math and logic to assess and quantify the value of a range of possible in-game decisions. Using formal mathematical proofs, papers, and in-class discussions, we’ll analyze the fairness and equity of strategies across a wide variety of games. We’ll finish the course by designing our own board game based on what we’ve learned!
Math and Board Games Have you ever spent minutes agonizing over which move to make in a board game? Out of all the possible options, how could you possibly determine which move is best? Was there even an objectively best decision? In this course, we will explore the mathematics and underlying gameplay structures of several modern board games. In addition to playing these games during class, we’ll use math and logic to assess and quantify the value of a range of possible in-game decisions. Using formal mathematical proofs, papers, and in-class discussions, we’ll analyze the fairness and equity …Read more
I took this course as a FYSE in Fall 2025. Every other week we get introduced to a new board game and then we'll spend sometimes covering the mechanics, complexities, aesthetics and strategies covered within each game. It was a really fun and enjoyable experience, with a supportive classroom environment and the best human being in Alex Lyford. 10/10 would recommend.
This class was truly a unique and enjoyable experience. Learning how mathematical concepts apply to board games was an incredibly creative and engaging approach. Alex’s passion for the material was evident and made the class even more interesting. I was introduced to a wide variety of games and gained a completely new perspective on how to analyze and appreciate them. I would absolutely recommend this course to anyone looking for a fun and thought-provoking learning experience.
This class was truly a unique and enjoyable experience. Learning how mathematical concepts apply to board games was an incredibly creative and engaging approach. Alex’s passion for the material was evident and made the class even more interesting. I was introduced to a wide variety of games and gained a completely new perspective on …Read more
Super fun, just played board games every class and wrote a few essays about them. Learned how to play a bunch of games and looked at some of the math and statistics within them. Alex is awesome definitely take this class if you possible
This is an absolute gem of a class. The application of math concepts to board games is such a cool way to learn. Alex is really passionate about the course material and it shows in his teaching. Got exposure to a ton of new games and think about them in a new way. Would highly, highly recommend.
This course is one of my most favorite classes at Middlebury. We basically play board games at every class and wrote some game reviews using some mathematical concepts. Taught me many interesting board games and I'm glad it can fulfill the CW distribution.