Houdini Brainteaser

Houdini Brainteaser - A 40-challenge escape logic puzzle.

I received Houdini Brainteaser, a one-person brainteaser, as a Christmas gift. I have to admit I don't have anything like it. The box even boasts that it is the "World's First 40-Challenge Escape Puzzle". 

Houdini Brainteaser includes several pieces which will be used to bind Houdini. You can see the individual pieces in the image above. Your job is to free him, without using the clasps to release the pieces. Sounds intriguing, let's check it out!

One of the first things I do with a new puzzle is look at the challenges and then at the solutions. Yikes, no solutions! That had me sweating until I read in the instructions that the complete take-apart solution videos are on the ThinkFun website. So I headed to the website and sure enough, there they are. They also show videos for the set up part of the puzzles. You know there's a chance it will be difficult when you need a video to help you set-up a puzzle. This does make me a little nervous though, because games eventually retire so will the information for solving the puzzles still be there in a few years.

The 40 challenges increase in difficulty as you go. Here is a picture of the first and last challenge.

PLAY:

1. Select a challenge.
2. Tie Houdini up as shown.
3. Free Houdini getting him clear of all the ropes without undoing the clasps.

The Think Fun website has a link where you can see the set up as well as the solution to the puzzles if you are interested. Here it is ThinkFun.

Here are the Think Fun tips for freeing Houdini:

• Try to work him to one end of the rope.
• Experiment to see which pieces can pass through each other. VERY GOOD TIP TO START. I might have figured it out if I done this first.
• Try to keep your ropes from getting tangled.
• Free another piece before you free Houdini.
• Remember to use what you learn from previous challenges.

If you would like to read more about one-person logic puzzles, check out my post What's in Your Therapy Box? Logic Puzzles Edition. 


Try this:

• If you get too tangled up, just release the clips and start over.
• If frustration takes over, take a break. Most can't think creatively under those conditions. I know I can't.
• Use the set up cards only, if you have those who couldn't figure out the puzzles. Just those pictures can offer a VP workout.
• Work the solution as the individual watches. Then set up again and let him do it.
• Use the videos as a guide and stop as many times as needed to follow.
• Work on visual discrimination, visual closure, visualization, eye-hand coordination, spatial relations, executive functioning skills, manual dexterity, fine motor precision, bilateral coordination, grasp, problem solving, strategy, logic, process skills, play and leisure exploration and participation.  

In the box: 40 challenges, 2 ropes, lock & 2 rings, Houdini body and legs, trap cage, travel bag

If you are interested in purchasing this item or just want more information, click on the image below.