Su-Doku puzzles have taken the world by storm, captivating minds and creating a complex industry around a simple game. From newspapers to mobile phones, and even board games, Su-Doku's reach is expanding rapidly. This article delves into the phenomenon, its origins, and its impact on enthusiasts and the industry alike.
Su-Doku, a logic-based number puzzle, has become a global sensation. The game was introduced to the UK by Wayne Gould, a retired judge from New Zealand, who discovered it in a Tokyo puzzle book in 1997. Gould spent six years developing a computer program to generate new Su-Doku puzzles, which he now provides to newspapers in 11 countries, including the United States and Slovakia. His efforts have paid off, as Su-Doku has become a staple in newspapers and a favorite pastime for many.
Su-Doku's appeal lies in its simplicity and the mental challenge it presents. Peter Levell, a 64-year-old vicar from Guildford, Surrey, admits to being engrossed by the puzzles. "The easy ones I can now do in about 15 minutes, but more difficult ones can take a couple of hours," he says. Levell's son, Tim, recounts how his father and brother were so absorbed in a "fiendish"-level Su-Doku that they ignored everyone else during dinner.
Bernard Stay, a 71-year-old from St Albans, Hertfordshire, has experienced a more extreme reaction. "I would really like my life before Su-Doku back!" he pleaded on a website. Stay describes how failing to complete a puzzle before noon leaves him feeling depressed and sleepless.
Su-Doku's popularity has not only captivated individuals but also caught the attention of educators. The UK government's Teachers magazine recently recommended Su-Doku as a brain exercise in classrooms. Steve McCormack, a consultant editor and part-time secondary teacher, praises the game for its ability to enhance logical thinking, numerical skills, and organizational abilities.
The game's success has also led to various spin-offs, including computer programs, books, and downloadable Su-Doku for mobile phones. Michael Mepham, a veteran puzzle producer, created a Su-Doku program for the Telegraph, which launched its first puzzle on February 24, 2005. The response was overwhelming, with Mepham receiving 60,000 emails, despite an early glitch that resulted in a puzzle with more than one solution.
The future of Su-Doku looks promising, with plans to expand its reach even further. Gould's collaboration with the Times brought the game to the UK in November 2004, and he continues to provide puzzles to newspapers worldwide. The game's popularity shows no signs of waning, and its potential for growth in the digital age is immense.
Su-Doku puzzles have become a global phenomenon, captivating minds and creating a complex industry around a simple game. From newspapers to mobile phones, and even board games, Su-Doku's reach is expanding rapidly. The game's educational benefits and addictive nature have contributed to its widespread appeal, and its future looks promising as it continues to grow in popularity.
For more information on the educational benefits of Su-Doku, visit Teachers magazine. To explore the history and global reach of Su-Doku, check out Wayne Gould's website.
