A family of all ages sitting around a table, smiling and enjoying a game of Trigahex together.

Trigahex and STEM Learning Fun

When you sit down to play a game, it’s usually for the fun, the conversation, and the little rush of a well-played move—not to tick off a learning goal. But every so often, a game comes along that manages to do both. It gets people thinking without them even realising it. It brings generations together, keeps minds sharp, and sneaks in a bit of learning along the way.


That’s exactly what Trigahex does. Simple to learn, engaging to play, and surprisingly strategic, it’s now been officially recognised for its brain-boosting value with full STEM accreditation—plus a spot in the top 5% of STEM products nationwide. But beyond the award, what really matters is how it plays out at the table: thoughtful moves, shared laughs, and meaningful time between kids, grandparents, and everyone in between.

Quick Summary

STEM skills can be developed without anyone noticing they’re learning

Games like Trigahex help keep older minds active and alert

Kids pick up critical thinking, pattern recognition, and planning through play

Play naturally encourages social connection across generations

The best kind of learning happens when everyone’s having fun

1. What Does “STEM” Actually Mean?

STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. But in everyday life, it’s not about memorising facts—it’s about how we solve problems, spot patterns, test ideas, and think critically.


When a game is STEM-accredited, it means independent experts have looked at how it engages players’ minds and found real educational value in it. That could be through logic, spatial reasoning, visual processing, or decision-making—and in Trigahex, it’s often all of the above.

2. Learning That Doesn’t Feel Like Learning

The most effective kind of learning? The kind no one realises is happening. While kids are trying to place their cards just right or block a sneaky move from across the table, they’re also flexing their memory, focus, and logic.


And because it’s all wrapped up in friendly competition, there’s no pressure. Just real thinking, disguised as fun.

3. A Gentle Mental Boost for Older Adults

As we get older, keeping the brain active becomes more important than ever - but not everyone enjoys doing crosswords or memory apps on a screen. That’s where a tactile, turn-based game can really shine.


Games like Trigahex encourage pattern recognition, strategic planning, and mental flexibility. You’re constantly adjusting, observing, and re-thinking your next move. It’s stimulating, yes - but also calming. It helps people stay sharp, without ever feeling like hard work.

🏅 Recognised as a “Best in STEM” 2024–2025 product – awarded to only the top 5% of STEM-accredited resources.

Trigahex and STEM Learning

4. Strengthening Memory and Focus (Without the Stress)

Every time you play, you’re quietly remembering which cards have been played, keeping track of what colours or patterns you’ve seen, and deciding whether to change your plan or stick with it.

Two children playing Trigahex

This kind of gentle memory recall is good for everyone—especially seniors looking to stay mentally engaged in an enjoyable, low-pressure way. For kids, it builds concentration and attention span without needing to sit still with a book or worksheet.

5. Social Play That Feels Meaningful

Games have a lovely way of bringing people together, especially when they’re simple enough for everyone to join in. Grandparents and grandkids often find themselves on equal footing - one with patience and experience, the other with bold moves and quick thinking.


That balance creates a unique space for bonding. There’s conversation, laughter, sometimes a bit of cheeky rivalry—and underneath it all, a shared moment that matters. And those are the moments that last long after the game’s packed away.

6. Planning, Thinking Ahead, and Reading the Room

Whether you’re eight or eighty eight, strategic thinking is a skill that keeps on giving. Trigahex encourages players to think a few steps ahead, watch what others are doing, and adjust their play accordingly.


For kids, this builds logic and planning. For adults, it supports mental agility and flexible thinking. And for both, it’s a fun challenge - where the smartest move is often the one no one saw coming.

7. A Game That Grows With You

One of the best things about Trigahex is that it adapts to the people playing it. You can keep things simple for a quick game with younger kids, or go deep into strategy with more experienced players. Some games are fast and light. Others get surprisingly intense - in the best way.


That flexibility makes it a great fit for mixed-age groups, retirement villages, and family gatherings. No two games are quite the same, and there’s always something new to notice.

8. Confidence and Connection Without Pressure

Many older adults feel hesitant about trying new games - worried they’ll forget the rules, slow others down, or not quite “get it.” But Trigahex has a kind learning curve, and the visual layout of the cards helps guide the flow.


It’s easy to start, and you’ll find yourself learning by doing. And for kids, having a grown-up (especially a grandparent) trust them to explain the rules or suggest a move is quietly empowering. Everyone’s learning. Everyone’s playing. No one’s left behind.

9. Why STEM Recognition Matters (But Doesn’t Need to Be Obvious)

STEM accreditation and “Best in STEM” status mean that Trigahex has been recognised as a product that genuinely supports learning, logic, and higher-order thinking. That’s a wonderful badge of honour - but you don’t need to mention it while playing.


What matters most is what people feel at the table: the spark of a clever move, the satisfaction of spotting a pattern, the joy of a shared game. The learning’s just part of the experience - and it sticks around long after the final card is played.

10. From the Living Room to the Lounge Room Table

Whether it’s played in a family living room, a classroom breakout space, or a retirement village common area, Trigahex fits naturally into real life. It doesn’t need a screen. It doesn’t need a lot of setup. And it doesn’t ask much of its players - just attention, a bit of thinking, and a willingness to join in.


For older adults, it can become part of a regular game group that keeps social and mental engagement going strong. For families, it turns a lazy afternoon into something a bit more memorable.

Download Materials

Noticeboard Signs

Recommended Setup

  • Use 1-hexagon games for speed and ease (ideal for beginners).
  • Best of 3 games format per round encourages persistence and adaptability.
  • Rounds can be individual or team-based , depending on class size and preference.

Game Format Options

Game Format: Solo - 2 or 3 Players

Perfect for classroom stations or small groups.

Game Format: Team Play - 4 or 6 Players (2-3 per team)

Encourages collaboration and communication. Great for upper primary and secondary.

Hexagon Play Options

  • 1-Hexagon -  Fast-paced, good for short rounds or beginner players.
  • 2-Hexagons -  Adds complexity, ideal for more strategic play.
  • 3-Hexagons -  Maximum challenge, suited for older students or championship rounds.

Advancement

Winners from each round advance to the next round.

Final rounds can be across classes to reach a grade champion.

Tips for Teachers

Start with a demo session : Play a quick round with 2 students in front of the class.

Encourage student referees : Older students can help younger students run their games.

Keep a leaderboard visible in the classroom or school corridor to build excitement.

Use class time or lunchtime clubs for regular play - easy to slot into existing programs.

The Wrap Up: Play That Gives Something Back

Trigahex isn’t trying to teach anyone anything - but it’s still one of those rare games that leaves you a little sharper, a little more connected, and a lot more satisfied when the game ends.


Whether you're playing with a grandchild, a neighbour, or your regular group of friends, you’ll find it’s not just about forming hexagons or winning rounds - it’s about the thinking, the chatting, the “aha!” moments, and the sense that this was time well spent.


And when something simple brings all that to the table, it's easy to see why it’s earned a place in the top 5% of STEM games - and in the hearts of the people who play it.

Erica, game designer and player

Written by Erica

Game designer. Trigahex  creator. Strategy enthusiast.


Got thoughts, feedback, or your own gameplay strategy?   Send me a message  - I'd love to hear your strategy.

FAQs

What is Trigahex and how does it work in the classroom?

Trigahex is a strategic, hex-based card game that challenges players to create patterns, outmaneuver opponents, and think ahead. In the classroom, it supports critical thinking, collaboration, and STEM-aligned learning - all through engaging gameplay.

What age group is Trigahex suitable for?

Trigahex is best suited for students aged 8 and up. The game’s rules are simple to learn, but the strategic depth makes it challenging and rewarding for middle and high school students.

How long does a typical game take?

A standard game of Trigahex lasts around 15–25 minutes, depending on the number of players and their experience level. It’s ideal for fitting into a single class period or rotating through stations.

Do students need any prior experience with strategy games?

Not at all. Trigahex is easy to pick up and designed for accessibility. Students quickly learn the rules and naturally build more advanced strategies over time.

How does Trigahex help with differentiation in mixed-ability classrooms?

Because it’s flexible and layered, Trigahex allows students to play at their own level - some focus on basic pattern-building, while others explore deep strategy. It’s a great tool for inclusive learning.

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