It may seem that board games are becoming a thing of the past, as most kids these days would rather play video games or apps. As parents, we can use this technology to help our kids learn and develop skills that they will be able to use in our tech-driven world.

The new Mojobot is the world’s first tangible coding robot and board game that makes it easy for adults and kids to learn the core principles of coding and robotics.

Mojobot is a multiplayer game where players compete to undertake Missions and earn star points. It is equipped with many features such as lights, sounds, sensors, motion, and actions. Mojobot can even pick up tokens, carry them around and deliver them to different locations. It allows kids to get away from the screens and have a hands-on experience learning a valuable skill while having fun at the same time. And the best part is that the whole family can enjoy it together – it’s great for ages 4-99+.

The Mojobot is available now for backing on Kickstarter. The Mojobot Basic Kit includes the Mojobot robot and the Main Console as well as the coding tags, cards, tokens, storybook, map, and charging cables. You also have the option to purchase the Mojobot Extension Kit which will get you an extension console, logic coding tags, additional cards, a book, and a paper origami box.

Basic Info About Mojobot

Mojobot picks up Tokens using a magnet and solenoid actuator. For communication with the Console there is a Bluetooth chip. The robot uses the differential drive and has two wheels and motors for navigation. Mojobot has a microphone which can record sounds and also act as a sound level sensor. The recorded sounds can be played back using its speakers.  Mojobot’s eyes are LEDs that can show different expressions. The tail light can be commanded and changed to different colors. In front of Mojobot there are infrared sensors that can detect distance and presence of objects. Mojobot has infrared navigation sensors that ensure that Mojobot will always move correctly to each location in the map. The infrared sensors will detect the marked square pattern on the corner of each block in the map. This means you can code Mojobot to move in an infinite square loop and still keep its correct position.

Tangible Coding

Tangible coding solutions have been shown to be more effective for teaching, as it is more attractive and easier to play than alternative screen based coding. Having physical coding pieces that kids can touch and feel helps to improve their engagement and memory. Coding and computational thinking is an essential skill for our present time and will be even more important as we progress into the future.