Work together to build and protect a town that is under attack by giant robots. Choose to upgrade the homes within the town and grow the population, strengthen the town walls or actively attack the robots. Every correct answer helps your team reinforce defences and push back the invading robots!

This version of the game focuses on solving near doubles addition problems. Students apply their knowledge of doubles facts to solve related sums, such as 6 + 7 or 8 + 9, by thinking about the nearest double and adjusting by one. It’s an engaging way to strengthen mental maths strategies while helping their town grow and stay safe.

Students take turns answering questions, and with each success, they get to decide how to improve or defend the town. Whether they build houses, strengthen the walls or launch a counterattack, they’ll feel a sense of progress with every turn.

Key Learning Outcomes:

• ✅ Solve near doubles addition problems within 20
• ✅ Apply knowledge of doubles to find related addition facts
• ✅ Strengthen mental maths strategies and flexibility
• ✅ Develop fluency with number facts and place value concepts
• ✅ Engage in collaborative decision-making through purposeful gameplay

How to Play:

1. Students are presented with a near doubles sum, such as 7 + 8.
2. They solve the problem using mental strategies like doubling and adding or subtracting one.
3. Each correct answer allows them to choose a town action: grow homes, boost defences or attack the robots.
4. The game continues as students work together to balance growth and protection while answering more questions.
5. The town’s survival and progress depend on the accuracy and teamwork of the players.

Ideas for Classroom Use:

• 💡 Use to consolidate mental addition strategies during a doubles and near doubles unit
• 💡 Ideal for Years 1–3 students developing fluency with addition facts to 20
• 💡 Play in pairs or teams to encourage collaboration and discussion
• 💡 Include in rotations as a hands-on, skill-specific digital activity

Top Teacher Tips:

• 💛 Let students personalise their gameplay by choosing from six character avatars at the start
• 💛 Choose team, partner or solo mode depending on your classroom needs
• 💛 Send the QR code home for extra practice and reinforcement of near doubles facts

Let’s Defend – Near Doubles: Addition to 20 brings strategic thinking and number fact fluency together in a dynamic digital challenge your students will love!