(You can read about Dodgem in Martin Gardner’s book “”Time Travel and Other Mathematical Bewilderments”” in chapter 12: “”Dodgem and Other Simple Games””.)
This version of Dodgem, Space Dodge’m, differs from the original game in its setting (deep space, on a space station rather than on a normal ‘checkers or chess’ style playing board), its playing pieces (shuttles and landers rather than plain black and white pieces), and the presence of a relentless time keeper (the rogue asteroid — not present in Mr. Vout’s original game).
Space Dodge’m is an example of a very simple game that has no known ‘winning’ strategy. The goal of each player is to move his or her shuttles or landers, one piece at a time, one square at a time (following very simple rules), until all have safely been launched and evacuated off the opposite end of the space station. The first player to evacuate his or her shuttles or landers wins the game. There are time constraints, however. The rogue asteroid “”brakes for no one”” and may vaporize the station before anyone can win.”
Another thing that really makes Space Dodge’m enjoyable for me is how it manages to stay interesting even after playing it multiple times. Many games feel repetitive after a while, but here, the experience still feels fresh because of the small details and different ways you can approach the gameplay. As you continue playing, you naturally start improving and understanding the mechanics better, which makes everything feel more rewarding. I also appreciate the balance the game maintains—it’s not too difficult, but it’s not too easy either. You can play it casually for a short break or spend longer sessions without getting bored. That flexibility is one of the biggest reasons why I keep coming back to Space Dodge’m. Overall, it’s the kind of game that doesn’t just entertain you for a moment, but actually gives you a consistently enjoyable experience every time you play.
