Cogitate, an online game based on the laws of physics that includes LEGO TECHNIC  pieces has now been played over one million times across 187 countries.

The Institution of Engineering and Technology’s (IET) highly addictive game allows users to manipulate gears, beams, conveyors and motors in order to complete set puzzles, with the added option of being able to challenge other players.

Based on the laws of physics, Cogitate rewards players with points for both the creativity and speed of their solutions. The game is a favourite amongst engineering academics as well as engineering professionals and students.

Cogitate was originally designed to raise awareness of the IET, Inspec Direct and IET Discover globally and like all good viral campaigns has developed a life of its own.

Clare McCulloch, IET Marketing Campaign Manager, said, “I am delighted but not surprised Cogitate is so popular. The game encourages innovation and creativity, both of which are essential to engineering excellence. It also encourages healthy competition, with solutions being shared using YouTube. Most impressive are the solutions themselves, they’re truly inventive and represent the IET vision to share and advance knowledge, promoting the fact that engineers are providing solutions to global challenges.”

Mike Jackson, a computer scientist and games developer, said, “Cogitate is intriguing and instantly enjoyable.  It forces you to think laterally, but does so in an innovative and fun environment.  It has a pick up and play feel and rewards players with a great sense of achievement when they string together gears and beams, successfully completing a puzzle.”  

To play the game, visit www.theiet.org/cogitate.