Countdown numbers game updates: number selection
These Countdown numbers game updates explain changes made after player feedback. The small numbers no longer appear in a simple consecutive sequence. They can also repeat, making the selection closer to the familiar Countdown-style numbers round.
The app also includes a part-calculate button. It lets you simplify part of an expression before continuing, so you do not need to manage as many nested brackets at once.
How the six-number selection works
The usual pool contains two copies of each small number from 1 to 10. The four large numbers are 25, 50, 75 and 100. A round uses six numbers in total, with a mix of large and small numbers.
A repeated small number represents a separate tile. For example, if your selection contains two threes, you can use both. However, you cannot reuse a tile that you have already used in the calculation.
Reach the target using basic arithmetic
Use addition, subtraction, multiplication and division to get as close as you can to the target. You do not have to use every number. Brackets can change the order of operations, so check the expression you enter.
For example, suppose the selected numbers include 75, 6, 5 and 4, and the target is 470. First, 75 × 6 = 450. Next, 5 × 4 = 20. Adding the two results gives 470.
The expression is (75 × 6) + (5 × 4). Each tile appears once. Any other selected numbers can remain unused.
Using the part-calculate button
Try a short calculation first, then use the part-calculate control to simplify it. Check the result before building the next step. This is useful when you can see a route towards the target but a long expression is becoming hard to follow.
For more practice, read our Countdown numbers solving guide. You can also explore the online numbers game.
Try the Countdown numbers game updates
Open the store listing below for the current version of Countdown Letters and Numbers. The app includes number challenges alongside letter and conundrum games. Check your store for device requirements and purchase options.
