Puzzle
Isolates
isolates is a slow math arcade horror game based on the concept of playing on a split-flap display.
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Description
isolates is a slow math arcade horror game based on the concept of playing on a split-flap display. You may have come across one of these at an airport or train station. Sequences of numbers will drop from the top of the board and you score by shooting the Root or Complement of the sequence upwards! Roots will destroy the sequence while Complements score 10x and leaving a flashing 9. Send up another 9 to increase a score multiplier! isolates is deliberately slow, mimicking the changing of the tiles. Play ramps up as you increase your multiplier and go for BIG numbers, but if you ever get overwhelmed you can clear sequences by sending up an Asterisk. Endless mode even contains screen-clearing bombs among.. other things. There is a full How To section for learning the concepts as well as a video explainer. The techniques in isolates have been with me since 1st grade and help me achieve a flow-state in the game and in my life more broadly!
- Crank: Optional
- Tilt: Not used
- Microphone: Not used
Credits
Developed by Ledbetter Games Dylan Warren & Robyn Heffler Uses Dimitri's Awesome Pulp Switcher DAPS based in part on the original Pulp Switcher by Shaun Inman Cameo by Dave Hayden with thanks to Tom Granger and Abeno Studio for work on the Playdate Camera Testers & Tech: Orkn, Tijn, Qhoang, Serrotonin, BrittOmnRex, RSTeknology, AdamsImmersive 🏆 Supports Playdate Achievements !
Accessibility
Game contains text dialogue and math. There is a full How To section to explain concepts and techniques to learn the Magic of 9s. Crank use is optional.
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Gameplay and impressions 2 videos
gameplay
Gameplay and impressions / Destination Playdate
isolates - Playdate gameplay + impressions
gameplay
Gameplay and impressions / Ledbetter
slow math arcade horror - isolates on Playdate Catalog 10.13
Elsewhere in the community
Independent write-ups / not member ratings
Playdate: The Unofficial Website
Isolates
Nick Simberg
2026-10-15
Solitary isolation
Age note: Contains implied violence and arcane ceremony. Also Math. We think this game is appropriate for everyone.
AI: This game's developer created it without the use of generative AI.