TED-Ed: Can you solve the trickster god riddle? | Alex Rosenthal

The video explores a game proposed by Loki to settle a conflict. The game, based on John Conway's 'Brussels sprouts', involves carving crosses and connecting lines. The analysis reveals that Loki has rigged the game, but a deeper understanding of the mechanics shows a potential strategy to outsmart him. The key is to manipulate the game's dynamics and enclosures to secure a win.

What is the main objective of the game proposed by Loki?

• To create the largest enclosed region

• To connect all lines without crossing

• To make the last valid move

• To carve the most crosses on the table

How many moves does the game end with when starting with two crosses?

• Three moves

• Eight moves

• Five moves

• Thirteen moves

What happens to a 'life' when it is stuck in an enclosure?

• It becomes unusable

• It creates a new cross

• It doubles

• It adds a free move

What is the significance of creating a new region in the game?

• It ends the game immediately

• It adds a new cross

• It removes a life

• It divides the region further

What does each cross initially provide in terms of game mechanics?

• No additional benefit

• One free move

• Two lives

• Four lives

What is the result of connecting two separate clusters in the game?

• A new enclosure is created

• A free move is granted

• The game ends

• No new enclosure is created

What is the only way to win against Loki according to the conclusion?

• By making the first move

• By carving more crosses

• By tricking the trickster

• By creating the largest region