With so much automation in our lives, it’s a wonder that we are able to remember anything anymore. Think about how many phone numbers you can remember now. A decade ago you probably had ten numbers memorized, ready to be dialed. Now, you’re lucky if you can remember your own cell number.

Things may not be that bad, actually, but it is a fact that we are using our brains for certain activities much less often than before. This can lead to deterioration – also known as “use it or lose it.”

If you are looking for a fun way to use your noggin, then download dispair today. It’s a neat brainteaser game that forces you to focus and activate brain connections to get the right answer.

The game itself has you look at a bunch of letters, and then place them in the correct order.

The app challenges players with increasingly difficult puzzles to solve. The complexity behind them is such that the play levels don’t even start at 1, they start at level 4 and make their way up to level 8:

• Level 4: this is the introductory level, where you accustom yourself to the goal of the game
• Level 5: games are bit tougher, but you will easily work your way through this level
• Level 6: the challenge gets more serious at this level, but multiple trials will strengthen your ability to pass from this phase
• Level 7: games at this level are harder, and you may be tempted to quit at this point, but because the game is so addicting, you will keep going back to get through this level
• Level 8: this is for die-hard players who know they have what it takes to beat a brainteaser

You can also play in two different modes. Beginner’s Mode allows you trial play and lets you make several attempts at your answer, allowing you to learn the game and how it works. It also allows you to figure out quickly just what the game is looking for in terms of an answer. The combinations are many, so practicing in this mode is crucial.

Professional Mode is the serious side of the game. Here, you are challenged and afforded little leeway when mistakes are made. This allows you to turn on the heat and see how your deductive talents work.

I initially found dispair a bit despairing. It was hard trying to figure out what the right combination was and I came across several fails. However, each fail was really a learning moment that allowed me to collect data and learn how to play better.

I would say that having a Level 1, 2, and 3 would help players feel less anxious about playing this game, because as it stands right now, it’s a bit daunting to think of playing at Level 4 straightaway.

Nevertheless, once you start playing dispair you easily get hooked onto it, especially if you are the combinatorial mathematical type.