Synthesis is a learning platform that uses team-based strategy games to teach children how to think critically, solve complex problems, and collaborate effectively. Aimed at students aged 6 to 14, Synthesis blends education and entertainment to foster decision-making, communication, and leadership skills.
The platform’s foundation is rooted in the philosophy of Elon Musk’s experimental school, Ad Astra. Instead of rote memorization or rigid assignments, students at Synthesis engage in intellectually rich simulations that require creative solutions. The games are designed to be difficult and ambiguous on purpose, encouraging students to think independently and work cooperatively.
Features
Synthesis offers a variety of unique features that set it apart from traditional and even other digital education platforms:
Multiplayer, team-based strategy games that challenge players to solve dynamic problems
Weekly sessions moderated by professional facilitators who guide student reflection and discussion
Emphasis on communication, persuasion, negotiation, and logic through gameplay
Real-time collaboration with peers from around the world
Games built around complex decision-making, often with no single correct answer
Parent dashboard with insights into progress and participation
Adaptive learning environment that grows in complexity over time
The experience is designed not only to build academic skills but also to instill life skills necessary for success in the modern world.
How It Works
Students join Synthesis by enrolling in one of its live weekly sessions. Once signed up, participants are grouped with other players of similar age and experience levels. Each session is approximately 45 minutes long and led by a trained facilitator.
During these sessions, students play one of Synthesis’s original games, each with specific learning objectives. Games are designed to be difficult and open-ended. Rather than being given instructions or answers, students must explore, hypothesize, test strategies, and work with their teammates to win or improve their performance over time.
After the game, facilitators lead brief discussions, encouraging students to reflect on their choices, the group’s dynamics, and the lessons learned. This structured reflection helps deepen the educational value of the experience.
Students participate once a week but can choose to add more sessions based on their interest and subscription plan. The games evolve regularly, so content remains fresh, challenging, and engaging.
Use Cases
Synthesis is well-suited for a variety of educational contexts and needs.
For parents seeking enrichment outside of school, Synthesis provides a structured, high-quality activity that builds future-ready skills.
For homeschool families, it offers a collaborative, social learning opportunity that’s often missing from solo education environments.
For gifted or advanced students, Synthesis presents intellectual challenges that traditional curricula may not offer.
Educators looking for alternative teaching methods can use Synthesis as a supplemental tool to enhance project-based learning and group dynamics.
It’s also useful in afterschool programs or as part of gifted and talented initiatives, offering students a chance to develop practical soft skills like communication, adaptability, and teamwork.
Pricing
As of the most recent update from the official Synthesis website, the platform offers a subscription-based model with monthly and annual options:
Standard Plan
$180 per quarter or $600 per year
Includes weekly, 45-minute live game sessions
Access to all core Synthesis games
Led by trained facilitators
Regular feedback and performance reports
Add-On Options
Additional sessions per week can be added for an extra fee
Occasional workshops and masterclasses available (pricing varies)
Synthesis also offers a free trial session to allow families to experience the platform before committing to a subscription. The team provides guidance on onboarding and technical requirements.
Strengths
One of the greatest strengths of Synthesis is its ability to teach complex, real-world skills in a way that feels like play. The games are intelligently designed, balancing fun with depth and intellectual rigor.
The focus on open-ended problem-solving is particularly valuable, as students must make decisions without being spoon-fed solutions. This builds independent thought and resilience.
Another major benefit is the collaborative nature of the platform. Students learn to work with others in a diverse, global environment, building communication skills and leadership potential.
The facilitation model ensures that sessions are not just freeform play; instead, each game becomes a structured learning experience with targeted reflection and feedback.
For parents, the insights provided through progress reports help track their child’s engagement and growth over time, adding transparency and value.
Drawbacks
While Synthesis offers a unique and valuable educational experience, there are some limitations to consider.
The platform is not intended to replace a full academic curriculum. It complements core learning but does not focus on traditional subjects like math, science, or language arts.
The cost, while reasonable for many families, may still be a barrier for those looking for more budget-friendly enrichment options. Since sessions are only once a week by default, the cost-per-session may feel high without added frequency.
Another consideration is that the platform relies heavily on access to a reliable internet connection and a modern computer. Families without consistent access to these resources may find it challenging to participate effectively.
Finally, because the platform is game-based, some students may initially perceive it as “just for fun” and may need support to understand and apply the educational takeaways.
Comparison with Other Tools
Unlike academic-focused platforms like Khan Academy or IXL, which emphasize content mastery, Synthesis is designed to enhance soft skills and cognitive agility. It does not teach direct subject content but instead focuses on how students learn, make decisions, and collaborate.
Compared to coding or STEM-specific platforms such as Tynker or Brilliant, Synthesis is more philosophical and strategic, providing less in the way of technical skill-building and more in personal development.
What sets it apart is its focus on team-based problem-solving through competitive play, which is not the primary format of most educational platforms.
Customer Reviews and Testimonials
Synthesis has received positive feedback from parents, students, and educators alike. Many highlight how engaged their children are and how much they look forward to the sessions.
Parents often note that their children show increased confidence in speaking up, making decisions, and explaining their reasoning after participating in Synthesis games.
Some testimonials from the Synthesis website include comments like:
“My child is learning more in one session of Synthesis than in a week of school group work.”
“Synthesis is unlike anything else. It pushes kids to think deeply and work as a team without hand-holding.”
“My 10-year-old can’t wait for the next session. The quality of thinking and communication is amazing to watch.”
Many parents report that the platform helps their children develop skills not addressed by standard education, such as negotiation, teamwork under pressure, and ethical reasoning.
Conclusion
Synthesis offers a unique and powerful alternative to traditional learning by focusing on the skills that matter most in an unpredictable, fast-moving world. Through team-based strategy games and guided collaboration, it builds critical thinking, communication, and leadership in a format that children enjoy and engage with deeply.
While it isn’t a complete academic solution, Synthesis is an excellent complement to existing education models. It’s ideal for families seeking to go beyond the basics and give their children a meaningful edge in thinking, learning, and working with others.
For those looking to future-proof their child’s education with engaging and intellectually rich experiences, Synthesis is worth exploring.
