We all think of video games as fun pastimes, but did you know that they also offer proven, measurable cognitive benefits? From strengthening memory and problem-solving to enhancing focus and verbal fluency, there’s a game to stimulate every area of your brain. Whether you’re a puzzle addict or a role-play enthusiast, here are five games that will help you stay sharp while having fun.
Puzzle games: Brain teasers to improve logic and deduction
If you want games that will translate easily into everyday activities like packing a suitcase, or solving workplace problems, then puzzle games are for you. Quick and easy classics like Sudoku or Tetris will challenge you to apply logic, spot patterns, and work out solutions – and they’re even more effective if you play them under time constraints. Try apps like Lumosity and Peak for new ways to stretch your mental muscles and improve spatial awareness, your ability to plan strategically, and even working memory.
Strategy games: Think more tactically and critically
If you prefer something a bit more demanding, and with higher stakes, strategy games require a hefty dose of foresight, planning, and calculated risk-taking. Whether you’re lining up chess moves on a board or online, or diving into some of the top slot games with friends, be warned that the cognitive load is significant. But the real-life payoff is well worth it. You’ll be better at assessing situations, allocating resources (handy for meal planning and grocery shopping), and adapting under pressure (think work meetings and tense social situations).
Role-playing games: Memory mastery and problem-solving
Want to immerse yourself in a fantastical world while improving your memory and decision-making skills? Role-playing games (RPGs) like Dungeons & Dragons invite you to become part of complex worlds where memory, a vivid imagination, and decision-making are constantly at play and often the key to your very survival. From remembering intricate backstories and mythologies to having to navigate through branching storylines, you truly get a full-brain workout as you make critical choices and engage in dialogue with other players. Make it a social event with friends by hosting a D&D game night and improving your problem-solving skills as you go on a quest together.
Word games: Grow your vocab and fluency
Language-based games like classic Scrabble, or the newer Wordle, have long been known to stimulate verbal reasoning and quick recall. Even crosswords and simple word searches can introduce you to new words or reinforce connections between words and phrases. These games can also be especially beneficial for children’s language development. Try apps like Elevate to help you improve your communication and writing skills through short daily linguistic exercises.
Memory games: Better focus and recall
Do you find yourself forgetting things? There are numerous games that will train your brain to retain and recall short-term information. From old-school Simon Says to online memory grid games (where you must remember shapes or patterns on a grid), through to matching card games like Concentration, these options are simple but effective at improving focus. Even simple ‘spot the difference’ puzzles will heighten your attention to detail as you scrutinise the details of the pictures.
Gaming time as brain training time
Whether puzzles, strategies, or language-based challenges, why not add a few of these brain-boosting games to your daily or weekly routine? Whether you’ve got five minutes or a full evening, you can look forward to a fun time with the added bonus of mental stimulation.