Thought games were just for fun? Think again. While it’s fine to use games to simply unwind after a long day in the office, you can also use games as a way to train your brain. In doing so, you’ll be on your way to thinking clearly, having improved cognitive function, and giving your memory a boost, too.
Of course, not every game will enhance your brain’s capabilities. The majority of games, especially mobile games, exist purely for entertainment purposes. In this post, we’ll take a look at six challenging games, all of which are available both online and offline, that’ll give your mind a thorough workout.
Chess
Chess is probably the ultimate ‘thinking person’ game. It’s been around for more than 1500 years, and part of its enduring appeal is the sheer challenge that it presents players. Studies have shown time and time again that it can help contribute to solid overall mental well-being. Not only does it improve focus and concentration, but it can also increase creative capabilities and may even raise your IQ; one study found that the average IQ of a chess player was a staggering 21 points higher than the IQ of the average person. The Queen’s Gambit has brought chess back into the mainstream, and there are plenty of apps you can use to learn the basics. From there, you can get the brain benefits by playing as often as you can, ideally against slightly superior players.
Poker
Looking to give your brain a workout while also having fun? Then try poker. This popular card game originated in New Orleans some 200 hundred years ago and is still as popular as ever. While there’s an element of luck involved — you can’t choose which cards are drawn for you — most of a player’s performance comes down to their critical thinking and problem-solving skills, both of which are fantastic for keeping the mind sharp. With a little effort, the rules of poker online are easily understood in half an hour or so, and from there, you’ll be ready to do battle at a virtual table or at home with friends. Over time, you’ll likely also find that your concentration levels have increased, too, offering an additional brain boost.
Sudoku
Sudoku, a game invented by puzzle constructor Howard Garns in 1979, has been shown to improve short-term memory among players. And that perhaps shouldn’t come as a surprise, since the game relies on short-term memory for success. There are other mental advantages to playing sudoku, too, including improving logical thinking and problem-solving skills. This is a hugely popular game, and it’s easy to find both online and offline. It’s recommended to start with entry-level games before making your way to more difficult levels once you’ve got the basics. As a one-person game, it’s an ideal game to play during your commute.
Crossword Puzzles
Crosswords force you to dig deep into the depths of your existing knowledge and critical thinking skills to complete the game. A Harvard study found that a daily crossword practice may enhance thinking skills and memory, and may also prevent brain shrinkage. In addition, regular players also extend their vocabulary, since the game routinely presents new words during gameplay. It’s a slow, stress-free activity that’s available in many forms, including both online and offline. Note that the brain benefits of crosswords only apply to cryptic crosswords, not general knowledge crosswords.
Wordle
So far, the games we’ve mentioned on this list can all be considered “classics” — after all, both poker and chess have been around for centuries. Wordle, the New York Times daily puzzle game, is a modern offering that has also been shown to have brain-boosting benefits. Studies have shown that Wordle, which was released in October 2021, can improve neuron connections and increase grey matter, both of which help to keep the brain healthy. Only one Wordle game is released per day, so you can’t play it too much. If you love word games, then consider Scrabble, which offers many of the same benefits.
