Feeling like your brain is stuck on shuffle lately? Juggling family, work, and the ever-growing to-do list can leave our most important organ feeling sluggish. But what if the secret to a sharper mind wasn’t hiding in dusty textbooks but lurking in the world of games? Yes, research suggests that strategically designed games are more than just a fun distraction, as they could be the key to unlocking a sharper brain. Intrigued? Dive deeper with us as we explore how the power of play can transform your cognitive fitness!
Scrabble
Alfred Mosher Butts was an architect frustrated by the uneven distribution of letters in existing word games. So, in 1938, he invented Scrabble to test vocabulary and strategic thinking. Players take turns building words on a crossword-style board, scoring points based on letter values and word placement.
Sudoku
Believe it or not, the mathematical puzzle we know as Sudoku has roots stretching back centuries. While similar puzzles existed, Sudoku’s modern form was credited to Howard Garns of Conover, Wisconsin, in 1979. However, it was in the 1980s, when Nikoli published it in Japan, that Sudoku took the world by storm.
Lumosity
Lumosity is a personalized brain training program founded in 2007 by neuroscientists. It offers a variety of science-backed games designed to target memory, attention, flexibility, processing speed, and problem-solving. The program tailors itself to your performance, offering new challenges as you progress.
Wordle
Taking the world by storm in 2021, Wordle has a simple yet addictive concept. It was invented by Josh Wardle, challenging you to guess a five-letter word in six tries. After each guess, the letters change color to indicate if they’re in the wrong spot, the right spot, or not in the word at all.
NeuroNation
A team of neuroscientists and game developers developed NeuroNation to offer a unique approach to brain training. This app utilizes a complex algorithm to assess your cognitive strengths and weaknesses, then personalizes a training program with over 60 brain training exercises. Targeting memory, attention, focus, and reasoning, NeuroNation offers a data-driven approach to brain fitness.
Elevate
Are you short on time but still want to sharpen your mind? Elevate offers mobile games to improve critical thinking, processing speed, memory, comprehension, and precision. These bite-sized challenges can be completed in just a few minutes, making Elevate the perfect brain training companion for busy schedules.
Braingle
For those who love a good challenge, Braingle is a treasure trove of brain teasers, logic puzzles, and word games. The website offers a library of free puzzles catering to all difficulty levels and problem-solving styles. From tricky riddles to visual puzzles, Braingle is a great way to test your lateral thinking, boost creativity, and keep your mind guessing.
Fit Brains Trainer
Fit Brains Trainer takes a holistic approach to brain health. This app offers games designed to target memory, focus, problem-solving, and even emotional well-being. With personalized training plans, daily challenges, and progress tracking, Fit Brains Trainer helps you stay motivated and see results.
Mensa Brain Training
Put your brain to the ultimate test with Mensa Brain Training. Developed in collaboration with Mensa, the high IQ society, this app offers a variety of challenging games designed to push your cognitive limits. From logic puzzles to memory challenges, these games will test your problem-solving skills and mental agility.
Chess
Developed in the 6th century, Chess is a battle of strategy, foresight, and tactical brilliance. While the exact origins remain debated, Chess has captivated players for centuries. The game’s objective is to checkmate your opponent’s king. This strategic game improves critical thinking, planning skills, problem-solving, and spatial reasoning.
MindPal
Do you want a brain training program that goes beyond just cognitive challenges? MindPal incorporates mindfulness exercises alongside brain training games. More than 25 million players play these games to improve focus, memory, and emotional well-being through meditation techniques and memory challenges.
Solitaire
Solitaire isn’t just a time-filler but a surprisingly effective brain trainer! This single-player card game, believed to have originated in France in the 18th century, requires strategic thinking and planning to arrange cards in a specific order. Solitaire improves concentration, problem-solving skills, and spatial reasoning as you map out your moves to clear the board.
Memorado
This app uses science-backed techniques to target different aspects of memory, including short-term, working, and long-term memory. Through various engaging games and exercises, Memorado helps you improve your ability to remember names, faces, facts, and even locations. Whether you’re a student cramming for exams or simply looking to sharpen your recall abilities, Memorado offers an effective way to boost your memory.
Happy Neuron
Brain training shouldn’t feel like a chore. Happy Neuron offers engaging and visually appealing games to target memory, attention, logic, and reasoning. With a focus on positive reinforcement and a cheerful aesthetic, Happy Neuron makes brain training an enjoyable experience.
Checkers
Some people believe that Checkers’ roots go back to Ancient Egypt. It’s a fantastic exercise in strategic thinking and planning, and the objective is to capture all your opponent’s pieces or render them unable to move. Checkers helps improve focus, problem-solving skills, and spatial reasoning in a simple yet engaging way. Plus, the quick gameplay makes it a perfect choice for a short but stimulating brain break.