Although we typically associate games with entertainment and passing time, certain games can also improve memory function and focus. Research suggests that problem-solving in games, including Sudoku, crosswords and even some video games, can stimulate areas of the brain associated with memory and cognitive skills. Playing these games regularly is not only fun but also beneficial to your brain. 

How Games Affect Our Brains

The human brain is a remarkably complex organ that has evolved over millions of years to give us the best chance of survival. It’s able to receive data from its senses, process the information and then send out signals to control the body’s response. One of the major adaptations seen in humans is our ability to learn and create lasting memories, which improves our response time and effectiveness based on previous experiences. 

Activity in the brain consists of electrical impulses between neurons, and when we learn new information, such as the rules of a game, a new connection is formed between neurons. This connection travels along a synapse, and the connection becomes stronger with regular use. However, connections can just as easily become weaker or disappear completely if they’re not used. That’s why you might forget how to play a game that you haven’t played for a while. However, if you play it every day for years, you’re unlikely to ever forget the rules. 

The changing landscape of our neurons and synapses is known as neuroplasticity, and it’s a key concept in how our brains develop over time. While most of our learning and brain development happens at an early age, it’s still possible to improve memory and focus later on in life. Studies have also revealed that the hippocampus of the adult brain can form brand new neurons in a process known as neurogenesis.

Aside from synapses, the brain also communicates with other areas of the brain using neurotransmitters such as dopamine. This is released by rewarding stimuli, such as playing an entertaining game, and encourages repeat behaviour. As a result, we associate playing the game with a positive feeling and are motivated to continue doing it. 

How much we enjoy something really affects how well we learn and form new memories. Not only are we more likely to complete a task if it feels enjoyable, but our focus will also be greater. For this reason, games can be an effective tool for learning and developing memories. 

Different Kinds of Brain-Boosting Games

Games can be a great way to improve neuroplasticity, creating stronger connections between neurons in our brains. Research suggests that many different kinds of games can be effective, although they’re not a magic pill to make you smarter. Here are a few different game types which can improve neural connections and boost your memory and focus:

Strategy-Focused Board Games and Card Games

Many classic board games and card games require careful strategy and forward thinking to get ahead. Even when games have relatively simple rules, they can still offer a lot of depth and strategy, which means the brain is working overtime to recall memories and react to stimuli. Chess is an excellent example of this, where anyone can learn the rules, but it can take many years of careful study and practice to truly master. It’s an excellent game for boosting memory and focus, as you’ll need to outsmart your opponent to win.

Puzzle Games

Puzzles are games that require problem-solving to complete. These can include Sudoku, crosswords, Mahjong, Minesweeper and Nonograms. Each puzzle will typically have a unique solution, and there are many different puzzles of varying difficulty levels. To solve a puzzle, players have to think logically and act within the rules. The brain is required to focus in order to complete the puzzle, and playing puzzles regularly can improve memory function too. 

Online Games

There are more online games available than ever, and while not all of these will be beneficial for boosting your memory and focus, there are many more that will. Online versions of puzzle games are available, and you can also play card games such as solitaire, poker and blackjack. Playing blackjack requires careful strategy to know the best move to beat the dealer based on your own hand and the dealer’s face-up card. You can use a blackjack strategy chart to help decide whether to stand, hit, split or double down. 

Video Games

Some video games are also beneficial for improving your brain function. Even though video games are typically associated with passive entertainment, many modern games feature puzzles and improve the brain’s ability to multitask. Tetris is a classic game that involves moving bricks into the right position in order to complete levels. However, there are also many more recent releases, such as Portal 2, which have been shown to improve cognitive abilities. 

Getting the Most Out of Your Playing Experience

While playing games for memory function and focus, it’s important to make sure your sessions are effective. It’s easy to fall into pitfalls that will result in your time being wasted. Here are a few tips you can follow:

• Make sure you choose the right game – It’s important to choose a game that matches your personal goals and your learning style. It should also be age-appropriate and have a difficulty setting that is challenging without being frustrating. 
• Short sessions are better – It’s better to play regularly for a short period of time rather than playing for extended periods every so often. Frequent sessions help form stronger connections, and keeping them short means you’ll be focused the whole time. 
• Combine with other healthy habits – Playing games can be an excellent way to improve your memory and focus, but it’s not enough on its own. Make sure you’re also getting enough sleep, exercising regularly and following a healthy, balanced diet.
• Track your progress – When you’re working towards specific goals such as improving your memory and focus, it’s important to track your progress. Make notes on how difficult you found it at the start, and how you’re improving as you play more. This will help you stay motivated and see how well you’re progressing. 
• Play with friends – Playing games with friends is an excellent way to work on your teamwork and communication skills while also improving memory and having lots of fun. Social gameplay provides lots of additional benefits, and working with friends means you’ll also be able to motivate each other.