10 Video Game Titles That Could Help Sharpen Your Mind

Ever since video games became a popular past time for the young, parents have nervously worried about ill side effects of too much game playing. While it’s true playing video games all day long and into the night can be bad for developing minds, some games can actually have a positive impact on the brain and help to sharpen the mind. People of all ages can take advantage of the brain training exercises you could get with certain popular video game titles.

Here are 10 video games to try to help you or your family get some extra brain training.

1. “Civilization”

Making decisions and planning an effective strategy in game play is a great way to get some mental stimulation. One game series that helps individuals use these mental gymnastics techniques is the “Civilization” title. In the game, players act as world rulers and must develop and build their civilization, starting with primitive times and leading into the future and beyond. The most recent volume of this series, “Civilization 6,” was released online in 2016.

2. “Sim City”

Simulation video games are common tools that many companies and government organizations use to help prepare workers for specific jobs. Flight simulators are popular among the airline industry to help train new pilots for the demands of the job. For the home video game player, a great title to help develop some important urban planning skills is “Sim City.” This game was most recently updated for a 2014 new release called “Sim City Buildit.”

3. “Little Big Planet”

Solving puzzles can also help people of all ages develop better thinking and analytical skills. One popular puzzle game that can help you stretch your thinking skills is “Little Big Planet.” The most recent release of the series, “Little Big Planet 3,” from 2014, had players creating custom content and unlocking game secrets through a massive network of user-created details.

4. “Madden NFL”

Playing sports games on a video console can also help game enthusiasts sharpen their mental abilities. Most sports video games put players into the coach’s or manager’s role and have them building teams, planning game strategies, and running plays. One of the most popular and rewarding video game experiences for sports was the “Madden NFL” series, which released its 2018 version in the summer of 2017.

5. “Minecraft”

“Minecraft” is another popular title that can help children through adults learn, build, and think. This game series has put users in charge of creating, developing, and influencing the world of the game around them. Players are transported into a virtual Lego world where they can take their imagination to new levels.

6. “Body and Brain Challenge”

Sometimes, it’s a good idea to invest time in some mental exercises that could help prevent dementia or memory loss later down the road. One game that could help maintain those important brain skills is the “Body and Brain Challenge” on the Microsoft Xbox console. This game series helped develop pattern recognition, memory, and math skills.

7. “Diablo”

Another type of video game experience that helps sharpen the mind is the role-playing game. These types of games help individuals strengthen their logical reasoning skills and decision making abilities. The popular game “Diablo,” was recently released again for its 20th anniversary. This game had players navigating a unique fantasy world, learning spells, and defeating enemies. Keen players of this game can find numerous d2r items for sale to help take their character to the next level on sites like Yesgamers. 

8. “Call of Duty”

First person shooters, like the classic game “Call of Duty” from Activision and its CEO Bobby Kotick, have always been known to help develop better visual awareness and spatial reasoning skills. Even the military has recognized the benefits of first person shooters and has used them in its recruiting and training programs for soldiers.

9. “Luminosity Brain Trainer”

For people who want regular mental exercises as part of their routine, the mobile app game “Luminosity Brain Trainer” is a perfect title. This game has migrated to the mobile app platform for most popular smartphones, including iPhones and Androids. The game sends users a new brain puzzle to figure out each day, or players can spend some time completing a series of individual puzzles to help sharpen those thinking skills. Seniors, who may not have the time or technological skills to operate video game consoles, have found this game useful.

10. “Just Dance”

A healthy and fit body is another way you can help sharpen your mental skills and keep yourself feeling young for a much longer time. A game that combines physical activity with memorization and mental gymnastics is the “Just Dance” series. This dance-based game can help users learn new combinations and stay fit while practicing their dance moves. The connection with a healthy body and a sharp mind is yet another way to improve your wellness.

Today’s video game titles go beyond the standard game play that has been associated with mindless entertainment. More games than ever can help people exercise their brain and sharpen their thinking skills a few minutes a day. With these video games, you can stay sharp and focused for many years.