A.R.A

Playing games, specifically strategy and puzzle games, can boost your ability to think critically and boost your memory.

A website for ARC Academy, a university in Sofia, Bulgaria that is known for specializing in game creation states, “Games are a great way to exercise our minds, and the millennial generation is the first to realize this. Contrary to outdated beliefs, time spent on Minecraft (or any other game) is not wasted.”

At ARC Academy, they also discuss how playing games can help improve problem- solving abilities. More complex games like Magic of the gathering (mystical battling card game), Dungeons and Dragons (a group event while role playing made up characters on a quest), and Project Zomboid (a game where you need to survive the apocalypse) help players analyze and make decisions on the objects or situations at hand in a timed manner.

A good example of a game that aids thinking and memory is the well-known Minecraft. As a current player, Minecraft is a game where you can build your own world, collect your own materials, and explore without consequence. ARC Academy mentions how Minecraft is commonly played by kids and teens.  Minecraft helps kids and teens remember by consistently having to realize their geological location. Minecraft helps people’s thinking skills by having to figure out where to get materials, how many materials they need, and so on.

For those who don’t have the extended time, quick and easy problem-solving games also help critical thinking

Anna Braunsdorf from Elevate labs , a company working towards improving others lives, tates, “In a world that appreciates fast thinking and adaptability, problem-solving games have become an effective way to keep the mind sharp and encourage ongoing learning. From traditional puzzles to immersive escape rooms, these games challenge the mind in fun and engaging ways, promoting critical thinking, creativity, and strategic planning.” Elevate labs was also was awarded Apple’s app of the year with there app Balence.

Playing in escape rooms, strategy games, math and logic games, and so on can help incorporate problem-solving in your day-to-day life. A great strategy game to play with friends would be Catan and Risk. Both are fun strategy games that take time and are worth the wait. Games like Total War: War Hammer III and Stellaris, both options are online that you can play with others around the world and are slightly more violent compared to the board game options.

There are also apps on your phone you can get like word games, math games, and so on that are more accessible for those with little time to spare.