Computer Games that Develop Concentration and Memory
Teachers are increasingly using gaming in the classroom because they recognise its benefits in terms of engagement, memory and concentration. This is confirmed by recent research which found that childhood gaming can have a long-term positive impact on memory.
According to a study published in the journal Frontiers in Neuroscience, “People who were avid gamers before adolescence, despite no longer playing, performed better with the working memory tasks which require mentally holding and manipulating information to get a result.”
Many kids enjoy gaming in their spare time, but not all games are created equal. In fact, another study found that children who played violent games were more prone to attention-deficit problems.
Here are our recommendations for quality games which will help enhance your child’s focus and memory.
Super Mario 64
In this game the emphasis is on searching and exploration within immense worlds. Players must complete diverse missions as well as overcome traditional linear obstacles.
A study involving players of Super Mario 64 found a significant increase in grey matter associated with ‘spatial orientation, memory formation, and strategic planning, as well as fine motor skills.’ This game was also used in the study mentioned above, which found evidence of ongoing benefits of gaming for memory.
Civilization
Civilization is not a single game, but rather a series of games designed to educate children about the world. It has been continually transformed and updated since it was released in 1991 to keep players engaged.
Civilization 6 is considered one of the greatest strategy games of all time. Players strategize to rule the world by building civilization, beginning from the dawn of humanity and advancing to the space age. In addition to helping with concentration and memory, this game can teach children about choices and consequences.
Starcraft
In this science fiction strategy game, alien species fight to become dominant. Each species has its own fighting units and requires unique strategies to win. Players must build and maintain units, helping them learn about resource management.
A study on Starcraft found that it enhanced ‘brain flexibility’ because players have to allocate resources under constantly changing circumstances. The benefits for memory and concentration are also significant.
Minecraft
In this popular open-world, sandbox game players perform a wide range of activities, including building, exploring and combat. While Minecraft is nonlinear and there are no set goals, there are different modes which offer distinct mechanics and gameplay features.
One of the great attractions of open-world, sandbox games is the autonomy and choice they offer. Minecraft is highly engaging and stimulating for kids, helping to enhance their memory and mental focus. Minecraft has also been found to extend children’s reasoning and spatial skills.
Portal
Players in Portal must plot their escape from an evil lab with only a portal gun to help them. This gun creates one entry and one exit portal at any time. When players enter through a blue portal, they exit an orange one, and vice-versa.
To escape traps, players must carefully plan out their steps. The portal gun’s usefulness grows as the game’s difficulty increases. There are many possible solutions to the puzzles, and players must use both logic and creativity to solve them, as well as memory and concentration.
Quality games have many benefits for children.