Strategy games are a type of video game that requires players to use their analytical and critical thinking skills to make decisions. These games are designed to simulate real-life situations and require players to strategize and plan their moves to achieve their objectives. While many people enjoy playing strategy games for entertainment, some researchers have suggested that these games may have cognitive benefits as well. In this article, we will explore whether strategy games make you smarter.
What are strategy games?
Strategy games are a popular genre of video games that require players to use their brains to solve problems and achieve objectives. These games typically involve building and managing resources, developing strategies, and making decisions in real-time. Some popular examples of strategy games include chess, checkers, and Risk.
The cognitive benefits of strategy games
Research has suggested that playing strategy games can have a range of cognitive benefits. For example, a study published in the journal PLoS ONE found that playing real-time strategy games improved participants' cognitive flexibility, working memory, and task-switching abilities. Another study published in the journal Intelligence found that playing strategy games was associated with higher scores on measures of fluid intelligence, which is the ability to solve new problems and think abstractly.
Why strategy games may make you smarter
There are several reasons why playing strategy games may make you smarter. First, these games require players to think critically and make decisions based on available information. This can help improve problem-solving and decision-making skills, which are essential for success in many areas of life. Second, playing strategy games can help improve working memory, which is the ability to hold information in the mind and use it to perform tasks. Finally, playing strategy games can help improve cognitive flexibility, which is the ability to switch between different tasks and adapt to changing situations.
Other benefits of playing strategy games
In addition to cognitive benefits, playing strategy games can have other positive effects on mental health. For example, a study published in the journal Computers in Human Behavior found that playing strategy games was associated with reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety. Another study published in the journal Cyberpsychology, Behavior, and Social Networking found that playing strategy games was associated with increased self-esteem and feelings of competence.
Conclusion
Overall, the evidence suggests that playing strategy games can have cognitive benefits and may make you smarter. These games require players to use their brains to solve complex problems and make decisions, which can help improve cognitive function. Additionally, playing strategy games can have other positive effects on mental health, such as reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. So the next time you play a strategy game, remember that it might be doing more than just providing entertainment!
