For years, video games were seen as a simple pastime, even associated with wasted time or lack of productivity. However, in recent decades, numerous scientific studies have begun to show another side: video games may be closely related to the development of intelligence and various cognitive skills.
What do we mean by intelligence in this context?
Intelligence is not just the ability to solve equations or memorize data. It includes skills such as:
- Logical and strategic thinking.
- Problem solving.
- Memory and attention.
- Creativity.
- Emotional and social intelligence.
Video games, especially certain genres, stimulate several of these capabilities.
How video games enhance intelligence.
1. Improve problem-solving skills.
Games like The Legend of Zelda or Portal force players to think logically, look for creative solutions and adapt to new challenges.
2. They increase memory and attention.
Role-playing games(RPGs) require remembering maps, quests, rules and skills, training working memory and concentration.
3. They favor quick decision making.
Shooters or action games such as Call of Duty or Fortnite require processing visual and auditory information in fractions of a second, which improves reaction speed.
4. Develop spatial skills.
3D video games train orientation and the ability to visualize complex spaces, something useful in disciplines such as architecture, engineering or even medicine.
5. They promote cooperation and social intelligence.
Online multiplayer games(League of Legends, World of Warcraft) require teamwork, leadership, communication and empathy to achieve common goals.
6. Stimulate creativity.
Construction games such as Minecraft or The Sims allow players to design worlds, structures and stories, sparking imagination and innovation.
Do all video games develop intelligence?
Not all games have the same impact. Those that most enhance cognitive abilities are usually those that pose challenges, require strategy or demand collaboration.
On the other hand, games that are too repetitive or purely casual provide little benefit beyond entertainment.
Video games and education.
More and more institutions are incorporating “gamification” in teaching, taking advantage of the motivation and interactivity of video games to teach mathematics, history, languages or programming.
There are even games specifically designed to train memory, logic or attention, such as brain training programs.
We show you 15 video games recommended to train the mind and intelligence, divided by skills they develop:
🧩 Problem solving and logic.
- Portal 1 and 2 – Portal puzzles that challenge physics and ingenuity.
- The Talos Principle – Highly complex philosophy and logic puzzles.
- The Witness – An exploration game full of visual puzzles.
🎯 Attention and reaction speed.
- Call of Duty (multiplayer mode) – Quick decisions in action environments.
- Fortnite – Strategy and building under pressure in real time.
- Overwatch – Team shooting game that requires coordination and reflexes.
🌍 S trategy and planning.
- Civilization VI – Build entire civilizations by making political, economic and military decisions.
- StarCraft II – Real-time strategy that combines speed and planning.
- XCOM 2 – Tactical strategy with resource management and turn-based combat.
🧠 Cognitive training and memory.
- Lumosity (Brain Training) – Scientifically designed games to train memory, attention and logic.
- Big Brain Academy – Mini-challenges of calculation, memory and quick thinking.
- Brain Age – Mental exercises that stimulate cognitive agility.
🎨 Creativity and open thinking.
- Minecraft – Free construction and design that empowers imagination and problem solving.
- LittleBigPlanet – Create levels and experiences, stimulating innovation.
- The Sims – Life simulation that develops planning, strategy and creativity.
👉 These games range from challenging puzzles to complex strategies and open worlds, all with a strong cognitive development component.
Conclusion.
Video games are not enemies of intelligence, but a powerful tool to develop it when used properly. Playing not only entertains, but also trains the brain, enhances social skills and awakens creativity.
🎮 The key is balance: combining enjoyment with the choice of games that provide a real mental challenge.
