Video Games that Improve Executive Function

Video games often get a bad reputation, but it may surprise you that they can have a number of benefits for executive function.

What is executive function?

• Working memory: the ability to hold and manipulate information in your mind
• Attention: the ability to focus on a task and ignore distractions
• Problem-solving: the ability to identify and solve problems
• Planning and organization: the ability to set goals and develop strategies to achieve them
• Flexibility: the ability to adapt to changing situations
• Decision-making: the ability to weigh options and make choices

Studies have shown that playing video games can improve executive function in both children and adults. For example, one study found that children who played action video games for 10 hours a week for 5 weeks showed improvements in their working memory, attention, and problem-solving skills.Another study found that adults who played action video games for 30 minutes a day for 2 weeks showed improvements in their attention and decision-making skills.

The type of video game that you play can also affect the benefits that you receive.

For example, action video games that require players to quickly react to changing situations and make decisions can be more beneficial for improving executive function than puzzle games or strategy games.It's important to note that playing video games should not be the only way that you improve your executive function. There are many other activities that can also help, such as exercise, meditation, and brain training exercises.If you are looking for ways to improve your executive function, playing video games can be a fun and effective way to do so. However, it is important to choose video games that are challenging and require you to use your cognitive skills. It is also important to play video games in moderation, as too much screen time can have negative effects on your health.

There are several video games that can help improve executive function skills, including:

1. Monument Valley: This puzzle game requires players to navigate through a series of optical illusions and manipulate objects in order to reach the end of each level. It helps improve spatial reasoning and problem-solving skills.
2. Portal 2: This first-person puzzle game requires players to use logic and critical thinking to solve increasingly complex puzzles. It helps improve problem-solving skills, working memory, and planning abilities.
3. Super Mario Odyssey: This adventure game requires players to navigate through different environments, solve puzzles, and collect items. It helps improve spatial reasoning, attention, and planning skills.
4. Minecraft: This open-world sandbox game allows players to explore, create, and build in a virtual world. It helps improve planning and problem-solving skills, as well as creativity and spatial reasoning.
5. Brain Age: This brain-training game includes a series of puzzles and challenges that help improve memory, attention, and processing speed.
6. Shadow of the Colossus: This action-adventure game requires players to use critical thinking and problem-solving skills to defeat a series of giant monsters. It helps improve planning, organization, and decision-making skills.

While playing video games should not be used as a replacement for other forms of therapy or interventions, they can be a fun and engaging way to help improve executive function skills