Why You Should Play Video Games That Challenge Your Brain
Believe it or not, but to a degree, there is a problem with modern gaming. Here, just picture this for just a moment: you’ve just spent an hour on a game where you’ve clicked the same button a hundred times to collect meaningless coins, or maybe you’ve been stuck on an infuriatingly impossible level that’s left you ready to throw the controller across the room (or maybe its someone in the game making you mad).
Or perhaps you’ve gone the “cosy” route (like Stardew Valley or Animal Crossing), or maybe you’re just floating around in a game so laid-back it feels like your brain is taking a nap. The problem? No, this can’t be a problem, right? Well, for the most part, none of these leave you feeling satisfied. Instead, you’re either bored, angry, or wondering why you even bothered.
Well, this is the reality nowadays when it comes to video games; seriously, it is. Well, games have always been like this to a degree; they’re meant to be entertaining, after all, but at the same time, they should be challenging your brain, too. Basically, your brain needs to have a workout; you need to be able to really think and get the blood pumping. Playing something that’s too hard or too easy isn’t actually the best for your cognitive health, either. So, with all of that said, here’s what you need to know!
Why Mindless Games Just Don’t Cut It
There’s a certain appeal to mindless games: they’re easy, they don’t require effort, and they give you that quick hit of “Oh, I achieved something!” But in all honesty, they’re about as satisfying as eating a plain rice cake. Sure, they pass the time, but do they really leave you feeling accomplished or challenged? Yeah, not so much.
Well, here’s the thing: the problem with mindless games is that they rely on repetitive mechanics that don’t engage your brain. For example, it’s endless swiping to match coloured blocks or tapping endlessly to rack up points. They’re designed to be addictive without actually offering any depth. After a while, your brain just zones out, and you’re left feeling a bit… flat.
Do you remember when you were a kid, and your parents wouldn’t want you watching too much TV because it “rots the brain”? Well, it’s basically that concept (and garbage games like this are even known as “Brain Rot”).
But even those super “cosy” games, while lovely for a bit of relaxation, can sometimes go too far in the other direction. If there’s no challenge, no problem-solving, and nothing to really stretch your mind, it’s less like gaming and more like passively scrolling through a playlist of pretty scenes. Lovely, yes, but where’s the mental workout? Sure, sometimes they’re fine, but sometimes a mind bender can also be “cosy”. For example, City Skylines makes you think while, at the same time, it’s pretty relaxed.
The Problem with Games That Make You Mad
On the flip side, there are the games that practically exist to wind you up. If it’s literally not the game, then it’s going to be that community that’s going to do it to you instead. Besides, there are video game communities out there that are fully known for being super toxic. Do you really want to be a part of that? So, these are the ones that promise a fun challenge but end up delivering frustration in spades.
These kinds of games can be emotionally draining; they’re not even relaxing! Instead of engaging your brain in a healthy way, they ramp up your stress levels, triggering that fight-or-flight response. Your body might not know the difference between being chased by a virtual monster and dealing with a real-life argument and that constant adrenaline rush. It’s exhausting.
Sure, some people thrive on the “git gud” philosophy, but for most, these games are less about fun and more about frustration.
Why You Should Consider Playing Brain-Teasing Games More
Okay, so this is where brain-teasing games shine. They’re not mindless, they’re not maddening, they’re just right. Plus, these games strike the perfect balance between fun and challenge, engaging your brain without overwhelming it.
They Keep Your Brain in Shape
Just go ahead and think of brain-teasing games as a gym session for your mind, except you don’t have to leave your sofa (or bed). Over time, this kind of mental exercise has real benefits. It can improve your focus, boost your problem-solving skills, and even sharpen your memory. It’s like doing a crossword puzzle but with cooler graphics and soundtracks.
They’re Incredibly Rewarding
There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of cracking a tricky level or solving a puzzle that had you stumped. Plus, brain-teasing games reward effort and persistence. You’re more likely to get an “aha” moment from this than any other type of game. It’s basically the kind of feeling that keeps you coming back for more, well, not because you’re addicted, but because it genuinely feels good to challenge yourself.
They Take the Stress Out of Gaming
Well, unlike those infuriating games that leave you throwing controllers, brain-teasing games are challenging without being stressful. They engage your brain in a way that’s focused and absorbing, helping you forget the day’s worries without triggering the stress spiral. It’s the perfect mix of relaxation and stimulation.
Types of Brain-Teasing Games to Explore
But what exactly is out there if you want to take a chance at this type of game? Anything good, at least?
Strategy Games
Now, strategy games are perfect for anyone who loves to plan, plot, and outsmart the competition. One of them was actually mentioned earlier, City Skylines, but there are plenty of others out there that are pretty popular, and they’re basically a mental playground.
Puzzle Games That Make You Think
The beauty of puzzle games is their simplicity, well, at least at first glance. So, you can do the classics, as there’s nothing wrong with that, but that’s not the only type of puzzle game out there. For example, the Legend of Zelda series is actually loaded with so many puzzles, so you could even look into playing one of those games.
Adventure Games with a Twist
All right, LoZ was mentioned above, but it can be mentioned in this spot too. Adventure games that weave puzzles and problem-solving into the story are another brilliant option. With these, you explore immersive worlds while using your brain to unlock secrets, solve mysteries, or piece together clues. It’s gaming with a purpose, and it’s as rewarding as it is fun.
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