Winter is upon us. Across the country, cold weather is keeping many Americans inside. Whether you’re stuck inside or simply looking for a fun, engaging activity to pass the time, these online brain games are just the ticket.
Brain games improve cognitive skills
Playing games is fun! Games allow us to interact with others and provide hours of entertainment. They also challenge the mind. Brain games are an excellent activity to help improve cognitive skills. From planning and decision-making to faster processing and reaction times, games are a tool to help us maintain our mental health.
Brain games improve mental health
Games not only improve our cognitive abilities, they also keep our minds healthier. When possible, multiple-player games have the greatest impact on mental health. Even if you’re unable to get together in person, there are online and app-based options available for multiple players to compete.
Online, app-based and in-person brain games
Not all games are created equal! When it comes to strengthening your brain, the games mentioned below are great. Options listed can be played online, on a smartphone app, or in person!
Chess
Chess is a classic, strategy-based board game for two players. Play online, with an app on your smartphone or in person.
Sudoku
Sudoku is a logic-based number puzzle for one player that can be played in varying levels of difficulty. The objective is to fill a 9 × 9 grid with digits so that each column, each row, and each of the nine 3 × 3 subgrids that compose the grid contain all of the digits from 1 to 9. Play online, with an app on your smartphone, or on paper.
- Online sudoku
- Smartphone app Android | Apple iOS
- Tactile sudoku book
Solitaire
Solitaire is a card game played by one person. The player starts with a shuffled deck of cards and attempts to get all the cards arranged in numerical order. Play online, with an app on your smartphone, or with a deck of cards.
- Online solitaire
- Smartphone app Android | Apple iOS
- At home (Need a deck of cards? Get one here.)
Crossword Puzzles
A crossword is a word puzzle for one player. Usually comprised of black and white squares, the goal is to fill the white squares with letters, forming words or phrases, by solving clues. Play online, with an app on your smartphone, or on paper
Scrabble
Scrabble is a word game for multiple players. Score points by placing letter tiles onto a game board. The tiles must form words that read left to right in rows or downward in columns. Play online, with an app on your smartphone, or in person.
- Scrabble options online
- Smartphone app Android | Apple iOS
- Tactile Scrabble set
Jigsaw Puzzle
A jigsaw puzzle isn’t exactly a game, but it is a great activity! Interlocking pieces come together to form a complete picture. Do your puzzle alone or with others. Tactile puzzles may seem preferable, but online puzzles are available.
Brain training apps
In addition to classic games, there are many brain training apps available. Elevate, Lumosity, Peak and Cognifit are just a few!
If you’re looking for ways to pass the time while staying warm and cozy, be sure to check out these fun, engaging brain games!