Ever thought that video games could actually help you with your exams? It might sound like a dream come true, but certain games are scientifically designed to boost concentration and cognitive skills.
Imagine training your brain while having fun, sharpening your focus, and getting a mental edge for those tough GCSE exams, all by playing a few well-chosen games! Let’s find out about these games.
1. Lumosity
- Google Play: 4.5 stars from 280K reviews.
- App Store: 4.7 stars from 112.6K ratings.
It’s a perfect game for those looking for a quick mental workout. Designed by neuroscientists, Lumosity offers over 50 mini-games that target:
- Memory.
- Attention.
- Flexibility.
- Concentration.
- Problem-solving.
What makes Lumosity so popular is the personalisation factor. Each level is designed based on your needs, and the difficulty adapts to your progress.
User review:
MARY, NEW JERSEY
I am surprised and delighted by your games. I appreciate the variety and multiplicity of games and the feeling of personalization. The daily workouts are welcome, more fun than push ups, and they make my day go even better.
2. Brain Age: Concentration Training
- 69% Metacritic
- 7.8/10 IGN
- 7.4/10 Nintendo Life
Perfect for those who get easily distracted.
Created by Nintendo for the DS console, the Brain Age game includes puzzles and activities to improve concentration and cognitive flexibility. It features exercises that challenge players to ignore distractions, helping build focus over time.
Like Lumosity, the game adapts to your needs.
User Review:
Game Cz
Funny, rich and perhaps healthy compilation of a mini-game that will pleasantly exercise your brain.
3. Portal 2
- 9.5/10 IGN
- 94% PC Gamer
- 95% Metacritic
Perfect for puzzle lovers. Although, some parts might be scary for children.
Portal 2 challenges players to solve complex problems with logic and spatial awareness. The mental focus required to progress through levels can improve:
- Patience.
- Concentration.
- Creativity.
- Critical thinking skills.
Story-based puzzles make Portal 2 a popular choice for puzzle lovers.
User Review:
Wyatt Forrest
Portal 2 has to be one of the best games ever created, the plot flows in a way that makes you think while keeping the action going. The writing makes sure that you get hit after hit in terms of the comedy, the gameplay expands apon the first game making every puzzle a puzzle you remember, and the final chapter of the game has to be one of the best I’ve ever played.
4. Big Brain Academy
- 7.5/10Nintendo Life
- 73%Metacritic
Perfect for those who enjoy timed challenges.
Another Nintendo game, Big Brain Academy, offers brain-training games across categories like memory and logic. With its timed exercises, the game builds focus and mental agility, both valuable for exam prep.
User Review:
The End Type
I love to play this game to train my brain, I think it’s a must-have game for people who love challenges and self-improvement. It’s great! Personally got it on sale so, it was a nice purchase!
5. Peak – Brain Training
- 7.5/10 Nintendo Life
- 73% Metacritic
- 8.5/10 Use a Potion!
Perfect if you enjoy variety.
Peak offers games to train various cognitive skills, including:
- Focus.
- Memory.
- Problem-solving.
The daily exercises of Peak are tailored to your progress. They help keep your mind sharp without interfering with your study schedule.
User Review:
Yoginidevi
Wow… I’m so glad I found this app. I was in a bad car accident a year and a half ago and my brain got seriously smashed up. As a result my memory (mostly short term) and math skills disappeared. I’ve been using Peak for about 2 months and I see significant changes in my memory abilities. Just a few weeks ago I was still telling any new person I talked to that I might lose my train of thought and I always felt self-conscious about my memory skills because it was so apparent when you spoke with me that they still hadn’t recovered.
How Can Video Games Improve Concentration?
A study in PLOS ONE found that these brain games improve working memory and mental flexibility, making it easier to concentrate for longer periods. So, it turns out that a little gaming can actually train your brain for the focus you need to tackle revision head-on!
Pro Tip Balance is key. Use these games to enhance your concentration, but remember to keep your main focus on revision! A little gaming can go a long way in making study breaks productive and boosting your focus for exams. |
Boost Your Focus with Ostado Tutors by Your Side
While games can help build focus, nothing beats one-on-one support when it comes to mastering subjects and staying on track for exams.
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