We explore the influence of cognitive ability and judgment on strategic behavior in the beauty contest game (where the Nash equilibrium action is zero). Using the level-k model of bounded rationality, cognitive ability and judgment both predict higher level strategic thinking. However, individuals with better judgment choose zero less frequently, and we uncover a novel dynamic mechanism that sheds light on this pattern. Taken together, our results indicate that fluid (i.e., analytical) intelligence is a primary driver of strategic level-k thinking, while facets of judgment that are distinct from fluid intelligence drive the lower inclination of high judgment individuals to choose zero.

hical Cattell–Horn–Carroll model of intelligence ( McGrew 2009 ; Schneider and McGrew 2018 ). In addition, the latent factor of general ability estimated with the video game battery showed a high correlation ( r = 0.93) with the latent factor of general intelligence estimated with a battery of tests. This result implied that evaluations with video games (“brain games”) sort individuals in the same way as that of intelligence and ability tests, opening the possibility for developing video game batteries that assess interindividual differences in intelligence and ability. Nevertheless, brain games are very similar to laboratory tasks and tests designed to assess cognitive abilities and processes, so the high correlation obtained in the study by Quiroga et al. ( 2015 ) may be partially due to this. To test this hypothesis, Quiroga et al. ( 2019 ) developed a battery of video games of different genres (shooters, platforms, puzzles, and sports) whose performance was correlated with that on a battery of tests. The results showed medium and high correlations between both instruments (video games and tests), supporting the convergent validity of video games from different genres as measures of cognitive abilities. Moreover, the general latent factor of cognitive performance obtained with video games again showed a high correlation ( r = 0.79) with the latent factor of general intelligence. Therefore, “non-brain games” video games can also be used to assess individual differences in cognitive abilities in a way similar to that of tests. Video games designed to entertain are, however, of reduced usefulness for researchers and applied educators in their standard format because they do not provide speed and achievement scores that allow an accurate description of a player’s performance or the process data of how the game is being played ( Quiroga et al. 2016 ). In general, video games for entertainment provide only the level attained in the game (score or level) and, sometimes,

SCGs as a Proxy for Determining the Cognitive Status of Older Adults Detecting memory problems early is crucial for treating conditions like Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), which often leads to dementia. Currently, doctors use tests in clinics to check for these issues. However, there's a growing need for better methods to monitor our cognitive skills over time. Computer games emerge as a cost-effective solution for assessing the brain functions of older adults. In our study, we are investigating the potential of computer games to reflect the cognitive skills of older adults. We developed the VibrantMinds platform, featuring five games: Whack-a-Mole, Bejeweled, Mahjong Solitaire, Word Search, and Memory Game. We have evaluated these games for ease of use, enjoyment, and their impact on brain functions. Now, our goal is to determine whether these games can offer valuable insights into the cognitive skills of older adults. We are collecting demographic data, game-playing data, and cognitive test results. Our analysis will determine the correlation between game data, cognitive test outcomes, and demographic information.

<h4>Background</h4>Assessment of technical aptitude, cognitive abilities, and personality characteristics is important in selecting candidates for surgical training. Currently, the selection of surgical training candidates does not systematically include objective assessment of these variables. Instead, it relies heavily on traditional selection methods, such as academic achievement, letters of recommendation, and interviews, whose presumed relationships with later performance are based on limited and inconsistent evidence.<h4>Objective</h4>This study examined evidence for validity based on relationships with other variables-a key source of validity evidence-to support the use of 2 novel tools for objectively assessing surgical training candidates: a nonimmersive (screen-based) virtual reality laparoscopic technical aptitude test, and a game-based assessment of cognitive abilities and personality characteristics.<h4>Methods</h4>This study had 3 phases, all focused on establishing validity based on relationships with other variables. In Phase 1, we evaluated convergent and discriminant evidence of validity by assessing the correlation between interns' performance in the 2 novel selection tests and in 4 established psychometric instruments for assessing dexterity, visuospatial ability, intelligence, and personality. In Phase 2, we evaluated evidence for the test-criterion relationship by assessing the correlation between residents' performance in the 2 novel tests and their concurrent residency performance evaluations. In this phase, we also assessed evidence for the fairness of the tests between genders. In Phase 3, we focused on the technical aptitude test and evaluated evidence for its relationship with training level by administering the test to a sample of expert surgeons and comparing their performance with that of the residents and interns from the previous phases.<h4>Results</h4>Interns' scores on the 2 novel selection tests were correlated with scores on the relevant established psychometric instruments, providing convergent and discriminant evidence (Phase 1). Residents' scores on the 2 novel tests were significantly correlated with relevant performance criteria (Phase 2). In addition, no evidence for gender bias in the tests was found. Finally, based on data collected in all 3 phases, we found evidence for expert-novice differences in the technical aptitude test scores, such that scores were correlated with surgical experience.<h4>Conclusions</h4>The findings provide validity evidence supporting the use of the novel virtual reality-based technical aptitude test and a game-based assessment of cognitive abilities and personality characteristics in selecting candidates for surgical training. However, because the test-criterion evidence was obtained using a concurrent design, further prospective longitudinal studies are required to determine whether these assessments predict subsequent residency performance.

<h4>Background</h4>The rapid expansion of esports has intensified interest in the cognitive and neurophysiological mechanisms underlying elite performance, particularly reaction time (RT), decision-making (DM), and neural efficiency. Advances in brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) offer targeted neural modulation that may enhance these abilities through improved neural synchronization. To systematically review evidence on the effects of BCI-based neural synchronization, including motor imagery (MI) BCIs, visual evoked potential (VEP/c-VEP) systems, neural entrainment, and dual-brain coupling, on RT, DM, and related cognitive outcomes in esports athletes and competitive gamers.<h4>Methods</h4>Following PRISMA 2020 guidelines, comprehensive searches were conducted across PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, IEEE Xplore, PsycINFO, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar. Studies examining BCI-induced neural modulation and its cognitive or performance effects in esports players or experienced gamers were included. Eighteen studies met the criteria, comprising controlled trials, pre-post interventions, cross-sectional neurophysiology studies, comparative behavioural analyses, and supporting systematic reviews. Due to methodological heterogeneity, results were synthesised narratively. Although the review follows PRISMA 2020 guidelines for systematic study identification and selection, the synthesis adopts a structured integrative narrative approach due to substantial heterogeneity in study designs, BCI modalities, and outcome measures.<h4>Results</h4>Across studies, BCI-mediated neural synchronization produced consistent improvements in RT, DM accuracy, cortical oscillatory stability, and neural connectivity. MI-BCI and gamified systems enhanced MI accuracy, user engagement, and cognitive load regulation. VEP-based BCIs accelerated perceptual processing by improving signal reliability and reducing latency. Dual-brain coupling improved coordinated decision behaviour. Additional evidence indicates that experienced gamers display superior working memory, attentional control, and visuomotor coordination compared with non-gamers. However, variability in study design, small samples, and moderate risk of bias limit the strength of causal inference.<h4>Discussion</h4>BCI-based neural synchronization shows promise as a tool for enhancing neurocognitive performance in esports athletes. Future studies should prioritize standardized training protocols, multimodal neural-measurement methods, and longitudinal designs to determine long-term effectiveness and real-world applicability.