Playing video games can improve cognitive intelligence
Multiple studies, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses support the conclusion that playing video games can improve various facets of cognitive intelligence, including executive function, attention, and working memory.
The retrieved literature consistently supports the claim that video games can enhance cognitive functions, with multiple systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and empirical studies demonstrating improvements in executive function, attention, working memory, and creativity across various populations. There are no papers refuting the claim.
Mercier M, Bourgeois-Bougrine S, Lubart T. Games and Creativity: A Theoretical Framework.. 2026. https://doi.org/10.3390/jintelligence14020021
Paper [0] introduces a framework linking gaming habits with enhancements in creativity and cognitive dispositions.
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Liu B, Li X, Cai H. The effects of video games on cognitive function in older adults with mild cognitive impairment: a meta-analysis.. 2025. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnagi.2025.1756970
Paper [2] demonstrates through a meta-analysis that video game interventions significantly improve global cognition and executive function in older adults.
Yan C, Liu Y, Zhao J, Bao M, Zhou Q, Feng S, Li H, Pan G, Yao L, Wang Y. Integrating single-channel EEG neurofeedback into video game-based digital therapeutics for ADHD.. 2026. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12984-026-01918-7
Paper [3] shows that video game-based digital therapeutics can effectively enhance attention and cognitive control.
Mei J, Zhang W, Bin J. Effectiveness of different digital interventions on symptoms for children and adolescents with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: a network meta-analysis.. 2026. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2026.1747368
Paper [5] reports that digital and mobile gaming interventions improve executive function and core ADHD symptoms.
Li C, Guo X, Wang J, Wang S. Single video games improve cognitive functioning in college students: evidence from behavioral and fNIRS assessments.. 2025. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2025.1640142
Paper [6] finds that a single video game session enhances cognitive processing speed, decision-making, and prefrontal cortex activation in college students.
Tommasi V, Spinelli A, Siena V, Romano C, Bruno F, Nardacchione G, Marinelli CV. The effectiveness of serious games for training of attention and executive functions: a systematic review.. 2026. https://doi.org/10.3389/frcha.2026.1801077
Paper [7] reviews evidence that serious games improve attention and executive functions such as working memory and cognitive flexibility.
Alexandra Fiocco, Vivian Huang, Michaelia Young. The association between video game play and cognitive function: Does gaming platform matter?. 2024. https://doi.org/10.32920/25569660
Paper [8] indicates that frequent video game play is associated with enhanced executive function and working memory performance.
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