The impact of computer games on cognitive abilities remains a subject of considerable debate. An article published in the journal Acta Psychologica represents a new attempt to settle this controversy.
This came after the study authors found a link between playing games and cognitive abilities, and were able to provide a quantitative estimate of this link.
The researchers conducted three meta-analyses, including correlational studies, comparisons between players and non-players, and controlled trials, published between January 2005 and August 2025. The review included 133 studies involving 14,245 people.
The studies underwent critical evaluation, then were classified and ranked according to their quality. The results were compiled according to five main criteria:
The results showed that computer games generally provide their players with a small but statistically significant cognitive benefit, which was confirmed by both observational studies and comparisons between experienced and non-player players.
The article stated: "When analyzing individual cognitive indicators, a statistically significant correlation was found only in the area of memory, suggesting that video games may be more consistently associated with memory-related skills specifically. One possible explanation for this correlation is that people who spend more time playing actively use memory skills while playing the games themselves."
A comparison of cognitive abilities between gamers and non-gamers, according to the results of observational studies, showed a correlation of 0.22. In simpler terms, the average intelligence quotient (IQ) of computer gamers was about five to seven points higher than the average IQ of non-gamers.
However, comparisons conducted within controlled experiments showed a more modest difference of 0.088, equivalent to about two to three points on the Eysenck scale. Researchers suggest this may indicate that gaming doesn't necessarily increase intelligence, but rather that individuals with higher cognitive abilities may simply be more inclined to play games in the first place.
The analysis also took into account additional factors, and it was found that the magnitude of the effect changed only slightly depending on gender, age, cultural background (Eastern or Western), health status, duration of intervention, or type of game.
Researchers believe that games may be more beneficial for children and adolescents, given their high brain plasticity (neuroplasticity) at an early age, and may also be a helpful tool for older adults in preventing cognitive decline.
