The University of Edinburgh found that doing Sudoku can help activate “survival genes” in your brain that otherwise remain dormant. They report that these genes help elongate the lifespan of brain cells and help people resist memory-depleting diseases such as strokes.

But all types of people enjoy this game–and some even become masters. However, there are also some incredibly smart people who never play beyond a beginner level.The authors make the point that maintaining cognitive health requires people to use all five senses in unexpected ways so you can stay mentally fit enough to meet daily challenges like remembering someone’s name, learning a new skill, and maintaining your creativity. Sure, there’s some type of relationship between the ability to play Chess well and one’s overall intelligence, as playing Chess involves using various parts of your brain. If you stop playing when you’re in the middle of a game, you’ll have to restart the entire thinking process, which helps jog your memory and helps to develop your concentration abilities and re-focusing skills.

Chess gives people a tool to engage in a rigorous brain workout. And, as the most crucial organ in the human body, when your brain doesn’t get any stimulation, the cells start to die. Each of the 450 puzzles range from easy to advanced, so you can tailor your cognitive workout to your current level of functioning. Furthermore, each puzzle tells you exactly which area of your brain is being targeted as you’re working through it and the cognitive functions that are being controlled. option for kids and adults alike, as many find it to be challenging and fun. 6. SmartGames IQ Puzzler Pro, a Travel Game for Kids and AdultsUsers have to follow along with the lights and watch, remember, and repeat the pattern as long as possible before making a mistake.