Hobbies And Interests
Puzzle Games
Puzzle games force the brain to use a fixed set of items to resolve problems or challenges. For example, a jigsaw puzzle is made up of hundreds of pieces having the same size and shape, but with different images. To "win" the game, the brain has to process each piece and relate it to the whole picture. This simple game encourages the brain to think creatively by assessing each piece.
Word Games
Word games, which are available both online and offline, enhance the brain's memory and cognitive processes. Games, like Scrabble and Boggle, challenge the brain to dig into its memory and find stored words and concepts. As each word has a meaning, the brain also uses cognitive processes while playing word games. If a game is timed, it also encourages the brain to think quickly, acting much like exercise for the brain.
Strategy Games
Strategy games allow the brain to think of different ways of how to win a specific task. For example, a chess game's goal is to eliminate the opponent by situating pieces for a checkmate, but the steps for this relative goal can vary in each game.
Computer-based strategy games, usually war games, also follow the same concept: creating armies with multiple characteristics, capabilities and strategies to defeat your enemy. Strategizing encourages the brain to create new neuronal connections and strengthen past connections from memory to accomplish the task at hand. These games allow the logical and creative sides of the brain to resolve problems.
Memory Games
Memory games, such as concentration, where the player places all cards upside down and then chooses two cards at a time in an attempt to create matching sets, enhance the brain's concentration, as well as short-term memory. Computer-based versions of concentration also exist, many with modifications on how to beat the game, such as matching up related images instead of copies.