Chess or video games—which actually makes you smarter? The answer may surprise you.
Chess or video games—which actually makes you smarter? The answer may surprise you.
Chess or video games—which actually makes you smarter? The answer may surprise you.
Clarissa Brincat
January, 08, 2026
Summary
Every Christmas, board games spark debate in the author’s family, prompting a question: can games truly sharpen the mind? Experts say no single game boosts overall intelligence—skills gained are mostly domain-specific. Chess correlates with intelligence, but likely attracts already intelligent players. Still, games build executive function and social intelligence. Research suggests video games may offer stronger cognitive benefits than board games, as they demand rapid information processing and adaptability. Different genres enhance different skills, from cooperation to spatial reasoning. For children and older adults alike, games support learning and cognitive health. While they won’t make you smarter, games meaningfully stimulate the brain.
Reference
Brincat, C. (2026, January 8). Chess or video games—which actually makes you smarter? The answer may surprise you. Popular Science. https://www.popsci.com/science/what-games-make-you-smarter/