Studies have shown the benefits of board games for the brain and quality of life.

Board games can help maintain brain health and reduce the risk of dementia. This was reported by BBC Science Focus magazine on February 22.

According to the publication, various cognitive skills are used during the game: problem solving, critical thinking, decision-making, memory and concentration. In addition, they promote live communication and social activity.

One French study showed that people over the age of 65 who regularly played board games had a 15% lower risk of developing dementia. Scientists from Spain, in turn, found that residents of nursing homes who participated in gaming sessions twice a week improved their cognitive performance and overall quality of life. The benefits are also noted in children: board games have been shown to improve math skills in preschoolers.

Researchers pay special attention to chess. A review of neuroimaging studies in 2025 showed that experienced chess players have higher activity and connectivity in areas of the brain responsible for visual information processing, spatial perception, and decision-making.

A positive effect has also been found in role-playing board games such as Dungeons & Dragons. According to a study by University College Cork in Ireland, elements of creative expression, social support, and the ability to "immerse" themselves in the game world contribute to improving participants' mental well-being. Experts say that board games can be useful at any age, and their variety allows you to choose a format for different interests and goals.

Anastasia Mironenko, psychologist of the modi brand of emotional goods, explained the reason for the return of board games to fashion in an interview with Izvestia on January 31. She emphasized that they are able to develop cognitive and social skills. According to her, the observed increase in the popularity of board games is a natural response to the growing digital overload and the need for live communication.

All important news is on the Izvestia channel in the MAX messenger.