Parietal plasticity after training with a complex video game is associated with individual differences in improvements in an untrained working memory task

This study explored how training with the video game "Space Fortress," which challenges working memory, attention, and motor control, impacts brain activity and cognitive performance. Participants trained for 15 sessions and showed changes in brain activation, particularly in the superior parietal lobe (SPL) and related regions linked to working memory. Increased plasticity in these areas predicted better performance in an untrained memory task (Sternberg Memory Search). The findings support the idea that brain changes induced by video games can transfer to similar cognitive tasks, highlighting the potential of targeted gaming for cognitive-training. However, improvements were task-specific, with no benefits for unrelated tasks.

Engage in video games that require multitasking and working memory, like "Space Fortress"-type games, to enhance cognitive flexibility and memory-related skills. Benefits are likely to transfer only to tasks sharing similar mental demands. Combine gaming with activities like exercise or meditation to support brain plasticity comprehensively. While promising, these findings require broader studies to confirm long-term and generalized effects.