Brain Training Games vs Traditional Math: What Science Says

When it comes to sharpening your brain and boosting cognitive skills, two approaches often stand out—brain training games and traditional math practice. But which one actually works better? And more importantly, what does science have to say about how these methods affect your brain?

Let’s break it down.

The Rise of Brain Training Games

Brain training apps and games have exploded in popularity. With promises of improving memory, focus, problem-solving, and even IQ, these games offer a quick, fun way to “exercise” your brain. Platforms like Lumosity, Peak, and Elevate are household names. And newer gamified platforms—like Matiks—blend speed, strategy, and logic to turn mental math into a rewarding challenge.

The appeal is clear: they’re interactive, bite-sized, and designed to give users instant feedback. But how effective are they?

What Research Says About Brain Games

Scientific studies have produced mixed results. Some findings suggest brain games can improve performance on the specific tasks they train—like getting faster at spotting patterns or remembering number sequences. However, this "near transfer" often doesn’t translate to broader cognitive improvement in daily life.

For example, a 2016 study published in The Journal of Neuroscience found that while participants improved at the game itself, there was little evidence of improvement in unrelated thinking skills. Similarly, a large-scale review in Psychological Science in the Public Interest concluded that many brain games boost only narrow abilities and don't significantly increase general intelligence.

That said, certain types of brain games—especially those involving working memory, mental rotation, or numerical estimation—do show promise when used consistently and over time. Their benefit may depend less on the game itself and more on how it’s designed and integrated into regular practice.

Traditional Math: The Classic Cognitive Workout

Now, let’s talk about traditional math.

Solving math problems—whether it's long division or algebra—requires multiple areas of the brain to work together. It strengthens logical reasoning, pattern recognition, and executive function. Math is essentially a structured way to engage in problem-solving, and research shows that mathematical thinking builds lasting neural connections.

A study from Stanford University using brain imaging found that children who practiced mental arithmetic showed stronger connections in brain networks related to memory and reasoning. Unlike brain games, traditional math seems to foster deep cognitive engagement over time.

But here's the catch: traditional math can feel boring or overwhelming, especially without context or motivation. That’s where engagement becomes key.

Why Not Combine the Best of Both?

Instead of treating brain games and traditional math as rivals, what if they could work together?

This is exactly the philosophy behind Matiks. By gamifying core mathematical operations—like multiplication, estimation, and quick calculations—Matiks combines the rigor of traditional math with the engagement of brain games. You’re not just tapping your screen aimlessly; you're building speed, accuracy, and confidence in real mental math—all backed by cognitive science.

So, What’s Better?

If you're aiming for general brain improvement, traditional math may offer more comprehensive benefits. But if you want to build specific skills in a way that's motivating and fun, brain games—especially those rooted in solid math—can be a powerful supplement.

The most effective approach? One that’s challenging, consistent, and enjoyable. Whether you're solving equations or crushing your high score in Matiks, what matters most is that you’re thinking, improving, and coming back for more.

Final Thought

Cognitive development isn’t about choosing one method over another—it’s about creating a habit of learning. Games or equations, play or practice, what fuels growth is intentional, sustained effort. And if you can enjoy the process, that’s a win for your brain.