Cognitive Enhancement

When looking at the various ways in which lives can be enhanced, video games can be seen as a clear choice in that regard. The effects of video games on those with learning disabilities can be a clear showcase of this and can lead to the aid of those in desperate need. By utilizing puzzle games and open-world games a person can learn different ways to enhance their cognitive abilities through the learning of open-ended concepts. By exploring worlds, a player can get a feel for the way the world works and allow themselves to be immersed in the world as a whole. By making this connection, parallels can be made with the real world so an individual can learn why things are the way that they are. While there are many positive applications behind this, there are also negative ones to take into account due to the open nature of many titles. People can become unlikely to branch out and explore to the fullest of their abilities and leading to closed-minded thoughts and ways to accomplish tasks. With these positives and negatives in mind, is it still possible to use video games as a tool in these ways?

Photo Credit: Nintendo