Brain games and keeping your mind busy

Puzzles and word games can be a fun part of your day. A friendly look at which games to try, how to make them a habit, and why playing with others is extra fun.

Many people enjoy starting the day with a crossword, a word puzzle or a quick game of solitaire. Games can be a pleasant way to relax, focus on something for a few minutes, and enjoy the small thrill of solving a puzzle.

A quick, honest word

You may see apps that promise to “boost your brain” or prevent memory loss. Scientists are still studying what games can and cannot do for the mind, and we do not make any health claims about ours. We simply think games are fun. If you are worried about your memory, the best step is to talk with your doctor.

Games worth trying on New Tech

All our games are free to play in your web browser, with big buttons and easy settings.

• Daily Word – guess the five-letter word in six tries. A new word every day, so it makes a nice morning habit.
• Brain Games – Golden Matrix (patterns), Starlight Recall (remembering sequences) and Quick Wit Sixty (quick thinking against the clock).
• Memory Match – turn over cards and find the pairs. Easy to learn, fun to share with grandchildren.
• Klondike Solitaire and Trivia – old favorites that are relaxing at your own pace.

Making it a habit you enjoy

• Pick a regular time, such as with your morning coffee.
• Mix it up. Try a word game one day and a pattern game the next.
• Go at your own pace. Most of our games have an easy mode. There is no prize for rushing.
• Take breaks and rest your eyes now and then.

Better together

Games are even more fun with other people. Play Memory Match with a grandchild, compare Daily Word results with a friend on the phone, or see how you rank on the leaderboard. Pair screen time with other things you enjoy too, like a walk, a chat with a neighbor or a good book.

Which game is your favorite? Tell us in the comments below.