Peer-reviewed · Publicly accessible
Each game in MindForge is based on published, peer-reviewed research. This page lists the specific studies, with direct links to the originals.
Working memory, visuospatial memory, long-term retention, and retrieval practice. Each targets a different system studied independently in the literature.
The research by game
Participants study a set of items, then retrieve them from memory without cues. Based on the testing effect: the finding that actively retrieving information strengthens retention more than re-studying it.
Key research finding
Roediger & Karpicke (2006) found that participants who practiced retrieval retained significantly more after one week than those who re-studied the same material. Karpicke & Roediger (2007) replicated this with repeated retrieval practice.
Participants track two streams of information simultaneously (visual positions and spoken letters) and identify matches from N steps back. Targets working memory and fluid intelligence.
Key research finding
Jaeggi et al. (2008) found that dual n-back training produced dose-dependent improvements in fluid intelligence after as few as 8 sessions. A 2015 meta-analysis (Au et al.) across 20 studies confirmed a small but significant effect.
A sequence of grid positions lights up and the participant reproduces it. Sequences increase in length. Based on the Corsi block-tapping task, a standard visuospatial working memory assessment used in research since the 1970s.
Key research finding
Chan et al. (2015) found that visuospatial working memory training facilitated sequence learning and transferred to untrained cognitive tasks in both younger and older adults.
Participants flip cards to find matching pairs, exercising visual-spatial and associative memory. The task requires encoding card positions and retrieving them during subsequent attempts.
Key research finding
Savulich et al. (2017) found that cognitive training using a memory game based on paired associate learning improved episodic memory in patients with amnestic mild cognitive impairment, with significant gains on the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery.
Disclaimer: The studies referenced on this page were conducted in controlled research settings. MindForge is not a medical product and does not claim to treat, diagnose, or cure any condition. Individual results may vary.
All 10 sources
Full Reference List
All publicly accessible