senior project video games

20 Best Video Games for Seniors

True to the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) claim that growing older does not necessarily mean “game over,” video games have boomed among people aged 50 and above in the US. The number of gamers who are senior adults increased from 40.2 million in 2016 to 50.6 million in 2019. As you plan to join the list of growing older gamers, you may need to decide the best games to play.

The best video games for seniors have moderate-impact physical and mental activities. They require players to make judgments about situations, explore their creativity, and engage in memory exercises. These games are also easy to play, have vivid, bold graphics, and require proper coordination.

Seniors can play several video games to sharpen their memory, improve coordination, and stave off diseases while having fun. The rest of this article will describe some of the best video games for seniors in detail, what you should consider when picking video games for seniors, and the benefits of video games.

Neuroracer is a custom-designed video game that challenges players to engage rapidly and accurately in a 3D environment.

This close-looped, cognitive optimization game uses adaptive algorithms to challenge players’ navigation and response. You are rewarded for improving both, which requires multitasking. As a senior, you’d be interested in enhancing your cognitive abilities , vigilance, and memories. Neuroracer enables you to do that!

Do you love word puzzles?

Wordscapes combines traditional crossword puzzles with letter scrambles. You should aim to create as many words as possible with the letters provided by filling the crossword’s blanks.

This video game is excellent for cognitive training. As you grow old, your memory will tend to get weaker unless you practice. However, you can use this game to challenge yourself and learn a thing or two. Although some of the crosswords may be difficult, it’s possible to complete them.

Being a senior comes with its drawbacks. Your muscles can no longer endure strenuous exercises . For that reason, participating in rigorous physical activities becomes a herculean task.

However, the creators of Wii Sports had your predicament in mind. The game combines light impact exercises with mental activity—the perfect combination for your mind and body. The interactive sports game offers tennis, baseball, bowling, golf, and boxing.

Each of the games we’ve mentioned allows you to participate in light workouts. You can do the activities alone or add fun to them by partaking in group exercises with friends. We’d recommend playing with friends as often as possible—you can crack jokes, cheer each other up, and reminisce about your youth while at it.

The Wii Balance Board is another beneficial aspect of this video game—you can use it to improve your balance. If you want to keep fit, we recommend that you start playing this incredible video game.

This video describes how you can play tennis on Wii Sports:

Still, on physical activities, 1-2 Switch requires you to be active as you respond to cues and rumbles from special controllers.

In this multiplayer game, you face your opponent instead of the screen as you play different sports, such as badminton and tennis. The social aspect means you’ll never be lonely when playing this game.

Guitar Hero

“If music be the food of love, play on.” – William Shakespeare .

Did you relish performances by legendary bands during your youth? If that is the case, you can recreate the memories by playing Guitar Hero. This game is a unique musical blast. Unlike the traditional video games that come with controllers, Guitar Hero comes with a toy guitar that you can use to play seven different games.

Each game is unique and has excellent setlists with songs from famous bands, such as Queen and The Beatles . Additionally, the video game is designed for different consoles and comes in different versions for PC and mobile users.

If you want to reconnect with your childhood and reawaken the rock star in you, we recommend that you play Guitar Hero.

Super Mario 3D World

Super Mario games have defied the odds of time—thanks to their simplicity and fun-filled activities.

Super Mario 3D World is another game that seniors may enjoy. A notable pro of this video game is that it does not require one to be an expert to complete the levels. Anyone can play Super Mario games, an aspect that distinguishes them from most games that are restricted to individuals above certain ages.

According to New Cyber Senior, playing Super Mario 3D World stimulates the hippocampus , a vital part of the brain that helps in memory retention. This means you can stave off illnesses, such as Alzheimer’s disease, by partaking in this game.

The challenging, fun activities in Super Mario 3D World can help you improve your reaction time, balance, and coordination, things that tend to deteriorate with age. By playing Super Mario 3D, you’d be reducing the chances of suffering from memory loss illnesses, such as dementia .

This video game allows you to use your imagination to enjoy vivid, immersive gameplay. As a result, you can play this game to improve your critical thinking skills as you advance to more challenging levels.

Super Mario 3D World is a multiplayer game, meaning seniors can enjoy the vivid 3D world with friends.

Super Mario Bros

Besides Super Mario 3D World, you can play the iconic Super Mario Bros. Throughout the game, you will travel through colorful worlds in a quest to rescue Princess Peach . In case you’re stuck, you can watch the computer play and give it another try.

You acquire problem-solving skills while improving your memory by doing that—this is the sort of game that boosts your hippocampus!

World of Warcraft

One of the most role-playing games, World of Warcraft, is more popular among seniors who like engaging, in-depth games. This game follows a captivating storyline that is essential for sharpening players’ cognitive abilities .

This game presents several challenges to players as they advance to higher levels. Mostly, players have to think critically and act fast, which would benefit them as a senior. Also, the difficulty levels are customizable, meaning you determine the level of challenge. However, that does not mean the game is easy—you must be ready for the challenges!

This game allows you to create a character that must complete different quests. It also triggers your imagination and creativity as you fight supernatural beings. This means you’ll be alert, especially during combat. This can improve your attention span, concentration, and thinking ability.

World of Warcraft has vivid and bold graphics, and if you’re a decent player, you can reap the benefits we’ve mentioned above.

You would feel excited to play against other seniors from all over the world, right? World of Warcraft allows you to do that by playing online. How about you make new friends while enjoying this popular game?

Animal Crossing: New Horizons

Animal Crossing: New Horizons is another video game with an exciting storyline that seniors can follow. In this simulation game, you play the role of a mayor of a town full of animals. You must perform specific routine activities to earn “bells,” which means the currency you can use to buy things.

This game’s beauty is that it does not require you to perform strenuous tasks; you get to have fun alongside cute animals. Animal Crossing: New Horizons also allows you to explore and express your creativity. You can customize different characters’ appearances and purchase items, such as furniture, and furnish your in-game home as you desire.

The game allows you to partake in activities that you would do in real life, such as photography and swimming. You can include your friends in the game by playing it online with them.

PGA Tour is an excellent simulation, sports theme game for seniors who love golf. This is one of the favorite pastimes for retired people. If you’re an ardent golf fan, then hurdles, such as the weather, lockdowns, and old age, shouldn’t deter you from enjoying this video game version of the sport.

Several PGA Tour versions allow seniors to play against pro golfers, such as Justin Thomas , on real-life courses, notably, East Lake Golf Club and TPC Sawgrass on Xbox and Playstation consoles or on mobile devices. 

You can customize your player, their clothes, and golfing equipment. Players can also create golf courses, meaning PGA Tour allows you to express your creativity.

Loneliness is something you’ve probably experienced more as you grow older. Your sons, daughters, and grandchildren are probably busy with their careers and studies.

However, you can play online PGA Tour tournaments with friends to stave off that feeling. Besides getting a glimpse of what it’s like to play on your dream golf courses, you benefit from this video game through improved coordination and problem-solving.

Old Man’s Journey

Retaining your memory abilities is one of your greatest desires. If that is the case, then Old Man’s journey is one of the games you can play. The game itself is based on memory. Notably, you have to help an elderly man to navigate the countryside.

As you play the game, you discover several aspects of the grandfather figure’s fascinating life. According to Age UK, playing video games is a brilliant way for you to connect with the young . For instance, you can play Ibb and Obb, Abzu, and Deep Time Walk to build stronger relations with your grandchildren.

As you get older, you need games that offer new ways to stay hopeful and optimistic about life, and Old Man’s Journey enables you to do exactly that! The game triggers your critical thinking abilities as you begin to appreciate that some things add more value to life.

Growing old should not be an excuse to stop exploring new things. Flower allows you to explore new mysteries across different beautiful sceneries.

Players can carry clusters of colorful flower petals around diverse landscapes and witness the petals start a life of their own. You get to fly above the countryside and lush fields as you try to attain different goals. There’s no specific time limit within which you must achieve the set objectives. That means you can casually explore diverse landscapes throughout a session.  

According to That Video Game Blog, Flower can be viewed as an interactive poem . It evokes your emotions as you experience the different sceneries. Besides, you navigate through gentle, peaceful environments on some levels, while other levels have utterly depressing landscapes.

You connect with your emotions throughout the game. You may encounter environments that remind you of the places you’ve toured since childhood.

Candy Crush Saga

Candy Crush Saga is one of the most popular mobile video games. The aim of the game is to clear the board by aligning three or more matching pieces in one row. It’s an excellent game for keeping your vision and mental muscles in tip-top shape as you identify matching colors.

Although this game is simple, you should never underestimate it. The higher levels are trickier and need you to be keener. However, that is not a drawback—your aim is to challenge your brain, right?

Flight Simulator Xtreme

One of the exciting games on this list, Flight Simulator Xtreme, is the go-to game for thrill-seeking seniors. This popular game allows you to steer airplanes from top brands, such as Airbus, Boeing, and Learjet.

You can participate in missions, become a commercial pilot, or experience breathtaking aerial views of different landscapes in the game.

This game was not designed for younger players—it’s quite complicated. However, you can consider the complexities as a challenge and aim to complete several missions as you discover new things. After all, it’s never too late for you to challenge yourself.

You practice coordination as you improve on muscle reflex and thinking abilities during gameplay. The main con to this simulation game is that you can only download it on an iPad.

Minecraft is one of the few games that can be played by the young and the old alike. As a result, you should play it as often as possible with your kids and grandkids. That would help alleviate your loneliness as you connect with them while having fun.

That is because it is a “sandbox” game, meaning it is whatever you make it. Notably, the game allows you to design your world to become whatever you like. You can build a house, an automobile, or an airplane. Because of that, we can say Minecraft gives you a chance to be creative while having fun.

Alternatively, you can play the story mode, which avails villains you can fight. You’ll also enjoy the game’s soothing, relaxing, and rhythmic background music and sounds besides exploring the visually appealing yet complex square world in the game.

This YouTube video explains how you can play Minecraft as a newbie:

If you loved math back in college, then you’d love to try out 2048. This is an easy-to-understand video game that you can play on your phone or computer. Your objective would be to add like numbers during gameplay while attempting to score 2048 or more points.

You don’t have to worry about being a rookie at gaming since you do everything with the swipe of a finger. 2048 improves your cognitive abilities as you do mental calculations. You do not compete against anyone, meaning you’ll be aiming to beat your highest scores in every attempt.

The Professor Layton Games

The Layton series of games are perfect for seniors who seek puzzling adventures and baffling brain teasers. These games are popular for their fun stories and puzzles. Also, they have little to no urgency. You can take time to learn as you solve different puzzles. We would recommend these games since they enable you to improve eye-hand coordination.

Plants vs. Zombies

The aim of this game is to defend your home from brain-eating zombies. You do that by planting different types of plants in strategic locations. This game keeps your concentration and critical thinking skills in top shape as you strategize how to protect your home.

Treasure Hunt

Treasure Hunt is the perfect game for seniors who love adventure. The game’s pirate theme makes it more thrilling. You have to remember the correct items you have found in pirate ship’s rooms to earn virtual coins, usually gold. Therefore, you’d be sharpening your memory skills as you advance through more challenging levels.

Trivia Crack

Trivia Crack is another video game that boosts your memory. You can have a head-to-head quiz with family and friends. Simply spin the wheel to determine which category you’ll be quizzed from and answer the subsequent questions. You can also chat with your friends through this game.

What to Consider Before Choosing a Video Game for Seniors

Now that we’ve described the best 20 video games for seniors, you may have identified several of them that you’d like to try out. However, we wouldn’t like you to start an endless trial and error experiment—that would be costly!

To avoid that, this article recommends that seniors consider the following before choosing video games :

Let’s consider this hypothetical scenario:

You’ve never been interested in math. You consider it demanding and strain when summing up numbers. Because we mentioned 2048 as one of the best games for seniors, you hurriedly downloaded it and have made some in-app purchases. However, you end up disappointed because you don’t enjoy the game.

What do you think led to the circumstances above? Your guess is as good as mine. It would be better to choose games that simulate what you like doing. For example, Flower would be a better choice if you love beautiful sceneries or spent the better part of your youth traveling worldwide.

This term sounds intimidating, right?

Don’t let it intimidate you. By platform, we mean the technology you’ll use to play the game. For example, will you play on a PC or on your phone?

Before choosing a game, you must consider the platforms on which it’s available. For instance, if you’re bedbound, it would be counterproductive to purchase a game you can only play on the PC. Conversely, we’d suggest that you buy a mobile-based game.

You also need to consider the ergonomics of your game’s platform. For example, an iPhone has smaller controls than a PC or an Xbox. Therefore, you may find it too difficult to use your phone’s controls. As a result, it is advisable to consider the platform on which you’ll play the game and its user-friendliness.

Tip: Pick games that are available on easy-to-use platforms for a better gameplay experience.

One of the common mistakes seniors make when starting out on video games is underestimating the games’ complexity and the kits they buy.

It’s very easy to make a similar mistake, especially if there’s no one to guide you. You must consider your ability before purchasing any of the mentioned games. As this article advises, you should start off by playing the free versions of the games that match your interests to feel the play. Chances are high you’ll end up frustrated and give up if you do not follow this advice.

You should start with basic games to build up confidence and determine if you’d be interested in continuing to advanced levels. Once you feel ready to buy the premium version of your preferred game, do not hesitate to ask a younger person to help you learn more and explore new in-game challenges.

Socialization Situations

Do you enjoy playing video games all by yourself? In that case, you can pick games that you can play on any platform.

Similarly, you’d pick such types of games if you intend to challenge other players online or play against the computer. However, you may prefer in-person games with friends. In such a case, you’ll need to factor in the costs of the special kits and consoles that you need for gameplay.

Tip: There are several “Video Game Communities” with players from all over the world. You can search on the internet and join them to socialize and learn from others as you play.

The Benefits of Video Games for Seniors

Having described the aspects to consider when choosing a game, let us highlight how you’d benefit from playing video games.

Here are a few of them:

Improved Emotional Well-Being

It’s indisputable that doing what you enjoy improves your emotional health. The same case holds for seniors who enjoy playing video games. According to this study , senior gamers are less likely to suffer from depression. Instead, they have better health, well-being, and social functioning than non-gamers.

Improved Balance

As we have mentioned previously, some games require physical interaction, balance, and coordination. Specifically, Wii Sports and 1-2 Switch can help you develop better balance and faster walking speeds. In an empirical study, the authors discovered that seniors who partake in video games reduce their chances of falling by 42% .

Enhanced Cognitive Ability

Video games can help improve your mental capacity. According to this study by the University of California – San Francisco , playing video games significantly improves cognitive ability while reversing the signs of aging in seniors. You not only sharpen your short-term memory but can also learn to remember names, dates, addresses, and phone numbers with more practice. 

Besides, switching different activities during games can boost your mental flexibility and multitasking abilities.

Reduced Risk of Alzheimer’s

Did you know that approximately 5.7 million seniors in the US suffer from Alzheimer’s? This progressive brain disease is also the fifth leading cause of death among seniors. Nonetheless, this journal article reports that playing video games increases hippocampal grey matter and reduces Alzheimer’s risk factors in seniors.

Lots of Fun

When was the last time you had a thrilling gaming experience as friends and family cheered you on? Playing video games is undoubtedly one of the ways to have fun. It gets better when you think of it as a non-competitive sport—you can make mistakes, learn from them, and share happy moments with everyone.

The following YouTube video explains the psychological benefits of video games in-depth:

Caution: Although we’ve emphasized its benefits, excessive gaming can be detrimental to your health. According to this article by Harvard Medical School, overuse of muscles and tendons usually result in repetitive stress injuries, which can cause numbness, weakness, and permanent injury. Besides, you’d be risking becoming an addict, which could cause withdrawal symptoms and the deterioration of social relationships. 

The best video games for seniors include activities that require physical and mental effort. These games require proper coordination of movement and sight, timely reactions, and memory engagement. They are also immersive and use bold graphics.

When deciding on the games to play among the ones mentioned in this article, you should consider the following:

• Interests: Is the game’s aim consistent with your interest?
• Platform: Is it easy to use?
• Ability: Is the game or its kit too complicated for you to handle?
• Socialization: Will you play alone, online, or with friends?
• Age UK: The Best Video Games for Older People
• That Videogame Blog: Review / Flower (PSN)
• Lifeline 24: Elderly Gaming: Video Games for Older People
• Great Senior Living: 81 Top Games for Seniors and the Elderly: Fun for All Abilities
• Eligibility: The 15 Healthiest Video Games for Any Adult
• GrownGaming: The Best Video Games For Elderly Gamers
• New Cyber Senior: Best Video Games for Seniors
• Kim Komando: 10 Best Video Games for People Over 55
• Reddit: Games for Older People? (50-60, Never Played Games Before)
• University of California – San Francisco: Neuroscape
• A Place for Mom: Best Video Games for Seniors
• ScienceDirect: Successful Aging through Digital Games: Socioemotional Differences Between Older Adult Gamers and Non-Gamers
• Philips Lifeline: Seniors Enjoy Better Emotional Health from Playing Video Games
• ResearchGate: Health Benefits of Digital Video Games for Older Adults: A Systematic Review of the Literature
• Aging In Place: Digital and Trend-Forward Games For Seniors
• Alert1: The Best Video Games for Seniors and Nursing Home Residents
• We Love Our Granny: Video Games for Seniors
• Assisting Hands: Fun Online Games for Seniors
• WebMD: Games to Keep You Young
• National Institute on Aging: Video Games Show Potential in Improving Key Aspects of Memory in Older Adults
• Harvard Medical School: The Health Effects of Too Much Gaming
• The Goodman Group: Technology for Seniors: The Benefits of Video Games & VR
• Plos One: Playing Super Mario 64 Increases Hippocampal Grey Matter in Older Adults
• The Lancet: Addition Of A Non-Immersive Virtual Reality Component To Treadmill Training To Reduce Fall Risk In Older Adults (V-TIME): A Randomised Controlled Trial
• EurekAlert: Training The Older Brain In 3-D: Video Game Enhances Cognitive Control
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: At A Glance: Alzheimer’s Disease

Hey there, my name is Ruth, I'm in my late fifties. My life was turned upside down a few years ago as I experienced a burn-out. But I saw it as a sign that something had to change in my life. I'm happy I used this tough experience as a stepping stone. I now feel happier than ever and hope to inspire you to do the same, no matter how old you are.

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Welcome! This subreddit is for us lovers of games that feature an incremental mechanism, such as unlocking progressively more powerful upgrades, or discovering new ways to play the game. This genre is growing at a break-neck pace, be part of the revolution!

Senior Project - Game Design Ideas?

Hey r/incremental_games , I am a game design major and for my senior project we need to finish a game, from design document to complete, ready to launch, game. As someone who loves idle games personally, I got the go-ahead to create an idle game for my project.

However, I can't quite decide on what type of game. I have a ton of my own ideas but I just can't settle on one. I've looked through some of the other posts and didn't quite see anything too interesting to me personally, however if an idea receives some overwhelming support I might just go with it anyways. So here's what I need:

What incremental game idea would you like me to develop for you guys? This will be a huge project for me, and ideally as high-quality as I can make it before the deadline. I'l provide updates here as often as I can and you guys will be the first to try it out pre-release. Let me know what you think!

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Top Video Game Projects to Sharpen Your Skills and Build Your Video Game Portfolio

The market performance of PS5 and Xbox Series X is a testament to the growing video game industry and the countless job opportunities within it. Why not become a marketable candidate for the video game sector? If you have experience in video game development, you can build a solid portfolio. Read our list of the best video game projects to gain experience and build your portfolio.

Various game development companies seek individuals with gaming industry experience, from indie game studios to big companies like Sony, Microsoft, Electronic Arts, Ubisoft, and more. Our article caters to all levels of learners and will cover video game projects for beginners, intermediate, and advanced learners. 

Find your bootcamp match

5 skills that video game projects can help you practice.

It’s one thing to be knowledgeable about gaming consoles and trends, but it’s another to dedicate time to creating and designing games themselves. Below are the top five skills you’ll need to practice to complete video game projects effectively and land a job in the game development scene.

• Game Programming. If you want to pursue a career in game development, you need to master game programming language skills. You need to learn popular languages like C++, C#, Python, JavaScript, Java, and HTML5. 
• 2D and 3D Animation. If you want to become a video game animator, you need to master 2D and 3D animation skills. You should be fluent in software like Adobe Animate CC, Photoshop, and Adobe Illustrator.
• Game Design. To enter the game design fields, you need to understand visual design, character design, gameplay, game strategy, game currency, and sound design skills.
• Game Writing Skills. If you want to become a game scriptwriter, you should master storyboarding, storyline, character dialogue, and gameplay skills. 
• Game Engine Skills. The game development and game design industries are heavily reliant on popular game engines. So, you need to master Unity Engine, Unreal Engine, and GameMaker to showcase your video game project skills. 

Best Video Game Project Ideas for Beginners 

The best video game project ideas for beginners apply to foundational storytelling, game development, character development, and game design skills. With these skills, you also need to acquire a working knowledge of popular game engine platforms.

According to Statistica.com, the 2021 value of the video game market in the U.S. alone is 65.49 billion dollars. These projects will help you kickstart your professional journey into this multi-billion dollar industry. Read below to find video game beginner projects covering client-server games, tabletop games, game platforms, and game designs.

• Video Game Skills Practiced: Game strategy, micro:bit, and game design skills. 

This beginner’s game project is for video game novices looking to understand the gaming industry and techniques. First, you’ll create a paperback version of a board game before utilizing micro:bit to program the game according to your specifications. 

You can take inspiration from beloved games such as Catan and Scrabble for your tabletop game idea. For those who want to become a freelance game developer or game designer, adding campaign marketing skills to your portfolio is very helpful. So, be sure to explore board game campaigns during this project.

2D RPG with Unity

• Video Game Skills Practiced: Game design, character development, and Unity 2D skills. 

If you want to become a game developer , you must add lucrative game development projects to your portfolio. This beginner’s project will help you kickstart your portfolio-building process. You will need to have Unity, C#, game design, and game strategy skills incorporated into your debut game. 

This project uses Unity 2D to create a game using the ready-made microgame templates available in the platform’s 2D platformer. You will create a 2D RPG using the platform’s 2D tools. You will provide dialogue and description of game characters, make a game mode for game players, and design game levels using the Unity Editor Interface. 

3D Haunted Jaunt Game with Unity

• Video Game Skills Practiced: Game design, Unity 3D, and game development skills. 

Unity’s own popular John Lemon’s Haunted Jaunt is the perfect 3D game to base your next project on. This is another beginner’s project that uses the Unity Engine for development purposes. You need to have foundational C# coding, 3D game design and development, and a solid foundation in Unity’s 3D game kit.

In this particular project, you will use John Lemon’s Haunted Jaunt 3D game as a source to create your own game with GameObject. You can familiarize yourself with Unity Editor, custom codes, and game experiences and materials to make your own flavorful game through this project.

Video Game Character

• Video Game Skills Practiced: Visual design, storytelling, graphic design, Adobe Illustrator, and 3D digital sketching skills. 

A video game character’s visual and graphic design elements are pivotal in every game. Whether a bouncy cartoon game or an educational computer game, you must create an optimal character design to obtain a user’s undivided attention. This project allows you to practice this skill you’ll need to break into the game design sector. 

You will need to gain foundational graphic design, animation, computer programming, and sound design to do this project. You will use Adobe Illustrator to create 3D digital characters. Be sure to pay attention to the character backstory, surrounding silhouette, backdrop image, character poses, and character complexity while designing your video game character.  

Asteroids Game

• Video Game Skills Practiced: Python, Pygame, and game development skills. 

This project will help you practice your programming skills and enhance your game development skills. To build this game, you need to have a basic understanding of images, user input, game logic, game objects, texts, sound design, and collisions. 

Asteroids Game is one of the beloved earliest computer games, and you will recreate this game using Python and Pygame. You will create a single spaceship that can rotate, accelerate, and shoot.

Best Intermediate Video Game Project Ideas 

The best intermediate video game project ideas are for entry-level game developers or game designer students looking to expand their video game tech skills. To do these projects, you need to understand game engines, gaming languages, and game designs in-depth. You can acquire these skills through self study and by enrolling in a gaming bootcamp .

Cloud-Based Game

• Video Game Skills Practiced: AWS cloud, Amazon Games, and Cloud-based 3D game development skills. 

If you want to pursue a video gaming career at Amazon Games, adding this project to your portfolio is worth it. Amazon Games offers excellent application scaling architecture and development networks to aid your game production journey. 

To do this project, you will need to acquire intermediate skills in cloud application development and the AWS cloud platform. You will also need to learn Python, Erlang, and JavaScript to build a 3D game. You will use AWS’s backend services to create a flexible and scalable game app. 

You will then run the game application using the company’s game servers and game analytics features. To grow your game player base, you can use Amazon’s AI and machine learning services.

Gameplay Module

• Video Game Skills Practiced: C++, Unreal Engine 4, and Gameplay module skills. 

A gameplay module is a foundational element of the game development process that corresponds to the dynamic libraries of the Unreal Engine. In this project, you will use C++ on Unreal Engine 4 to create a gameplay module. 

To begin, you’ll set up the C++ project and module testing directories. Then, you’ll create your Build.cs file before finalizing your module in C++. From there, you can add in any source code to customize the final product.

Putt-Putt Game

• Video Game Skills Practiced: JavaScript, Game development, and Microsoft MakeCode Arcade skills. 

JavaScript is another popular interactive video game language, so if you want to showcase your programming skills, this project idea is for you. In this project, you will use the Microsoft MakeCode Arcade game editor to build a Planet Putt-Putt game using JavaScript. Putt-Putt is a popular character that might be familiar to the average video game player. 

You need to master sound design, game loops, visual design, game variables, and JavaScript. To begin, you’ll code foundational game elements like game sprites, controls, gameplay, sounds, and game scenes. You will then move on to creating game rules and game loops and logic. Microsoft MakeCode Arcade provides a rich development platform that’s easy to use. 

Gameplay Framework

• Video Game Skills Practiced: Gameplay framework and Unreal Engine skills. 

If you want to become a game designer with expertise in user interface design and game development, this project might be for you. In this exercise, you will create a functional gameplay framework using the Unreal Engine. 

You need to learn user interface design , game design, game controllers, and character inputs. To start, you will work with the foundational gameplay frameworks such as game rules, user interfaces, and game controllers. Once you’ve designed all the core elements, you’ll move on to the game mode and state, where you will add the player inputs and functions. 

Socio-World Geolocation Game

• Video Game Skills Practiced: Augmented reality, game development, and Unity 3D engine skills. 

Augmented reality and virtual reality are two expansive industries closely associated with the world of video games. If you are interested in becoming a game developer or a game designer in the augmented reality sector, this project is for you. In this project, you will develop an AR geolocation game for multiple platforms. 

You will use the Unity 3D engine to develop this game. You will create a game where players will drop bombs and potholes to trap their opponents. You could add AR maps, real-time chats and video chats, multiplayer, travel mode, and leaderboard features to this AR game. 

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Best Advanced Video Game Project Ideas

Below are the best expert video game projects for professionals looking to climb into senior game development and design positions. To do these projects, you need a solid grasp of software development, mobile application development, game design, and user interface design. 

Automated QA System

• Video Game Skills Practiced: Game testing, quality assurance, Unity 3D engine, and mobile development. 

If you want to pursue a career in the software testing sector, this game testing project idea is for you. The project requires you to understand UX/UI testing, graphics inspections, game flow analysis, sound testing, and quality testing. You will use Unity 3D engine’s automated mobile game testing features to do this project. 

You will record your user interface interactions, run the automated quality assurance testing code, test the QA code on your mobile device, and run the QA code using the Unity test framework. Notably, this project requires you to have a completed mobile base game to perform automated quality testing. 

Game Prototyping

• Video Game Skills Practiced: Game prototyping, QA testing, and game design skills. 

Video game prototyping is essential for creating a bug-free and immersive game design. In this project, you will make a rapid video game prototyping program while keeping user experience into account. You need to master game development, quality assurance testing, and game design processes to do this project. 

Depending on your preference, you can use Mockplus, Unity Engine, or your choice of wireframing and prototyping tool to do this project. This project is best suited for game designers, product designers, and UX/UI designers.  

Video Game Trailor

• Video Game Skills Practiced: Game cinematics design, Goodbye Kansas Studios, and animation skills. 

If you are interested in pursuing a creative and cinematic career in the video game industry, this advanced game cinematic design project is for you. This project will allow you to showcase your character design, game trailer, 3D modeling, and animation skills. 

To create a game trailer, you’ll utilize creature design, motion capture, VFX, crowd simulation, storyboarding, CG cinematics, motion graphics, and animations. This project is also suitable for 3D animation, motion graphics, and game development portfolios and shows that you have your thumb on the pulse on corporate-style game development projects.

Build Architecture Code 

• Video Game Skills Practiced: Game architecture coding and Unity Engine skills. 

The Unity Engine offers many solutions, including 2D design, 3D development, automated QA testing, and robust game architecture software. This project will build a game architecture code for your application’s scalability using Unity’s software. 

You will begin by adding simple UI and game logic code, then add the code for GameObjects, and Prefabs. The following steps include splitting the monobehaviour elements to regular C# class code and implementing ball logic into the user interface. You will then code the game’s software architecture by working on the object data, logic, scenes, and automation testing processes.  

Video Game Script

• Video Game Skills Practiced: Scriptwriting and game design skills.

Video game projects aren’t simply limited to game development and game design tasks. If you are interested in becoming a video game writer, then this project idea is for you. There are tons of screenwriting software you can use to do this project. 

Depending on your video game’s genre, you will need to add specific flow charts, side quests, character biographies, character dialogues, cut scenes, and final storyboard script relevant to the game type. Be sure to include the location, music, and player goal elements into the script. 

Video Game Starter Project Templates

Video game starter project templates act as a guide for your development, design, or animation projects. If you’re interested in creating a project but want to cut down your production days, here are some online resources to get started.

• Race n Chase game design template . If you are new to the world of game design and need a template guiding you through a game’s crucial design elements, then this template is for you. It covers the aspects of game design scopes, conventions, concept, story, objective, and players. 
• LinkedIn’s free game design GDD template doc . This game design doc template covers crucial design elements, including art style, user interface style, character design, story, game economy, and game objectives. 
• GameDevTemplateJS . This game dev template aims to help you develop games using Node.js, Grunt, and JavaScript libraries.    
• Unity game development templates . This project template will allow you to do projects on the popular game development platform Unity. You can choose to buy the Unity game templates that you find most interesting. 
• Unreal Engine video game project templates . Similar to the Unity Engine, Unreal Engine is also a popular game development platform. You can use these project templates to do several game projects on the platform. 

Next Steps: Start Organizing Your Video Game Portfolio

If you want to enhance your candidacy in the video game job market, you should organize your video game portfolio. Working on projects is a great way to build your skills and your professional portfolio at the same time. Below are three tips you can use to expand your portfolio. 

Add Unity and Unreal Engine Projects

If you want to pursue a career in game development, add examples of Unity and Unreal Engine game development projects to your portfolio. Be sure to add diverse projects that cover game design, game architecture, character design, and storyboarding areas of game development. Both platforms offer many project templates you can use as a guide.  

Obtain Animation and Script Writing Experience

If you are interested in pursuing a career in screenwriting, animation, or game design, then 2D and 3D animation and video game screenwriting projects will enhance your portfolio. Be sure to create designs and storylines that provide an exciting gaming experience to get the player engaged for hours of content.

Get Certified

Certifications are a great way to showcase and prove your game development and game design skills. Some of the potential certifications available to game developers include Unity Engine game development and game design certifications.

Video Game Projects FAQ

Video game project ideas cover several gaming areas, including game development, game design, 2D and 3D animation, character design, game architecture, and screenwriting. Creating a game that uses any of these skills will make for a great educational project.

Unity Engine, Unreal Engine, GameMaker, and RPG Maker are some of the most popular game engines on which you can make video game projects. While Unity is known for its 3D games, GameMaker and RPG Maker are some of the best 2D game engines .

It will take you a few hours to a few months, or even years to develop video game projects depending on your game development background and the game complexity. If you are new to the game development sector, then building the crucial tech skills could take several weeks.

Some of the top video game companies include Sony Interactive Entertainment, Activision Blizzard, Nintendo, Ubisoft, and Gameloft. 

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Senior-level Jobs in the Video Game Industry: The Ultimate Guide

Introduction

This comprehensive guide explores senior-level opportunities in the video game industry, covering a range of roles from technical and creative positions to managerial and executive roles. Alongside an examination of various senior-level positions and their respective salary ranges, the article also provides valuable tips for career advancement, focusing on leadership development and industry networking. Additionally, the guide offers insights into transitioning from other sectors, emphasizing the importance of building a gaming-specific portfolio and obtaining relevant certifications or training. We hope it can help you to unlock your full potential and thrive in the ever-growing gaming industry.

Senior-Level Roles in the Video Game Industry

Technical Director ($100,000–150,000 USD per year): Technical directors oversee the technical aspects of a game's development, ensuring that the game's design and art are seamlessly integrated into the underlying technology. They manage a team of programmers, provide technical guidance, and collaborate with other departments to ensure the game's vision is realized. Senior-level technical directors should have extensive programming experience, strong leadership skills, and a deep understanding of game development pipelines.

Lead Game Designer ($80,000–120,000 USD per year): Lead game designers are responsible for guiding the overall design vision of a game, supervising a team of game designers, and collaborating with other departments to ensure a cohesive player experience. They create design documents, mentor junior designers, and make critical design decisions throughout the development process. Senior-level lead game designers should have a strong track record of successful game design projects and proven leadership abilities.

Art Director ($70,000–120,000 USD per year): Art directors oversee the visual direction of a video game, managing a team of artists and ensuring that the game's visuals are consistent, high-quality, and aligned with the game's overall vision. They collaborate with other departments, provide creative guidance, and establish the visual style of the game. Senior-level art directors should have a solid background in game art, a strong portfolio showcasing their artistic skills, and experience leading a team of artists.

Lead Game Programmer ($90,000–130,000 USD per year): Lead game programmers are responsible for managing a team of programmers and overseeing the development of a game's core systems and features. They coordinate with other departments, implement technical solutions, and ensure that the game's codebase is efficient, maintainable, and scalable. Senior-level lead game programmers should have a deep understanding of programming languages, game engines, and software development best practices, along with strong leadership and communication skills.

Studio Director ($100,000–200,000+ USD per year): Studio directors are responsible for managing the overall operations and strategy of a game development studio. They oversee multiple projects, allocate resources, and make critical business decisions. Senior-level studio directors should have a strong background in game development, extensive management experience, and the ability to create and execute a strategic vision for the studio.

Executive Producer ($90,000–150,000 USD per year): Executive producers are responsible for overseeing the entire game development process, managing budgets, and ensuring that the game meets its objectives in terms of quality, revenue, and player satisfaction. They work closely with other department leads and external partners, making critical decisions to guide the project to success. Senior-level executive producers should have extensive experience in game production and a track record of successful game releases.

Creative Director ($85,000–150,000 USD per year): Creative directors guide the overall creative vision of a video game, working closely with designers, artists, and other team members to create a cohesive and engaging player experience. They provide creative leadership, establish the game's narrative and design direction, and ensure that the game's vision is effectively communicated to the development team. Senior-level creative directors should have a strong background in game design, storytelling, and visual arts, along with proven leadership abilities.

User Experience (UX) Director ($80,000–130,000 USD per year): UX directors are responsible for ensuring that a game's user experience is intuitive, engaging, and enjoyable. They lead a team of UX designers, conduct user research, and collaborate with other departments to implement user-centered design principles throughout the game development process. Senior-level UX directors should have a deep understanding of UX design methodologies, experience leading a team, and a track record of creating successful game experiences for players.

Business Development Director ($90,000–150,000 USD per year): Business development directors are responsible for identifying and pursuing growth opportunities for a game development studio, such as partnerships, acquisitions, or new market entry. They work closely with the executive team to develop and implement strategic plans and manage relationships with external partners. Senior-level business development directors should have a strong background in business strategy, negotiation, and relationship management, along with a deep understanding of the gaming industry landscape.

Head of Marketing and PR ($80,000–130,000 USD per year): The head of marketing and PR oversees all marketing, public relations, and promotional efforts for a game development studio or publisher. They develop marketing strategies, manage budgets, and lead a team of marketing and PR professionals to achieve the company's objectives in terms of brand awareness, user acquisition, and player retention. Senior-level heads of marketing and PR should have extensive experience in marketing and public relations, a deep understanding of the gaming industry, and strong leadership skills.

Tips for Advancing to Senior-Level Positions in the Video Game Industry

Advancing to senior-level positions in the gaming industry requires a focus on leadership development, specialization, networking, and cultivating a track record of success. This section offers practical guidance on honing leadership skills, building expertise in specific areas, expanding your professional network, and demonstrating a history of accomplishments, all of which are essential for ascending to senior roles in the dynamic video game industry.

Develop Strong Leadership Skills

As you advance in the gaming industry, your leadership skills will become increasingly important. Focus on honing your ability to manage teams, make strategic decisions, and effectively communicate with others.

Specialize in Your Area of Expertise

Senior-level positions often require a deep understanding of specific aspects of the game development process. Consider focusing on a particular area, such as programming, design, or art, and build your expertise through additional training, certifications, or advanced degrees.

Build a Strong Professional Network

A robust professional network can open doors to new opportunities and provide valuable insights into industry trends and best practices. Attend industry events, join professional associations, and engage with other professionals on social media platforms like LinkedIn , X , and even Discord to build your network and visibility within the gaming community.

Cultivate a Track Record of Success

Having a history of successful projects and accomplishments can demonstrate your ability to deliver results and lead teams effectively. Strive for excellence in your work, and don't be afraid to take on challenging projects that push you to grow and learn.

Transitioning to Senior-Level Positions from Other Sectors

Making a successful transition to senior-level roles in the video game industry from other sectors involves leveraging your management experience, gaining industry knowledge, creating a gaming-specific portfolio, and acquiring relevant certifications or training. This section highlights the importance of understanding the gaming landscape, showcasing your passion for the industry, and building connections with gaming professionals to facilitate a smooth and rewarding entry into senior-level positions within the gaming world.

Leverage Your Management and Leadership Experience

If you're transitioning from a senior role in another sector, your management and leadership experience can be a valuable asset in the gaming industry. Emphasize your ability to lead teams, manage budgets, and make strategic decisions when applying for senior-level roles.

Develop an Understanding of the Gaming Industry

Before making the leap, familiarize yourself with the gaming industry, including its key players, terminology, and trends. Understanding the unique aspects of the video game industry will help you better position yourself for a smooth transition and demonstrate your commitment to potential employers. Our news portal is a great source of general gaming news, both business and otherwise.

Build a Gaming-Specific Portfolio

Even if you have extensive experience in another sector, creating a gaming-specific portfolio can demonstrate your passion and commitment to the industry. Collaborate on game projects, contribute to open-source initiatives, or develop your own gaming prototypes to showcase your skills and knowledge.

Obtain Relevant Certifications or Training

Acquiring relevant certifications or training can help bridge the gap between your current expertise and the skills required for senior-level roles in the gaming industry. Consider taking courses, attending workshops, or pursuing advanced degrees related to game development or management.

Network with Gaming Industry Professionals

Networking is crucial for anyone transitioning into a new sector, including the gaming industry. Attend industry events, join online communities on Discord, and engage with professionals on social media platforms like LinkedIn and X to build connections and gain valuable insights from experienced professionals in the field.

The video game industry offers a range of senior-level opportunities for professionals with 5+ years of experience, providing increased responsibility and leadership potential. By understanding the different roles available, focusing on leadership development, and leveraging your existing experience, you can unlock your full potential and advance your career in this dynamic and growing industry. Additionally, if you're transitioning from another sector, understanding the gaming landscape, building a gaming-specific portfolio, and networking with industry professionals can help you make a successful and rewarding transition into senior-level roles in the video game industry.

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My Self-imposed senior project: A video game system.

Back in 2006 when I was graduating from my undergrad program I decided that I would like to make a video game system for a senior project. I wasn’t required to do a senior project but I thought it would be a good thing to do and present it to students. Dubbed “The Vulture”, this project changed quite a bit from start to finish and since I had only 3 months I had to make some tough choices. Originally I wanted to fit a small Linux distro on my system and run from that, but I ended up doing a bunch of scripting in dos as I could not get a quick boot from Linux. Also the hardware I ended up with was totally different, I originally bought 30 zero footprint computers form a surplus sale but ended up with a really small board made for kiosks. In the end the system could boot, recognize what disc was a game disc and of course play games. I only made one game for the system, Doom, and it worked great! Who knew I would eventually end up working on both the Xbox 360, Xbox One as well as Surface!

What is a Video Game Designer?

Learn about the role of Video Game Designer, what they do on a daily basis, and what it's like to be one.

• What is a Video Game Designer
• How to Become
• Certifications
• Tools & Software
• LinkedIn Guide
• Interview Questions
• Work-Life Balance
• Professional Goals
• Resume Examples
• Cover Letter Examples

Start Your Video Game Designer Career with Teal

Definition of a Video Game Designer

What does a video game designer do, key responsibilities of a video game designer.

• Developing original game concepts, including storylines, characters, and gameplay mechanics
• Creating detailed design documents that outline the game's vision and serve as a guide for the development team
• Designing level layouts and gameplay scenarios that are fun, challenging, and in line with the overall game concept
• Collaborating with artists, programmers, audio designers, and other team members to ensure a cohesive and engaging game experience
• Prototyping gameplay mechanics to test and refine ideas before full-scale production
• Conducting playtesting sessions to gather feedback and identify areas for improvement
• Balancing game mechanics and systems for fairness, challenge, and player progression
• Staying current with gaming trends, technologies, and advancements to apply innovative ideas to game design
• Adjusting game designs based on technical constraints, platform specifications, and publisher requirements
• Working with writers and narrative designers to integrate story elements seamlessly into gameplay
• Communicating effectively with stakeholders, including publishers, marketing teams, and upper management, to align the game's design with business objectives
• Iterating on game designs throughout the development process to respond to feedback and ensure the highest quality product

Day to Day Activities for Video Game Designer at Different Levels

Daily responsibilities for entry level video game designers.

• Designing simple game levels or components under supervision
• Creating basic character models, textures, and environments
• Assisting with the implementation of game mechanics
• Participating in design brainstorming sessions
• Testing game prototypes and providing feedback
• Learning and applying industry-standard software and tools

Daily Responsibilities for Mid Level Video Game Designers

• Developing and iterating on game mechanics and systems
• Designing complex game levels and scenarios
• Collaborating with artists, programmers, and audio designers to integrate various game elements
• Conducting playtests and incorporating user feedback into design revisions
• Documenting design processes and decisions
• Presenting game concepts and updates to stakeholders

Daily Responsibilities for Senior Video Game Designers

• Leading the game design process from concept to completion
• Managing and mentoring a team of designers
• Setting creative direction and ensuring design coherence across the game
• Collaborating with producers and department leads to align on project goals
• Communicating with publishers and marketing teams to support the game's release
• Staying updated with industry trends and incorporating innovative design strategies

Types of Video Game Designers

Gameplay designer, level designer, narrative designer, systems designer, user interface (ui) designer, multiplayer designer, what's it like to be a video game designer , video game designer work environment, video game designer working conditions, how hard is it to be a video game designer, is a video game designer a good career path, faqs about video game designers, how do video game designers collaborate with other teams within a company, what are some common challenges faced by video game designers, what does the typical career progression look like for video game designers.

How To Become a Video Game Designer in 2024

Related Career Paths

Creating immersive gaming worlds, transforming ideas into stunning visual experiences

Shaping immersive gaming worlds with stunning 3D artistry, bringing fantasy to life

Creating immersive game worlds with 2D art, bringing player experiences to life

Shaping user experiences through intuitive design, bridging the gap between user and product

Leading creative vision, inspiring teams to produce innovative and compelling designs

• Games for Seniors

64 Top Games for Seniors and the Elderly: Fun for All Abilities

By Publisher | Last updated March 14, 2024

Get ready to play! It's time to learn about the best games for seniors so that you can reap the benefits of having fun . After all, joy, amusement, and mental stimulation are necessary for every senior's overall well-being. And we all have days when we just want to spend a little time doing something engaging.

Games provide convenient ways to have fun, alone or in a group. They eradicate boredom, relieve stress, and make parties and other social engagements easier, more enjoyable, and less intimidating. They also help exercise our brains. For some people, playing certain games might benefit things like mood, memory, concentration, reasoning, and imagination. Games might be especially helpful for your brain if they require you to learn something new.

Plus, countless games can be modified for seniors or elderly people with physical or cognitive limitations. For example, it's easy to find or create games with large type, which is good for older people with vision problems. And if time or attention spans are a concern, many games can be played and completed in less than 30 minutes.

The variety of senior-friendly games that are now available is astonishing. To help you narrow down the possibilities, we've provided some of the best examples within seven main categories:

This article contains affiliate links. We are compensated with a small commission, at no extra cost to you, for sales made through the links.

Puzzle, Tile, and Board Games

Tabletop games are fantastic for social gatherings. That's why many seniors turn to this form of entertainment, especially when they want to encourage friends or family members to visit. Plus, a study in BMJ Open suggests that playing board games might help slow cognitive decline or reduce depression in elderly people. And since board games are generally played sitting down, they are good for seniors with limited mobility.

The best board games for seniors are fun, absorbing, and challenging (without being too complicated). They are also great for multi-generational play. Here are some popular examples:

1. Qwirkle : Mix and match tiles with different shapes and colors, scoring points by completing or adding to lines of the same shapes or colors.

2. Dixit : Out-bluff your opponents while using your imagination to match stories to beautifully illustrated cards.

3. Ticket to Ride : Claim as many North American railway routes as possible by collecting illustrated train cards and reaching more cities than your opponents within a short time.

4. Rummikub : Be the first to play all your numbered tiles by placing them in consecutive sequences or groups of the same numbers or colors.

5. Sorry! Sliders : Slide your pawns into home or take out your opponents' pawns in this twist on the classic Sorry! game that ditches the cards in favor of a mini-shuffleboard type of experience.

6. Ubongo : Race against other players as you try to solve puzzles of interlocking geometric shapes to grow your treasure of gems.

7. Jenga : Beware of gravity as you try not to be the one who pulls out the wooden block that makes the whole tower come crashing down.

8. Bugs in the Kitchen : Set the path and lure the little scuttling bug into your trap before anyone else.

9. Cranium : Be the first one to circle the board by successfully solving puzzles and other challenges that will have you acting, guessing, sculpting, sketching, and humming.

10. Backgammon : Beat your opponent by getting lucky, planning your moves, and being the first to get each of your 15 checkers off the board.

11. Chess : Use your most creative strategies to protect your king while outwitting your opponent and putting his or her king into checkmate.

12. Mahjong : Be the first player to build a winning combination of tiles based on rummy-like groupings of symbols and characters.

13. Checkers : Capture and remove all 12 of your opponent's game pieces before he or she can do the same to you.

14. Dominos : Play all of your domino tiles before the other players by laying them down end-to-end with matching tiles that have already been played.

Video Games for Seniors

According to a 2019 article from Entertainment Software Association , 25 percent of men and 22 percent of women between the ages of 55 and 64 have been video game players (aka "gamers") for more than 25 years. AARP states that 45 percent of all 50-plus adults play video games. And almost half of those gamers play video games every day. So there seems to be a lot to love about this type of entertainment, regardless of your age.

Video games offer a form of visual and auditory engagement that most other kinds of games can't match. Many of them provide truly thrilling experiences as well as opportunities to connect with other players (of all ages). They are downright fun.

But here's something you should know: Some electronic game developers claim that their "brain training" products can improve your brain health and cognitive performance. However, their marketing is often misleading. The science behind brain-training games is controversial at best. Many of the world's top psychologists and neuroscientists say there is little or no solid evidence to support claims that certain kinds of video games can improve a senior's mental faculties.

The truth is that "brain games" may not boost your cognitive abilities for everyday life or prevent or slow down brain-related diseases. Rather, by playing a game repeatedly, you'll get better at the particular tasks for that game (and possibly other tasks that are very closely related to them). But you won't necessarily get better at doing unrelated tasks in the "real world" outside of the game. If you really want to improve your brain health, you're better off exercising , getting good sleep, and learning new things.

That said, if a video game is completely new to you, then your brain may benefit from the challenge of learning how to play it. And you can't overlook the pure enjoyment factor . After all, having fun should be your top reason for playing any video game.

According to AARP, the most popular types of video games among older adults are card, tile, puzzle, and logic games. But many seniors also enjoy strategy, role-playing, and action-oriented games. So try out several different kinds and see what you enjoy.

Most seniors play video games on their laptops or desktop computers . But you can also play games on a smartphone , digital tablet , handheld game console , or TV game console (such as the Nintendo Switch , Sony PlayStation , or Microsoft Xbox ). Games for computers and mobile devices can often be downloaded for free or played online at no cost. Here are some electronic games that are especially worth checking out:

1. Match-three puzzle games like Bejeweled , Candy Crush Saga , and Gummy Drop involve switching around colorful shapes to form three-of-a-kind matches within a time limit or fixed number of moves, then moving to the next level. They are typically played on a mobile phone or tablet.

2. Snipperclips Plus : Solve all kinds of creative puzzles in this funny game for the Nintendo Switch by interacting with various objects and cutting paper characters into different shapes.

3. Puyo Puyo Tetris : Quickly rotate and position falling blobs of color or shaped blocks so that they land in places that will help complete a puzzle in this game for the Nintendo Switch.

4. Words With Friends 2 : Challenge your friends or family to a crossword-style mobile game that's similar to Scrabble.

5. AARP's free online games : Play a huge variety of card, puzzle, word, strategy, sports, and arcade games directly in your web browser.

6. Gametable's free online games : Enjoy easy-to-play games like checkers and tic-tac-toe on your computer or mobile device without any distracting ads.

When it comes to portability, it's hard to beat a deck of cards. After all, card games don't require any electricity. In most cases, aside from cards, you only need a flat surface (and sometimes a paper and pen). Generation after generation has celebrated card games for their ability to facilitate pressure-free social gatherings, relaxing recreation, and memorable conversations. Whether you play games of chance or strategy (or both), you’ll likely have tons of fun. You can make these games even more accessible by purchasing oversized playing cards , decks with large print , playing card holders , or an automatic card shuffler .

Here are some of the most popular card games among seniors:

1. Gin Rummy : Get all your playing cards into sequences (i.e., cards in a consecutive order according to their rank) and/or groups of the same rank before your opponent does.

2. Bridge : Choose a playing partner and work together to defeat another team by making "bids" and winning "tricks."

3. Canasta : Play this rummy-style game with a partner, scoring points by collecting sets of cards with the same rank.

4. Cribbage : Use a special cribbage board (optional) to keep score as you try to win by being the first player to reach 121 points.

5. Spades : Partner up with somebody and play together as you "bid" on the strength of your hands and get as close as you can to that estimate when winning "tricks."

6. Crazy Eights : Get rid of all your cards before the other players by laying down eights or cards of a specified suit.

7. Pinochle : Exchange and collect various combinations of playing cards to score as many points as possible per an opening "bid".

8. Euchre : Team up with a partner and win at least three out of five "tricks" in this fast-moving game that is similar to bridge.

9. UNO : Be the first player to get rid of all your cards by matching them, one by one, to the upturned color or number cards on the top of the deck when it's your turn.

10. Phase 10 : Complete 10 hands of rummy-style play, each requiring you to collect a different grouping of cards or risk being left behind.

11. No Thanks! : Try to get the lowest score by constantly weighing the potential consequences of picking up a particular card or playing one of your chips.

Sometimes, the only things you need to have fun are a few dice , a pad of paper, and a pencil. Like cards, dice are ultra-portable. And dice games just as much enjoyment and social bonding. Plus, there's something uniquely satisfying about rolling the dice and watching them all land exactly as you had hoped. Try popular dice games like:

1. Bunco : Win a game of Bunco by earning as many points as you can by rolling numbers.

2. Mexico : Be the last player standing by avoiding the lowest roll in each round.

3. Liar's Dice : Outlast your opponents by successfully deceiving them and recognizing when they are bluffing you.

4. Farkle : Race your opponents to a predetermined scoring level by constantly deciding between taking a risk or playing it safe.

5. Yahtzee : Defeat your competition by rolling the highest-scoring combinations.

6. Can't Stop : Beat the other players by taking risks, getting lucky, and avoiding the trap of being too much of a gambler for your own good.

Word and Number Games

Many seniors enjoy keeping their math or language skills sharp by playing fun games or solving satisfying puzzles related to words or numbers. Great options are available for playing solo or as part of a group. Consider these examples:

1. Crossword Puzzles : Solve clues to fill out a grid of squares with interconnected words and phrases.

2. Word Search : Discover and circle all the hidden words in a grid of letters.

3. Sudoku : Fill out a partially completed grid of numbers so that each row, column, and sub-grid contains all of the numbers from one to nine.

4. Kakuro : Fill out each white square of the puzzle with a number from one to nine so that the sums of the entries in each row or column match the associated clues.

5. Scrabble : Outscore your opponents by strategically forming new words or adding to existing ones on a crossword-style board.

6. Boggle : Shake a tray of 16 letter dice and spot more words in the randomized grid of letters than your opponent does before the time runs out.

7. Scattergories : Partner up and defeat the other teams by coming up with creative answers that all match a specific category, contain the same first letter, and won't be thought of by your opponents.

8. Balderdash : Fool the other players by making them believe your fake answers or definitions represent the truth about obscure words, people, and movies.

Indoor Games for Large Groups

Many nursing homes and assisted living communities regularly organize fun games that large groups of residents can participate in. The best activities directors try to keep things fresh by changing things up frequently. Most games in this category are homemade and require only time and creativity to pull together. You can put your own spin on any of them. Plus, many of them can be used as fun party games for seniors or elderly residents celebrating birthdays or other milestones. Use the following examples as inspiration:

1. Bingo : Be the first player to match five numbers in a row (or another pattern) in this popular game of chance.

2. Smile Toss: Prepare to laugh when playing this great balloon game for seniors. Draw a smiley face on a balloon. Sit in a circle with the other players. Have someone be in charge of playing some recorded music and stopping it randomly. As the music plays, pass the balloon around the circle to each other. If you're left holding the balloon when the music stops, you must try not to smile for at least 10 seconds. If you do smile, you'll have to leave the circle. The last person remaining wins the game.

3. The Best (or Worst) Advice My Parents Ever Gave Me: Choose someone to be the judge. Pass out slips of paper and have everyone write down the best advice they ever received from their mom or dad. Have the judge collect all the answers, read them out loud, and select the top three. Then, get each of those three winners to write down the worst advice they ever received from their parents. Have the judge collect them, read them aloud, and select the final winner.

4. Fact or Fiction?: Get some books about strange or funny facts, such as 1,227 Quite Interesting Facts to Blow Your Socks Off or Mind = Blown: Amazing Facts About This Weird, Hilarious, Insane World . Select five weird facts from the books, make up five other fake facts, and randomly number them from one to 10. Pass out a sheet of paper to each player that is numbered from one to 10. One by one, read each strange (or fake) fact out loud and ask the players to write down whether it is fact or fiction. To determine the winner(s), collect the sheets and find out who had the most correct guesses.

5. The Price Is Right: Go to the store and buy four common, lower-priced items as well as four mid- to higher-priced items to use as prizes, being sure to write down their prices. Put everyone's name in a bowl. Draw four names to become the first contestants. Showcase your first item and have them each guess its price. The person closest to the actual price without going over is the winner of that round. Draw another name from the bowl to replace that winner. Continue the process for the other common items until you have four winners. Then, have each of the four winners guess the total of the four higher-priced items to determine the final winner of those prizes.

6. Photo Puzzle Race: Get large color prints on heavy stock of various photos, preferably of the people who will be playing the game. Cut each of the photo prints into relatively small puzzle pieces. Divide players into teams and have them compete to see which team can solve its puzzle the fastest.

7. Name That Tune: Choose a selection of songs that will create feelings of nostalgia for the seniors who will be playing the game. Gather everyone together a day ahead of time to listen to each song and learn the artists and song titles. On game day, start playing one of the songs, pausing the music after a few seconds. See if anyone can guess what it is. Keep playing and pausing the song until someone makes a correct guess. Do the same thing for the remaining songs. Give prizes to each of the winners.

8. Year of Invention: Collect 10 everyday objects and find out when they were first invented. Put them all on a table, numbered from one to 10. Hand out sheets of paper numbered the same way and have each player write down the year they think each object was invented. (Make sure that nobody has access to an Internet-enabled device.) Score each player's sheet: six points for correctly guessing the exact year, three points for being within 50 years, or one point for being within 100 years. The player with the highest point total wins the game.

Outdoor Games

Don't overlook the benefits of physical games. For seniors with good or decent mobility, getting outside can provide opportunities for enjoyable exercise that boosts overall health and well-being. For instance, many older adults who are in good shape enjoy playing tennis games. But you don't necessarily have to do something quite so active. Here are several other popular outdoor games:

1. Shuffleboard : Win by sliding your colored disks into the highest scoring zones and strategically knocking out your opponent's disks.

2. Pickleball : Outscore your opponent by using a solid paddle to hit a lightweight ball over a net while avoiding tennis-like faults.

3. Bocce : Roll more of your balls closer to the target than your opponent.

4. Water Balloon Toss : Partner with someone else and beat other teams by tossing a water balloon back and forth to each other over an increasing distance without breaking it.

5. Croquet : Be the first one to hit your balls against the center peg by knocking them through a six-hoop course in the proper sequence.

6. Beach Ball Volley: Team up with someone else and try to keep a beach ball in the air longer than any other team as you volley it back and forth to each other over a distance that keeps growing.

7. Lawn Bowling : Roll special balls designed to curve along their path, choosing your shots carefully to get your balls closer to the jack than your opponent's.

8. Horseshoes : Outscore your competition by tossing your horseshoes and getting them to land closer to the stake than your opponent's.

9. Badminton : Win points by hitting a shuttlecock over a net with a special racquet, forcing the opposing player(s) to miss the shuttlecock or hit it out of bounds or into the net.

10. Flying Disc Target Toss : Be the first to score 21 points by hitting various targets with a Frisbee-like disc.

11. Bean Bag Toss : Score 21 points before your opponents by getting your bean bags to land in the hole or within a designated target area.

Get Your Game On!

There's no age limit on the enjoyment of playing games. You deserve to relax, cut loose, and enjoy the many benefits a game of chance or skill can provide. So have fun and let your vitality shine each and every day.

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The Best Video Games for Seniors

9/29/2021 | By Kari Smith

Video games may have a reputation for only appealing to young folks – but many are designed for individuals of all ages! In fact, there are some that even benefit older adults. So, what games are good for seniors? We’ve highlighted some of the best video games for seniors below.

Video games sometimes have the age-old connotation of a teenager staring blankly at a brightly lit screen, motionless for hours except for his fingers rapidly moving on a controller. Fortunately, video games these days can be social and interactive, and are enjoyed by players of any age.

Although balance should be practiced in any activity, playing video games can be a fun way of passing the time, stimulating the brain, and keeping the player engaged. Additionally, keeping the mind active can reduce the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

Gaming consoles and controllers can be costly, but you do not need a large screen or expensive equipment. Many games are available for laptop or desktop computers, lightweight handheld devices, or even your smart phone. Plus, secondhand consoles are often available, since some gamers tend to purchase newer technology and sell older hardware.

Choosing socially interactive games can help stave off loneliness, boredom and depression and can provide an easy connection to friends and family. If your senior loved one lives far away, choose a video game that allows for virtual social interaction, although you should always exercise caution when entering personal information online. Have a tech-savvy loved one help with initial setup if necessary.

So put that tattered crossword puzzle book down, and check out some of the best video games for seniors.

Words with Friends

If you love Scrabble, but don’t have anyone close by to huddle over the board with seven letter tiles, Words with Friends is a great option. Bonus: if you don’t want to wait for a friend to make their move, play in solo mode. This free game is a great way for loved ones to stay in touch, to keep your mind working, and to sharpen your vocabulary skills.

This version of Solitaire offers a senior-friendly experience bold, clear graphics and large, easy-to read cards. Even better – there are no ads to distract from your play.

Animal Crossing

The routine of playing certain social simulation games can be helpful in aiding with depression – especially for those who are unable to leave their residence due to health or mobility issues. In addition to being a fun escape from reality, Nintendo’s Animal Crossing encourages creative thinking skills and social interaction.

In this game, the player becomes a character who fishes, hunts for fossils, plants, and collects items along with fun, human-like animal characters in the village. Animal Crossing was first released in 2001 as a Nintendo 64 game, but in the two decades since its inception, there have been several spin-off versions made available on a variety of gaming devices.

Minecraft is not just for kids; it’s, in fact, one of the best video games for seniors! Think of online LEGO-building, but with the option of way more than the bin of bricks you had growing up. In this game, you can design, and be as creative as you want. You can also play in “story mode” if you prefer to have a story line to your video gaming experience.

This is a 3-D strategy game that may help improve your memory and coordination. Best of all – if you have a child or grandchild that plays, this connection may be a great way for them to teach you something and play along with you. It is available on many different platforms – including your computer.

Gaming system: Nintendo Wii

Arguably the best gaming system for older adults thanks to its physical exercise aspect, the Nintendo Wii uses motion-sensing technology and on screen-simulations to physically engage in game with lighter impact.

Play tennis or baseball, or go golfing. You can even add a second controller for a little friendly competition with a roommate, or even connect your Wii to friends online. There are additional games and options such as Wii Fit, Just Dance, and other options to best fit your preferred choice of physical activity.

Try a variety of the best video games for seniors

Choosing your first video game will be based on skill. No matter your age, starting a new activity typically means starting with a beginner level. Once you begin to improve, your world will open up to the vast possibilities available. Look for a game that piques your interest. Are you a musician? Try Guitar Hero . Do you enjoy fantasy or role-playing games? Try World of WarCraft . Do you miss golfing with friends? Try PGA Tour .

The things that you used to enjoy doing may very well still be available to you in the form of video games. Play 30 minutes to an hour a day to beat boredom, sharpen your skills, and exercise your body and mind.

Related: The 6 Best Zoom Games for Seniors

Kari Smith is a frequent contributor to Seniors Guide, helping to keep those in the senior industry informed and up-to-date. She's a Virginia native whose love of writing began as a songwriter recording her own music. In addition to teaching music and performing in the Richmond area, Kari also enjoys riding horses and farming.

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9/29/2021 | By Elaine Silvestrini

Apple Watch for Seniors

Engaging Game Ideas for Senior Citizens to Enjoy

Games are not just for kids – they provide a fantastic way for senior citizens to have fun, stay mentally active, and connect with others. Whether you’re looking for game ideas for yourself or a loved one, there are plenty of options to choose from. From classic board games to interactive video games, there’s something for everyone. Let’s explore some game ideas that are perfect for seniors to enjoy.

Key Takeaways:

Puzzle, tile, and board games.

Puzzle games , such as jigsaw puzzles, are not only entertaining but also stimulate the mind and improve visual-spatial skills, memory, and logic. They provide a sense of accomplishment as seniors piece together intricate images. Jigsaw puzzles are available in various difficulty levels, allowing seniors to choose the ones that match their abilities and preferences.

Benefits of Puzzle, Tile, and Board Games for Seniors

“Playing puzzle, tile, and board games not only brings joy and entertainment but also provides numerous cognitive and social benefits for seniors.” – Senior Care Experts

Video Games for Seniors

The world of video games has expanded far beyond just entertainment for young people. Seniors can also benefit from playing video games, as they offer visual and auditory engagement and can enhance cognitive abilities. While some may question the benefits of “brain-training” games, there are numerous video games that can provide enjoyment and mental stimulation for seniors.

Video games provide a unique form of entertainment and cognitive stimulation for seniors. With a wide variety of games available, seniors can find options that suit their interests and abilities. Whether it’s solving puzzles, engaging in strategic thinking, or simply enjoying the visual experience, video games offer a fun and engaging way for seniors to stay mentally active and entertained.

“Playing video games allows seniors to enjoy a new form of entertainment and cognitive stimulation. It’s never too late to start gaming!”

Card Games for Seniors

Popular card games for seniors:.

Card games offer not only entertainment but also a chance to socialize and bond with others. They provide opportunities for friendly competition, laughter, and shared experiences. So gather your friends, family, or fellow seniors, shuffle the deck, and get ready to have a great time!

Dice Games for Seniors

Dice games are simple yet engaging options for senior citizens to enjoy. These games provide a great opportunity for seniors to socialize, exercise their minds, and have fun. Whether played with friends or family, dice games offer a convenient and portable form of entertainment.

For seniors who enjoy elimination-style games, Mexico is a great choice. In this game, players take turns rolling two dice and based on the outcome, eliminate a specific number from their score. The goal is to be the last player remaining. Mexico keeps players engaged until the very end and provides a healthy dose of competition.

Word Games for Seniors

Word games are a fantastic way for seniors to stay mentally active and have fun at the same time. These games help improve language skills, enhance vocabulary, and provide mental stimulation. Whether played alone or with others, word games offer a variety of challenges and opportunities for seniors to exercise their minds. Here are some enjoyable word games that are perfect for elderly individuals:

1. Crossword Puzzles

Boggle is a fast-paced word-finding game that challenges seniors to find as many words as possible within a given time limit. The game consists of a grid of letters, and players must connect adjacent letters to form words. Boggle helps improve memory, concentration, and cognitive abilities. It’s a great game to play with family members or friends.

4. Scrabble

Outdoor games for seniors: fun and engaging activities for the elderly.

Outdoor games offer a wonderful opportunity for seniors to enjoy the fresh air, stay active, and engage with nature. These fun activities can be tailored to suit varying mobility levels and provide a range of benefits for the elderly, including physical exercise, mental stimulation, and social interaction.

Engaging and Accessible Options

Adapting games for individual needs.

Engaging in outdoor games not only provides physical benefits but also promotes mental well-being. The combination of fresh air, physical activity, and social interaction can boost mood, reduce stress, and improve overall quality of life for seniors.

Sporty Games: Keeping Seniors Active and Engaged

Engaging in sports activities is not only fun but also beneficial for seniors’ physical and mental well-being. Participating in sports helps improve cardiovascular health, increase flexibility and strength, enhance cognitive function, and promote social interaction. Whether seniors prefer individual or team-based activities, there are plenty of senior-friendly sports options to choose from.

Tennis: A Game of Skill and Strategy

“Playing tennis has been a game-changer for me as a senior. Not only does it keep me physically active, but it also allows me to meet new people and make lasting friendships. It’s a sport that challenges both my body and mind, keeping me sharp and energized.” – Mary, 67

Golf: A Gentle and Relaxing Pastime

Tai chi: balance and harmony.

Tai Chi is a gentle form of exercise that focuses on slow, flowing movements and deep breathing. It promotes relaxation, flexibility, and balance, making it an ideal activity for seniors of all fitness levels. Tai Chi classes are widely available at community centers, senior centers, and fitness studios. This ancient practice not only benefits physical health but also reduces stress and enhances mental well-being.

The Benefits of Playing Games for Seniors

One of the key benefits of playing games for seniors is the positive impact on mental health. Games stimulate the brain, improving memory, concentration, and critical thinking skills. Regular game play can help keep the mind sharp and enhance cognitive abilities in seniors.

Mental Benefits of Playing Games

By incorporating games into their daily routines, seniors can reap these mental benefits while having fun and staying mentally sharp.

Social Benefits of Playing Games

Games bring people together.

“Playing games brings people together and bridges the gap between generations.”

Furthermore, games provide a platform for meaningful social connections. They create common ground and shared interests, allowing seniors to connect with others on a deeper level. Through friendly competition or cooperative gameplay, relationships can deepen and flourish. The interactive nature of games encourages communication, teamwork, and collaboration, resulting in stronger bonds between individuals.

Table: Social Benefits of Games for Seniors

The Effects of Play on the Mind

Video games, despite their reputation, can also have cognitive benefits for seniors. Some video games, like match-three puzzle games, exercise pattern recognition and strategy skills. Interactive games, like Snipperclips Plus and Puyo Puyo Tetris, require quick thinking and problem-solving. Playing video games can provide mental stimulation and help maintain brain function.

Table: Examples of Games and Their Cognitive Benefits

In conclusion, game options for senior citizens are plentiful and diverse, catering to various preferences and abilities. Puzzle, board, and card games offer mental challenges and opportunities for social interaction. Video games provide engaging visual and auditory experiences, while word games and outdoor activities promote exercise and mental stimulation. Regular gameplay can enhance seniors’ overall well-being and cognitive abilities, preventing boredom and improving memory and concentration. By choosing games that suit individual interests and capabilities, seniors can enjoy the countless benefits and joy that games bring.

What are some game ideas for senior citizens?

Puzzle, tile, and board games, video games, card games, dice games, word games, outdoor games, and sporty games are all great options for seniors to enjoy.

What are some puzzle games for seniors?

Are there video games suitable for seniors, what are some popular card games for seniors.

Gin Rummy, Bridge, UNO, Old Maid, and Solitaire are all popular card games among seniors. These games offer opportunities for strategy, memory skills, and socializing.

Can you suggest some dice games for seniors?

What word games would be fun for seniors, what are some outdoor games suitable for seniors.

Lawn bowling, bocce ball, croquet, walking groups, and golf outings are low-impact outdoor games that seniors can participate in. These activities provide opportunities for exercise, socialization, and enjoying nature.

What are some sporty games that seniors can play?

What are the benefits of playing games for seniors, how do games bring people together.

Games provide a platform for meaningful social interactions and connections. They create purpose and enjoyment in interactions, helping seniors overcome feelings of isolation and loneliness. The shared experience of playing games fosters relationships and deepens bonds.

What are the effects of play on the mind?

What are some game options for seniors, what is the conclusion on game ideas for senior citizens.

Engaging in games regularly can have positive effects on seniors’ overall well-being and cognitive abilities. Choose games that suit individual preferences and abilities to ensure maximum enjoyment and benefit.

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Cutting-Edge Fitness for Organizations & Health Centers

Exergaming and Aging: How Video Games Can Help Seniors Stay Active

As people age, staying physically active becomes increasingly important. Exergaming for seniors helps them to maintain their health and independence, reduce their risk of chronic diseases, and improve their overall quality of life. However, many older adults face barriers to traditional forms of exercise, such as mobility issues, chronic pain, or lack of motivation. That’s where Exergaming comes in – a fun and engaging way for seniors to stay active while enjoying the benefits of video games.

What are Exergames?

Exergames, also known as active video games or Exergaming, are video games that require physical activity to play. Instead of sitting on the couch and using a handheld controller, exergames use motion-sensing technology, such as cameras or accelerometers, to track players’ movements. This allows users to interact with the game and control the action using their bodies rather than just their fingers.

Exergaming for Seniors:

Exercise games for adults effectively increases physical activity levels and improve fitness in them. Studies have found that Exergaming can improve balance, strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular health. Additionally, Exergaming can be a fun and social activity, which can help seniors stay motivated and engaged.

One of the unique benefits of Exergaming is that it can be tailored to meet the specific needs and abilities of older adults. For example, exergames can be adapted to accommodate mobility issues or joint pain by offering low-impact activities or seated exercises. Additionally, exergames for the elderly can be modified to provide cognitive challenges, benefiting seniors looking to maintain their mental sharpness.

Popular Exergames for Seniors:

Many different types of exergames are popular among older adults. Here are just a few examples:

Wii Sports:

This classic exergame for the Nintendo Wii console includes various sports games, such as tennis, bowling, and golf. Players use motion controls to swing, serve, and putt.

Dance Dance Revolution:

This rhythm game challenges players to follow dance steps displayed on the screen. It can be a great aerobic workout and is available on many gaming consoles and arcade machines.

Silver Sneakers:

This exercise game for adults offers a range of classes, including yoga, Pilates, and cardio dance. Many SilverSneakers classes incorporate exergaming technology to add an interactive element to the workout.

Kinect Adventures:

This game for the Xbox 360 uses the Kinect motion-sensing camera to track players’ movements. It includes various activities, such as rafting and rock climbing that require full-body engagement.

How can Exergaming help seniors stay active?

Seniors can have fun and challenge themselves in new ways while staying active and engaged by playing exergames. Here are some ways that Exergaming can help seniors remain active:

Low-Impact Exercise:

Exergaming provides a low-impact way for seniors to get in a good workout without putting too much stress on their joints. Many exergames are designed to be low-impact, making them an excellent option for seniors with mobility limitations or joint pain.

Customizable Workouts:

Exergames often offer customizable workouts tailored to an individual’s fitness level and abilities. This makes it easy for seniors to start at a comfortable level and gradually increase the intensity and duration of their workouts as they become stronger and more confident.

Fun and Engaging:

Exergaming is a fun and engaging way for seniors to stay active, with many games incorporating elements of competition, strategy, and problem-solving. This can help keep seniors motivated and interested in exercise, which can be challenging for some older adults.

Accessible and Convenient:

Exergaming can be done in the comfort of one’s own home, making it a convenient option for seniors who may have difficulty getting to a gym or fitness center. Many exergames for the elderly are also accessible, with options for larger text or audio instructions for those with visual or hearing impairments.

Variety of Options:

Exergaming offers various options, with games and equipment available for all fitness levels and interests. There’s something for everyone, from virtual reality games to interactive fitness equipment.

Benefits of Exergaming for Seniors:

In addition to the physical and cognitive benefits mentioned above, there are many other advantages to Exergaming for seniors. For example:

Improved Cognitive Function:

Exergaming has been shown to affect cognitive function in older adults positively. Studies have found that Exergaming can improve seniors’ attention, memory, and executive function, which can help maintain their independence and quality of life.

Increased Social Interaction:

Exergaming can provide a fun and engaging way for seniors to socialize and connect with others. Many exergames offer multiplayer modes, a great way to bond with friends and family while getting in a good workout.

Better Mood:

It has been demonstrated that regular exercise helps older persons’ moods and lessens their anxiety and depressive symptoms. Exergaming can provide similar benefits, with the added advantage of being a fun activity that seniors look forward to.

Greater Independence:

As we age, maintaining our independence becomes increasingly essential. Exergaming can help seniors maintain their physical and cognitive abilities, which can help them to stay independent and self-sufficient for longer.

Reduced Risk of Falls:

Falls are a significant concern for older adults, as they can lead to severe injuries and a loss of independence. Exergaming can help improve balance and coordination, reducing the risk of falls and other accidents.

Exergaming is an innovative and effective way for seniors to stay physically active and improve their health and well-being. With the wide variety of exergames for the elderly available today, there is something for everyone, regardless of their fitness level or mobility restrictions. So, consider trying Exergaming, whether you’re a senior looking to stay active or a caregiver looking to encourage physical activity in your loved one. With its many benefits and fun, interactive gameplay, Exergaming for seniors helps them to stay healthy and active as they age.

Exergame Fitness offers various exergaming equipment and solutions for seniors and other populations. Our team of experts can help you find the right exergaming products for your needs and budget and provide guidance on incorporating exergaming into your fitness routine.

Don’t let age or mobility limitations hold you back from enjoying the many benefits of physical activity. With Exergaming, you can stay active, engaged, and healthy at any age. So why not give it a try? Your body and mind will thank you!

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Exergaming, or exercise games, is becoming increasingly popular, exergaming, a combination of games and exercise, is becoming an increasingly popular activity in which both children and adults are engaging.

The Top 20 Easy Video Games for Seniors

Video games frequently portray the stereotypical image of a youngster glued for hours to a brightly lighted screen, moving only his fingers quickly on a controller. Fortunately, gamers of all ages can now engage in social and interactive video gameplay. The finest video games for seniors include activities with a minimal impact on the body and mind. They enable participants to assess the circumstances, develop inventiveness, and practice recall. There are many video games for 50-year-olds, video games for seniors with dementia, and even electronic games for seniors without internet access. So put down that worn-out crossword puzzle book and play some of the top senior video games instead.                                                                                                            

1. Trivia Games

Trivia video games are excellent for keeping senior minds active. Researching answers to trivia questions is a great mental exercise that enhances cognitive abilities.

2. Candy Crush

One of the most played games of all time is Candy Crush, a popular puzzle game for seniors. Its conventional, unambiguous goal continues to become more interesting.

3. World of Warcraft

Seniors maintaining mental stimulation would love this game. Players take on a character and immerse themselves in their life, accomplishing quests and engaging with other players while battling monsters. They find a remarkable escape in the World of Warcraft.

4. Words with Friends

The goal of this multiplayer vocabulary game is similar to Scrabble. Players can swiftly respond with their moves in this real-time game. Additionally, players can quit and rejoin the game at any time, making it non-disruptive.

5. Super Mario 3D World

It is a fun open-world adventure game combined with a linear platform for a more realistic gaming experience. Players complete enjoyable objectives while overcoming obstacles, gathering power-ups, and more.

6. Super Mario Bros

This game develops problem-solving abilities while enhancing your memory. You will travel across vibrant landscapes throughout the entire game to save Princess Peach.

7. Wordscapes

This game gives seniors a great casual brain workout. It mixes the classic jumbled letters with a crossword puzzle. The offered scrambled letters must be used to construct the necessary words.

8. Neuro Racer

It is a specially created video game in which players are challenged to react quickly and precisely in a 3D setting. This cognitive optimisation game with near loops employs adaptive algorithms to test players’ navigation and reaction skills.

9. 1-2 Switch

In this multiplayer game, you play different sports like badminton and tennis while facing your opponent rather than the screen. Since this game is social, you’ll never feel lonely while playing it. As you react to prompts and rumbles from specialised controllers, this game demands that you be active.

You can discover new mysteries while viewing various lovely landscapes with Flower. Players can transport groups of vibrant flower petals throughout a variety of environments.

11. The Professor Layton Games

The Layton game series is ideal for seniors looking for challenging adventures. It has mind-bending cognitive challenges. As you work through various challenges, you can take your time to learn.

12. Plants vs Zombies

In this game, players need to defend their homes from brain-eating zombies. You achieve this by placing various plant species in tactical spots.

13. Treasure Hunt

Seniors who enjoy exploration will adore this game. To collect virtual currency, generally gold, you must recall the specific objects you discovered in the halls of the pirate ship.

14. Wii Sports

This game integrates cerebral engagement with low-impact exercises for the ideal mind-body workout. Tennis, baseball, bowling, golf, and boxing are among the interactive sports games available.

15. Guitar Hero

This game is suggested if you want to rediscover your youth and bring out your inner rock star. It includes a plastic guitar that can be used to play seven different games, in contrast to standard video games with controllers.

16. PGA Tour

PGA Tour is a fantastic simulation game with a sports theme for seniors who enjoy golf. You gain better coordination and problem-solving from playing this video game and getting a taste of what it’s like to play on your ideal golf course.

17. Old Man’s Journey

In this memory-based game, you must guide an older man through the countryside. The intriguing life of the grandfather character is revealed in various ways as you play the game.

18. Flight Simulator Xtreme

Seniors who enjoy fun often turn to this game that enables you to fly top-tier aircraft. You can participate in missions, learn to fly for a living, or take spectacular aerial views of various regions. During gameplay, you practice coordination while honing your muscle reflexes and cognitive skills.

19. Minecraft

Imagine playing a game of online LEGO building, but with access to far more than the box of bricks you used to play with as a kid. You can design and be as imaginative as you like in this game.

If you liked math in college, you will enjoy playing 2048. The game’s goal is to add like numbers while trying to get 2048 or more points.

Playing video games can encourage seniors to be more social, active, and mentally engaged. Despite the belief by many seniors that video games are for kids, numerous studies show the opposite. The cognitive performance, social interaction, and general mental and physical health of seniors can all be improved by video games.

With the Emoha app, you get access to 24/7 emergency support for non-medical and medical emergencies that can be availed from any place in India within seconds. You also get exclusive benefits like travel booking assistance, special discounts on travel and medicine, a helpdesk for daily support, and much more. You can also read exclusively tailored blogs for seniors on several topics, ranging from health to well-being to entertainment. Download the app from the Google Playstore or the iOS App Store.

The Nintendo Wii is arguably the best gaming system for seniors. Are video games healthy for seniors to play? Playing video games improves the emotional health of seniors.

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Unlocking the Benefits of Video Games for Seniors

Recently, the number of seniors playing video games has grown significantly. With more than 10 million Americans aged 50 and older becoming active gamers . This has led to an increase in video games and video platforms designed specifically for seniors.

 Besides providing entertainment, video games have proven to benefit seniors, including cognitive, social, emotional, and physical benefits.

In this blog post, we will explore and give some tips on how beginners can get started. Moreover, we'll discuss the benefits of video games for seniors and why you should try them.

Cognitive Benefits of Video Games for Seniors

Like with all other ages, playing video games has cognitive benefits for seniors. Playing video games has been liked to enhance memory and attention to detail. It helps with remembering names, physical addresses, dates, and phone numbers. They also force players to switch between tasks quickly, increasing mental flexibility and creativity.

 Also, video games, including puzzle games and simulations, improve problem-solving skills, which are helpful in daily situations. 

Physical Benefits of Video Games for Seniors

Video games have several physical benefits, especially the ones that use consoles. Motion-controlled games like Mario Kart Tour, Rush Rally, and Nintendo promote physical activity and exercise. They encourage seniors to engage in movements that enhance motor skills, coordination, balance, and flexibility, contributing to overall physical health.

 Some seniors have reported faster hand and eye coordination and walking speeds after playing video games. 

Social Benefits of Video Games for Seniors

Playing video games allows seniors to interact with more people of all ages worldwide. Multi-player games like Chess enable seniors to play individual games to feel more connected to the rest of the world, thus reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Video games also enable seniors to build and maintain friendships through online gaming platforms and communities, or playing in-person games with friends and family. This contributes to better social functioning among seniors suffering from social anxiety and also contributes to their emotional well-being. 

Whether it's VCR games, puzzles, or simulations, video games help seniors improve their emotional health through many positive effects. They provide stress relief and relaxation by allowing seniors to escape from their daily life, even if only momentarily.

In addition, video games also lower the rate of depression, significantly boosting mood and emotional resilience since they provide a sense of accomplishment as seniors achieve goals and rise to the next level. Most active senior gamers look forward to the following day because it comes with a new challenge for them to accomplish, making their life less monotonous. 

Cognitive Training and Prevention of Age-Related Conditions

According to research conducted in 2017, video games help seniors with cognitive training and reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer's. Regular gaming sessions grow the brain, especially the hippocampus, associated with memory and Alzheimer's and dementia progression. Playing video games helps seniors exercise their brains in a way that learning piano and other physical games can't.

A recent study by the University of California San Francisco showed that seniors who played 3D games showed signs of reverse aging. Additionally, the mental stimulation that results when seniors play video games exercises various cognitive abilities and helps them function and improve over time. 

Tips For Starting Seniors On Video Games

Video games for seniors may seem intimidating to beginners who have never played them before. If you or a loved one is looking into exploring video games, here are a few tips to get you started:

• Pick simple and easy video games to ease you into the gaming experience. Challenging games with complex controls can discourage beginners even before they start.
• Use gaming platforms that are specially for seniors. They differ from the regular platforms because they offer accessibility features, including larger text, easier control, and adjustable audio.
• Pick a video game close to your interests, whether word games, simulations, racing, or puzzle games, for a more engaging experience. 
• Look into  accessible gaming equipment to make their playing time easier.

Tackle cognitive training together

Video games have evolved from a teenage pastime to a more dynamic and inclusive form of entertainment with massive social, physical, emotional, and cognitive benefits for seniors.

To explore the gaming experience, start with simple games and reap the undeniable benefits. If you feel like your loved one's life would be enhanced by playing video games don't hesitate to explore the world of video games for seniors.

Visit Thoughtful Care's website to learn more about our services and discover how we help our senior clients with cognitive training.  Or, give us a call today!

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Living Your Best Life, In The Golden Years And The Digital Age!

Best Video Games for Seniors

#1. wii sports.

Wii Sports combines the best of two things; light exercise and mental activity. This game, available on the Nintendo Wii console , is a mixture of several different games that are perfect for seniors.

Light-impact exercise allows seniors to get active without overdoing it. You use the controller to simulate the actions of bowling, golfing, boxing, tennis, and baseball. 

You create a character that looks like you, which makes it a little more custom and fun. Then, you can play alone versus the computer, or against a friend for some added competition. 

The technology uses a motion-sensor device you place on top of your television that reads your movements and mimics them in the game. 

It’s pretty cool, and even though the Wii is an older console, it’s still a lot of fun to play and perfect for seniors who need to get moving a little but don’t enjoy or can’t do traditional exercise.

Video games like this are fun for seniors because there’s not a high level of difficulty, and it’s not too confusing or overwhelming to work the controls.

They are fairly basic to use, and instructions for each game are simple to understand. There’s even another game you can buy for the Wii called Wii Fit that allows seniors to exercise along with a companion fitness board. 

With Wii Sports, you feel kind of like you’re in the game. This can definitely provide some much-needed smiles for seniors and some laughs. It’s also a good way to get a group of seniors involved, because if you have multiple controllers then several people can play together. 

Games like this can get seniors moving, help sharpen focus and concentration, and most of all, just allow them to have an enjoyable time without anxiety that they’re messing up or doing something incorrect.

It’s a game where you don’t have to have any skills or prior abilities in order to play successfully and enjoy. It’s also a fun social experience for friends to enjoy together.

Get The Wii Sports Bundle (Console + Game)

Get Wii Sports (Game Only)

#2. Super Mario 3D World

Another game seniors may enjoy is Super Mario 3D World for the Wii U console. The Super Mario games have been around for years, and with good reason.

But did you know that Super Mario 3D can actually help stimulate the hippocampus, which is the part of your brain that retains memories?

This can help stave off serious illnesses like Alzheimer’s, and these type of platforming games, especially the three-dimensional ones, are challenging and fun without being overly difficult.

Super Mario 3D can also help seniors improve their coordination, balance, and reaction time. These things tend to deteriorate as we get older, so even playing for a half hour a day can help reduce the signs of dementia and other memory loss illnesses.

When scientists tested seniors, they used an older game; Mario 64 for the Nintendo N64 console. But any Super Mario game that’s newer would also do the trick.

This 3D game allows seniors to use their imaginations and enjoy vivid, immersive gameplay.  This highly-rated, award-winning, and challenging game forces seniors to use critical and clever thinking to get through levels. 

It’s also a multiplayer game, so this gives seniors something fun to do with friends who also enjoy the vivid world of three-dimensional gaming.

You don’t have to be good at this game to get the benefits. You don’t have to be an experienced gamer to play; there’s a reason that Mario games are popular with players of all ages. 

For seniors who like to game on the go, a version of this game called Super Mario 3D Land is also available on the Nintendo 3DS, which is the company’s 3D handheld console (although they also now have the very popular Nintendo Switch)

This would make a perfect gift for seniors who may be confined to bed or a wheelchair, as they’re small and very portable and you can purchase a bag that can carry the console and games as well.

Get Super Mario 3D World (Requires Wii U Console)

Get Super Mario 3D Land (Requires Nintendo 3DS)

#3 World of Warcraft

World of Warcraft is a game that’s popular with seniors who enjoy more in-depth games. It’s an RPG, or role-playing game, that not only follows an interesting storyline but can sharpen aging players’ cognitive abilities. 

Seniors that were tested and played this game showed a marked improvement in things like memory and coordination. 

So what is World of Warcraft? This game can be challenging, and forces seniors to think and act critically in a variety of situations. It’s also a social game since you play with others online.

It’s one of the most popular RPG games on the market. You can also customize the difficulty level so you’re comfortable with it, but it’s not known to be super easy; however, that’s where the benefits lie.

Seniors who enjoy being challenged in a more intense gaming environment will love the storyline, characters, and the interaction with other players. 

It’s a great game for seniors who may be bored and lonely with nobody to game with on a console. There are even gaming guilds made up of solely seniors!

Essentially, you become a character. You complete quests of varying levels of difficulty. This game has a science fiction/fantasy component, so it’s likely you’ll be using your arsenal of weapons to fight monsters and supernatural beings.

The graphics are vivid and bold, and, if it turns out you’re a pretty decent player, you could reap favorable rewards from an hour of gameplay daily, such as improved thinking skills, ability to focus and increased attention span, and spatial skills and concentration.

The only potential downside to World of Warcraft is that if you aren’t good at the game or don’t enjoy it, you’re not likely to reap many, if any, benefits. So you may want to give it a try before investing in it.

World of Warcraft, manufactured by Blizzard Entertainment, is available for Windows PC and Mac operating systems.

Get World of Warcraft *

*Note. There are many versions of the game. The best choice for most will be to start with World of Warcraft Classic , which gets you access to the main game. This is a subscription model which currently costs $15/month.

#4. Animal Crossing: New Leaf

Seniors are loving Animal Crossing. This type of game is called a simulation game.

What’s a simulation game? It’s a simulation of a situation, and in this case, the game’s storyline is about a town full of animals, and you, as the player, are a villager. 

As you play, you act as the mayor of the town, and you do daily activities that earn you currency, called ‘bells,’ you can use to buy things.

It’s a real-time game, so what’s happening is happening as it would in reality. It’s easy to get addicted to doing everyday activities alongside the cutest animals.

There aren’t really any difficult things about this game, so it’s just a fun way to game for seniors who enjoy the activities. 

There are also a lot of customization options which let seniors flex their creativity. You can select how your character looks, your home, and many other aspects of gameplay, and purchase new items like furniture with the currency you get. 

You can take your game online and play with friends who also have the game. You can also use a variety of features to get more out of your experience, such as taking and saving photos, putting on a swimsuit and swimming, and visiting friends.

Sort of like an animal version of The Sims, Animal Crossing: New Leaf is the fourth installment in this very popular series. 

This particular title is available on the Nintendo 3DS handheld console, but a newer version will be available at some point for the Nintendo Switch platform .

The benefits of a game like Animal Crossing for seniors include social interaction, creativity, and critical thinking skills; you do have to complete simple challenges that could help sharpen coordination, such as fishing and catching butterflies. 

The portability of the handheld 3DS console is also appealing for seniors.

Get Animal Crossing: New Leaf (Requires Nintendo 3DS Console)

Get Animal Crossing: New Horizons (Requires Nintendo Switch Console)

#5. Minecraft

There are a few aspects of the popular building game Minecraft that appeal to seniors. One is the fact that Minecraft is whatever you make it.

It’s called a ‘sandbox’ game, which means it’s an open world you can design whatever you want in. It is truly a chance to be as creative as you like, and that can be a lot of fun.

Some enjoy it because it’s soothing, rhythmic, and relaxing. The music and sounds of the game are pleasing. The square world is appealing, simple yet complex at the same time.

There are two components to Minecraft; one is the open world mode, where you can build what you like. The other is the story mode, where you can play through a story and come up against villains and fight them.

There is a strategy involved, which is where critical thinking skills come in. If you want to keep yourself alive, you must eat and sleep. You have to find ways to procure weapons. 

It’s not typically a difficult game, but you may need a bit to pick up on it and get the hang of it. Most kids are great at it, so recruit your grandson or a neighbor to give you the basics! 

Once you learn, you too may be addicted to this block-building wonderland. Again, since this is a three-dimensional game, seniors can see the health benefits similar to the Mario game above.

These benefits of gaming for even an hour a day include improved memory skills as well as increased hand-eye coordination and reaction time. 

Knowing how to play Minecraft can also bridge the gap between seniors and young people; giving older people something in common with the kids in their lives. 

Minecraft is available for the PlayStation, Xbox, Wii U, Switch, and PC. 

Get Minecraf

Why Should Seniors Play Video Games?

There are numerous gains that seniors can get from playing video games. Not only are there health benefits, but video games can be boredom busters, too.

For seniors who are lonely, playing with an online community can foster real-life friendships and combat loneliness and depression.

More importantly, some video games can have potentially life-altering benefits, such as keeping illnesses like dementia and Alzheimer’s at bay.

It’s long been said that crossword puzzles, word games, and memory games are good for seniors to keep their minds sharp.

So why shouldn’t video games have the same, and more benefits ?

Then, there are games like Wii Sports that encourage seniors to get up and be active. Playing a video game doesn’t have to mean sitting still. Even games like Rock Band can get seniors up and moving and having a blast!

Video games encourage interaction, and many multiplayer games allow. two or more seniors to play together. This isn’t your average game of cards or bingo.

Video games are immersive, challenging, fun, and unique for seniors, and can throw situations at them they’ve never seen or been in.

Some seniors even enjoy combat games like Assassin’s Creed, or story-focused games like The Last of Us that are rendered so beautifully they look like a movie.

Just because seniors are aging doesn’t mean they don’t want to stay on-trend and keep up with all of the amazing tech we have at our fingertips.

Seniors can also game online with family and friends, giving them an interactive experience with the people they love, even if loved ones aren’t nearby.

Some seniors are even streaming their gaming experiences on channels like YouTube and Twitch, beating boredom and depression by gaining legions of worldwide followers and fans.

Gaming has a multitude of benefits for over-50s, and if you’re not a gamer yet, maybe you should be!

Most baby boomers grew up gaming, and likely never stopped, but if you didn’t, it’s never too late to learn something new.

Options to Consider When Buying Video Games for Seniors

For some seniors, small controls can be hard to operate. So maybe a handheld console isn’t right, but a regular console with larger buttons would be easier.

Or, maybe the opposite is true and a handheld would be perfect for a bed bound senior.

Alternately, a senior who already knows how to use a computer and enjoys can easily learn how to game on a computer, so you may want to consider what platform would be the easiest to use.

Where do your interests lie? Do you like side-scrolling games? Would you like an immersive RPG with a storyline?

Or does a simulation game sound more fun? Do you like fantasy, action, building?

A sandbox game or a game with rules? A harder game or something simple? Think about what type of game would be interesting for you.

There are no shortage of options. There are even brain buster games, connect three games, and wordplay games which are fun for seniors, too.

Video games don’t have to be action games.

Socialization

Do you have people to play with or are you mostly alone? Since some games are more fun with others, if you are alone most of the time you may want a game you can play with an online community or a game you can go solo on.

Let’s face it, if you’ve been gaming since the Commodore was a thing, you’re probably pretty good at games. This means you could likely tackle a more difficult game.

However, if you’ve never picked up a controller before, you may want to start with something a bit more entry-level.

Some games and newer game systems may be out of your budget. But before you decide you can’t afford a game or console, check your local used game store.

Many people sell consoles and you can get one in great condition for a reasonable price, and get preowned games as well.

Newer games, especially when they first come out, can be on the speedy side. And, some games require you to buy additional controllers or add-ons, so keep that in mind when you shop.

Which Video Game Should You Buy?

Want to get immersed in a world of monsters, challenging duels, and interesting storylines? Try World of Warcraft.

Have a hard time keeping to guidelines and rules and want to game your own way? You will love building in Minecraft.

Looking for a simple game that’s cute, fun, and requires few skills? Animal Crossing is a good fit for you.

You’re not as active as you used to be, and you could stand a bit of light exercise. Wii U Sports is a really fun way to move around.

Worried about your memory slipping? Invest in a three-dimensional game like Mario.

Love the idea of your own handheld console? There are many games for the popular 3DS, including Mario and Animal Crossing.

Intimidated by complicated directions and instructions? Mario is fun and not too hard.

Frequently Asked Questions About Video Games

How do I know if I will like a game?

Since games are costly, it’s typically best to try them before you buy them. Check with your grandkids, friends, or even local game shop to see if you can take a game for a test drive before you commit.

I have a smartphone. Can I game on that?

Yes! If you don’t have the funds to invest in a console, there are many games you can download on your smartphone to keep your skills sharp!

Some popular ones include Words With Friends, Scrabble, Candy Crush, Bejeweled, and Sudoku.

I’m scared I won’t be able to learn how to play. What should I do?

Most libraries have teen programs that include video games. There are likely some teens that would love to help you learn how to play!

You could also spend some great bonding time with your grandkids asking them to teach you how to game!

How long do I have to play each day to get benefits?

You could play as little as half an hour each day, but an hour is a perfect amount of time to get the benefits of gaming.

Do I have to use my personal information to game online?

It’s not safe to use your private information online. To stay safe online, have a friend or family member help you set up your account.

Choose a username that doesn’t identify you, and don’t use photos of yourself or include your real name or location.

If other users chat with you, do so at your own discretion, and never reveal private details to anyone online. Stay safe when you game!

Also, don’t ever put financial information online. If you need to purchase in-game apps or anything like that, set up a PayPal account, or purchase gift cards like PlayStation store cards that you don’t need to use your credit card information to use.

Reader Interactions

December 23, 2020 at 11:07 am

awesome article, is there video games rating and guide for seniors? (some thing similar with ESRB ratings provide information about what’s in a game or app so parents and consumers can make informed choices about which games are right for their family. Ratings have 3 parts: Rating Categories, Content Descriptors, and Interactive Elements.)

February 16, 2021 at 3:50 am

Interesting article. I haven’t played most of the games listed here, I do however play WoW or World of Warcraft. I’ll be 63 so I qualify as a senior citizen although don’t feel like it 🙂 There’s a problem with some of the assessment of the game and if someone is going to write on this topic they should at the very least either play the game to try it or talk to someone with some knowledge. If you are just starting out with WoW that last thing you want to do is start with Classic. This is the original game from 15yrs ago and it is HARD! It was difficult when it came out and the Classic version kept that difficulty. Over the years the game while still challenging is much easier than it was when it started. For a new player who has never played this type of game Classic would be frustrating. It should also be noted that the game is free to play up to lvl 20 I believe (we recently had a level squish so that might have changed.) On a trial account you are limited in a few ways but it gives you plenty of time (as there is no time limit) to try the game and to also try different factions and characters. See you all in Azeroth!

February 18, 2021 at 2:32 am

Totally agree! Classic is not, IMHO, the way for a senior like me to start. At 64, and having 12 years experience, I tried Classic again last year. Nope’d right back into Battle for Azeroth. The “free to level 20” is a great way to see if it’s going to be fun or not. It does keep you thinking (!!!) but also can be a nice afternoon gathering flowers or fishing.

July 18, 2021 at 4:38 am

OMG you guys have no idea WHO YOU ARE TALKING ABOUT. Pong came out in 1972 and if you were 20 years old playing PONG, probably in a BAR, you are 70 now. SPACE INVADERS, one of my favorites in 1978. The first PINBALL GAME came out in 1930, almost 100 years ago. FOCUS ON HOW MUCH SENIORS LOVE THIS, we go to a CASINOS and now play SLOTS that are just like VIDEO GAMES that sometimes give us back money, lots of money. My Favorite slot, Space Invaders from the Planet Moolah. Don’t laugh, I have won thousands on it.

We are a generation of pot smoking, LDS taking, Hippy clothes wearing, Make Love Not War generation. We are not 90 year olds with one foot in the grave. We are not looking to EXERCISE or to BETTER OUR BRAINS. WE want to have fun like any other gamer.

What is missing is more videos for WOMEN…GROWN women, not little girls. One example is RESCUE TEAM series where people are SAVED instead of KILLED. Then there is the FABULOUS and DELICIOUS series. But outside of that, not much but cooking and casino games (who wants to play a casino game when you cant win real money…).

STOP THINKING OF SENIOR IS NURSING HOMES. There are 76 million Baby Boomers who played Pinball, Pong, Space Invaders and everything else that came out in the 70’s and 80’s.

WE NEED MORE games for GROWN WOMAN. I searched and searched and everything seems to be for little girls. Adult games, woman’s game and I will buy it. Another great one was Tiny Bang Story and there was never a 2nd of that.

We are not your grayed haired seniors of old, we want FUN and we want ACTION and we want ADVENTURE. Can you create that without KILLING and without Vikings and GODS of Olympics and other silly themes.

October 25, 2021 at 2:18 pm

Spot on Sister!

April 6, 2022 at 12:41 am

December 31, 2022 at 5:21 am

Well, time has come when we, the rebel generation, became the old folks. No one ever could beat me playing pong, then I moved to Intellivision and mastered Baseball and Space Invaders. Oops, I jumped over Mario’s but became obsessed with EMPIRE, one of the first PC games. Got my first Sub sim, then Doom and the first Flight Simulator. Hurra for Mechwarrior and the rest is history. Evolving from low res to high res and after “wasting” quite a lot of money with envidia graphic cards here I am with my RTX managing 1300 trains in Railway Empire, Sinking Bismark at World of Warships and calculating manually torpedoes in the latest UBOAT edition.

August 23, 2021 at 5:29 am

Thanks for the good article. Since this article is so compelling, I’d like to share this wonderful article to seniors in our country. Can I translate this article into our own language (Korean) and share it on a online platform that TGSI (The Game-n-Science Institute, nonprofit institute established under the Game Culture Foundation in Korea) run? Or is there any point of contact that I can inquire about permission for translation? Please answer me with the email address below. Thank you.

December 26, 2021 at 11:39 am

I was looking forward to getting a Wii Fit in 2022 only to find that Nintendo will no longer support it. I just want to use the fitness games. It can not mean that they stop working, does it? Can you explain to me what that means?

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Brightwater Blog

The Surprising Benefits of Video Games For Seniors

You might not think that the terms “video games” and “older adults” go together, but recent studies have shown that, surprisingly, a large number of seniors have taken to playing video games as a pastime over the last few years. It’s no wonder – modern video game systems like the Wii are designed to be more accessible to people of all ages, from children to older adults. Additionally, video games can have a wide variety of positive impacts on the mental and physical health of seniors. Read on for a list of gaming benefits from Brightwater Senior Living .

A New Workout Routine

If you’re getting sick of the monotony of water aerobics, yoga, and walking, why not give a fitness-based video game a try? Games like Ring Fit Adventure for the Nintendo Switch and Wii Fit for the Nintendo Wii are designed to get gamers to exercise in order to progress in the game. The games offer a range of different exercise options, from hula hooping to jogging in place. They’re great options for getting your daily workout in, and you can adjust the intensity to fit your level of fitness.

Better Coordination & Balance

In addition to providing a healthy workout, games like Wii FIt can also help improve your balance through the use of easy-to-do, at-home yoga exercises. Studies show that these video game-based exercises help to improve older adults’ coordination. In addition to Wii Fit, games that feature this combination include Wii Sports and 1-2 Switch for the Nintendo Switch.

Improved Mental Health

While the past two points alone – improved balance and more fun workouts – can already lead to a better outlook on life, playing video games can also provide a sense of routine and restore diminished executive function for seniors. One study showed that feelings of depression were lower in seniors who played video games over seniors who didn’t, and another noted that working memory improved in gaming seniors.

Increased Social Opportunities

Many games such as Wii Play, Wii Sports, and 1-2 Switch are designed to be played with two or more participants. This provides an excellent way for older adults to bond with younger family members, caretakers, or friends. Some senior living communities even have game systems set up in common areas or provide game nights for community members.

We hope this article was able to shed some light on the not-so-new connection between older adults and video games. If you’d like more info on surprisingly fun activities to engage in as a senior, check out Brightwater’s blog .

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Technology for Seniors: The Benefits of Video Games and Virtual Reality

When you think of a "gamer," you probably don't think of a 65-year-old woman spending her afternoon on Nintendo. But think again— an estimated 15% of people who play video games are over the age of 55 . What’s more, it turns out that some of those older "gamers" are reaping very significant health benefits as a result.

Here are some of the social, cognitive and physical benefits that video games and virtual reality (VR) have to offer seniors.

BETTER EMOTIONAL WELL-BEING

Whether it's going for a walk, meeting friends for lunch, or seeing a movie, doing anything you enjoy improves emotional health. So it's no surprise many seniors who enjoy playing video games find themselves in better moods.

A study of 140 seniors over 63 years old concluded that both regular and occasional video gamers reported greater well-being, social functioning and health than non-gamers. In addition, they reported significantly lower rates of depression among people who play video games than those who don't.

IMPROVED BALANCE

Video games can provide physical benefits, too, especially to seniors. Certain games that require physical interaction, like the VR game Beat Saber, Wii Sports, and other similar titles, can help seniors improve balance, coordination, and reflexes due to the quick decision-making and action required to play. Some seniors have even reported faster walking speeds as a result of playing video games.

It may not be obvious at first, but improving cognitive skills can translate into improved balance and gait. And while fitness video games on the Nintendo Wii and the newer Nintendo Switch have revolutionized exercise for seniors, VR is already leaving its mark on physical therapy. New programs as simple as walking through a landscape projected on a TV screen have shown some remarkable results.

ENHANCED COGNITIVE ABILITY

Video games have the potential to support improvement not only emotionally and physically, but cognitively, as well. In fact, a University of California San Francisco study showed significant improvement in cognitive ability , effectively reversing signs of aging in seniors who played 3D video games.

Playing video games exercises a gamer’s memory, especially short-term memory. Playing even occasionally can help seniors remember things like names, addresses, phone numbers, dates and times better than they do without video game stimulation. They also force players to switch quickly between different tasks, which can lead to increased mental flexibility and multi-tasking ability for seniors.

Furthermore, VR technologies have been used in cognitive and physical assessments and therapeutic interventions for individuals with dementia. These technologies have been shown to improve mobility, prevent falls and increase cognitive abilities in those with dementia and those who are at risk of developing dementia.

REDUCED RISK OF ALZHEIMER'S

With an estimated 6 million seniors living with Alzheimer's in the U.S. alone, treatment methods are heavily scrutinized and highly valued. Amazingly, research from 2017 has even demonstrated a link between playing video games and a reduced risk of Alzheimer’s. 

The study looked at connections between gaming and tissue growth in different areas of the brain, especially the hippocampus, an area associated with memory and Alzheimer’s progression. The study tasked three groups of seniors aged 55 to 75 with different activities: group 1 played the video game Super Mario 64 regularly, group 2 took digital piano courses, and group 3 undertook no new activity for the duration of the study.

The results saw significantly increased hippocampus gray matter in the gaming group compared to the piano and inactive groups. That's right, playing video games helped seniors exercise their brains and decrease their Alzheimer's risk factors in a way that even learning to play piano could not.

ALL THE BENEFITS—PLUS LOTS OF FUN

Residents at The Village Senior Residence in Missoula, MT, an assisted living community, often play Wii Bowling. It’s encouraged for everyone to cheer for one another, making the game less competitive and just good fun.

The Village Senior Residence isn't the only place where seniors game. Katella Senior Living Community in Los Alamitos, CA, and The Inn on Westport in Sioux Falls, SD, enjoy video games, too.

Of all the Wii Sports games, it seems that residents prefer Wii bowling. Many residents were already playing this game before moving into a community!

Video games are just one of many stimulating activities that residents enjoy at The Goodman Group’s managed communities across the country. We make it our mission to find new ways to engage and delight residents every day while providing them physical , mental and emotional benefits .

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Ethan Johnson (left) and Jacob Bonang hold some of the video games they purchased for the Paris Public Library.

PARIS — Jacob Bonang and Ethan Johnson, two graduating Oxford Hills Comprehensive High School seniors, chose to help the Paris Public Library for their senior project this winter and spring, by launching a video game collection at the library. They sorted through hundreds of duplicate DVDs donated to the library over the years to find those most valuable to Bull Moose, trading them for video games at the Lewiston store.

They got several X-box, Play Station, and Switch games for the library to loan out to patrons. They also prepared the games for circulation and cataloged them into the collection. At this time, since the collection is relatively small, the game loan period is one week, with a limit of one game per family.

To raise more money to invest in games, and to help the collection grow, the Paris Public Library is holding a DVD and CD sale on Saturday, May 25, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Deering Memorial Community Center, located at 39 Main Street in Paris (across Church Street from the Paris Public Library).

For more information about the project, games, or sale, please call the Paris Public Library at 743-6994 or email [email protected].

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Video games show potential in improving key aspects of memory in older adults

Clinical Research Cognitive Health Decision Making

Being exposed to an environment filled with novel stimuli can benefit cognition, including memory. Studies have shown that rodents placed in enriched environments, compared to sparse environments, experience increased generation of nerve cells in brain regions that are critical for memory encoding and retrieval. Humans may also experience similar neurological benefits from novel environments. However, this exposure can be hindered by those who remain indoors, potentially due to viral pandemics or mobility impairments.

While memory performance was equivalent across groups prior to engaging in video game play, two weeks of Angry Birds™ or Super Mario™ gameplay resulted in improved recognition memory. Memory continued to improve after an additional two weeks for the Super Mario™ players compared to the Solitaire players and these improvements persisted after daily gameplay ended. No additional memory improvements were found in Angry Birds™ players.

These findings suggest that both novel experiences and exposure to rich three-dimensional environments may work together to improve cognition. Interventions for improving cognition are particularly important for older individuals because they are at risk for cognitive decline. In addition, video game interventions may be beneficial for individuals at any age and particularly for those who are homebound, thus unable to experience a wide variety of new environments. Although video games may not be an ideal substitute for real-world experiences, they may serve as an additional (and entertaining) method to improve cognitive health.

This research was supported in part by NIA grants R01AG034613, R21AG056145, and P50AG016573.

Reference : Clemenson G, et al. Enriching hippocampal memory function in older adults through video games . Behavioural Brain Research . 2020;390:112667. doi: 10.1016/j.bbr.2020.112667.

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The 15 Healthiest Video Games for Any Adult

Let’s just dispel any thoughts you might have about the typical gamer. You may be thinking about an adolescent boy, cloistered away in his parents’ basement and tapping away at a keyboard or moving a joystick for hours on end. But the truth is a “gamer” can be just about anyone. First, here are some fast facts from a study by the Entertainment Software Association about people who play video games: 1

• The average gamer is age 35.
• 41% of gamers are female.
• 44% of gamers are age 36 or older.
• Over one-quarter of gamers are over age 50.
• The average gamer has been playing for about 13 years.
• Nearly two-thirds of US households include someone who regularly plays video games.
• More than half of frequent gamers regularly play with friends, family, or partners.

Clearly, gamers are not a monolith. They come in all flavors and types, which means that if you’re new to gaming, there’s no need to think playing video games strange or uncommon. Plus, gaming may even provide some health benefits, which we cover at the end of this page.

How we chose the games

No matter what gaming level you’ve achieved, we wanted to give you some recommendations for games you could jump into, start playing, and even earn some health bonuses through.

For each game, we used our best judgment to decide how highly they rated on a few factors. These factors include physical activity, cognitive challenge (or how hard the game is to play), and social interaction.

We also included each game’s score from Metacritic , a site that uses aggregate reviews from multiple sources to rate how good the game is. Finally, we included the game’s cost, which is generally based on its current price on Amazon or an app store like Apple’s iOS App Store.

Brush aside any notions of worry—gaming isn’t as scary as you think.  Pick up a controller and start playing!

Casual level: Best games for beginners

If you’ve just started to play or you’ve yet to push start on gaming, we’ve got you covered. There are plenty of ways you can get a taste for gaming across a variety of game types, systems, and skills.

Here are our picks for top beginners’ level games, each with a few added health and/or cognitive benefits. By the way, just because a game is in this category, it doesn’t mean only a new player will enjoy it. It just means that the game is probably a bit easier to purchase and learn how to play. Each game on this list costs less than $40.

Also, if you don’t already have the system to support a game, check the bottom of this page to see how to get set up and how much it’ll cost you.

Wii Sports Resort

Source: Nintendo

• Systems: Nintendo Wii
• Physical activity: High
• Cognitive challenge: Easy
• Social interaction: High
• Metacritic score: 80/100
• Cost: $37.89

A great start to gaming is Wii Sports Resort on the Nintendo Wii. It combines charming, physically active play into a game centered around beach resort challenges. Use the motion-tracking sensors in the Wii remote controller to engage in activities like archery, basketball, and jet skiing. Challenge yourself or play on-screen with others in the same room for high social interaction.

Disney Fantasia: Music Evolved

Source: Microsoft

• System: Xbox One, Xbox 360 (Kinect required)
• Cognitive challenge: Moderate
• Metacritic score: 77/100
• Cost: $39.99 (Kinect not included)

As long as you’ve got a Kinect, the device that adds motion-sensing capabilities to your Xbox system, you should pick up Disney Fantasia: Music Evolved . Created by Disney and inspired by the fantastical and musical world of Fantasia , this game lets you play with just your own body—no controllers necessary. Time your gestures with modern and classical music to complete levels and bring this magical experience to life.

Snipperclips—Cut It Out, Together!

Source: Amazon

• System: Nintendo Switch
• Physical activity: Low
• Metacritic score: 81/100
• Cost: $19.99

Snipperclips—Cut It Out, Together! on the Nintendo Switch continues the company’s tradition of being a platform for innovative and colorful games. And like many Nintendo games, you can play Snipperclips with friends and family in your home. This game, which can accommodate up to four players, asks you to snip and clip your way to solving construction paper-like puzzles. Play with others and you’ll find yourself crying out “snip me!” with abandon.

Rayman Legends

• System: PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 3, Xbox One, Xbox 360, Wii U, PlayStation Vita, Nintendo Switch
• Metacritic score: 91/100
• Cost: $17.99

Available on nearly every modern system available, Rayman Legends is a side-scrolling adventure game packed full of whimsical characters and innovative challenges. This highly reviewed game lets you play alone or with others online.

Super Mario Run

Source: Google Play

• System: Apple iOS
• Social interaction: Moderate
• Metacritic score: 76/100
• Cost: Free to play (full game for $9.99)

A perennial favorite character, Mario hopped onto Apple iOS devices in 2016. If you played the original Super Mario Bros. that debuted in the 80’s, the playstyle of Super Mario Run will feel familiar but updated. The controls are simple, but beating levels is challenging as you jump over enemies, collect coins and stars, and save Princess Peach from the nefarious Bowser.

Intermediate level: Best games for experienced gamers

If you feel pretty comfortable with video games and systems and are willing to pay a little bit more for the experience, you’ve reached the intermediate level. At this point, the games can be a bit more challenging in terms of controls, game difficulty, and interaction with other players. Jump below for our top picks for experienced gamers.

• System: Apple iOS, Google Play
• Metacritic score: 68/100
• Cost: Free with paid extras

If you’ve seen people, in groups or alone, wandering around your neighborhood, looking around, and flicking at their smartphones, you’ve probably seen someone playing Pokémon GO . This worldwide phenomenon takes the classic Pokémon game series and brings it to your pocket—no console required. Although the controls and playstyle take some getting used to, once you’ve started playing this monster-collecting and battling game, you’re bound to catch the “Gotta Catch ‘Em All!” bug.

Brain Age: Concentration Training

• System: Nintendo 3DS
• Cognitive challenge: High
• Metacritic score: 71/100
• Cost: $29.99

Exclusive to Nintendo’s 3DS mobile gaming platform, Brain Age: Concentration Training is a game all about flexing the muscles of your mind. The game starts with a few challenges to calculate the “age” of your brain and then it serves up countless puzzles, math problems, and more. As you progress, you may start to feel less distracted, more concentrated, and happily entertained.

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

• Systems: Wii U, Nintendo Switch
• Social interaction: Low
• Metacritic score: 97/100
• Cost: $59.99

Ask long-term gamers which video games they hold most dear and you’re likely to hear about Zelda. These Nintendo-produced action and puzzle games have been a mainstay of the company’s history, and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild serves up a breathtaking entry into the series. Controlling the elfish Link, you’ll explore the expansive and surprisingly lifelike world of Hyrule while clashing swords with monsters, solving ancient underground puzzles, and even cooking up status-boosting recipes.

Stardew Valley

• System: PC, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch
• Metacritic score: 88/100 Cost: $29.98

Stardew Valley isn’t just a farm simulator—it’s an enchanting, exciting experience. Your character is a farmer, and you’re tasked with starting your own farm in the retro-styled setting of Stardew Valley. Eventually, you’ll learn that venturing outside of your farm leads to more fun, interaction with other characters, and even battles with nasty creatures.

Animal Crossing: New Leaf

• Metacritic score: 88/100

Another village-building simulation game like Stardew Valley , Animal Crossing: New Leaf lets you create and serve as mayor to an entire town populated by wisecracking beast-like beings. After setting foot in your new town, you’ll have to complete challenges like fishing, butterfly catching, and more to earn bells— Animal Crossing ’s currency—to design the village of your dreams.

Expert level: Best games for advanced gamers

You’ve mastered the systems, you know the controls, and you don’t shy away from calling yourself a gamer. If you’re fully comfortable with gaming, you’ve reached the expert level. There's no need to convince you of the merits of video games, so let’s talk about some of the best next-level games you can play right now.

• Systems: Xbox One (Kinect required)
• Metacritic score: 84/100
• Cost: $14.99

FRU on the Xbox One is our first choice for seasoned players because of its innovative mix of challenging puzzle play and physical motion, courtesy of the Kinect device. Using your body’s silhouette, you help the main character traverse platform-based levels. You’ll have to move side to side, raise your arms, and wiggle around to complete masterfully designed challenges.

World of Warcraft

• Systems: PC
• Metacritic score: 93/100
• Cost: $19.99 + $14.00/mo. subscription fee with paid extras

If you’ve heard anything about gaming, you’ve probably heard about World of Warcraft . This massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG for short) for the PC is played by millions of people worldwide. You can jump into World of Warcraft relatively easily, but progressing to higher ranks will take dedication, skill, and time. If battling monsters with swords or magic is your thing, this long-lasting game should fit you nicely.

Hearthstone

• Systems: PC, Apple iOS, Android

If you took World of Warcraft and turned it into a card game, you’d have Hearthstone . In fact, that’s exactly what this mobile and PC game is: a card game based on the characters and lore of World of Warcraft . It’s free to download and simple to start, but mastering the game is an expert-level challenge. Battle by yourself or against other players by picking out a powerful deck and then carefully playing your hand to defeat your opponent.

Uncharted 4

• Systems: PlayStation 4
• Cost: $29.00 (with Amazon Prime)

The Uncharted series has been around since 2007, and the fourth installment has received rave reviews for its action-packed content and beautifully rendered graphics. At the core of Uncharted 4 is a single-player story where you send Nathan Drake on a treasure-hunting adventure through a huge, open world with challenging combat situations.

Sid Meier's Civilization VI

If you’ve ever dreamt of lording over an entire civilization, this game gives you the chance. Sid Meier’s Civilization VI is a game about building a city and leading its inhabitants through the millennia. Whether you achieve world dominance through diplomacy, warfare, or technology is your choice. It’s a complex game with near-limitless functionality that will keep you hungry for more power.

How to get the systems

Ready to dive into one of the games we recommend? You’re going to need the system to play it on. Depending on your budget and the games you want to play, here’s how to find and purchase each of the systems we’ve mentioned.

Nintendo gaming systems

Nintendo’s Wii gaming system was a global phenomenon when it launched in 2006. With its innovative motion controls, low cost, and focus on active and social games, the Wii quickly became one of the best-selling video game systems of all time. 2 The Wii is still available from many retailers, including Walmart, for around $100.

The Wii U built on the motion controls of the original system and added new functionality: a touch screen. The Wii U’s game pad lets you use your finger or a stylus to play games on or off your television. It even plays games from the original Wii system. Wii U consoles sell for about $275.

Nintendo’s mobile console, the 3DS, is a popular system that features dual screens and touch-based gameplay. Entry models start at around $150.

Finally, the Nintendo Switch is the Mario-makers’ latest console release. The Switch brings Nintendo games to a system that easily transitions from television console to mobile platform. Because it’s brand new to the market, the Switch is the most expensive Nintendo system available and retails for about $390.

• Get the Nintendo Wii.
• Get the Nintendo Wii U.
• Get the Nintendo 3DS.
• Get the Nintendo Switch.

Microsoft Xbox and Kinect

Microsoft got into the console gaming arena with the original Xbox in 2001. Today, you can easily purchase an Xbox 360 for about $200 or the newer Xbox One system that starts at about $260 with a bundled game. For the best graphic quality, the Xbox One S will set you back at least $300. And for the full body motion-sensing function for games like FRU , you’ll need to purchase an additional device: the $83 Kinect Sensor .

• Get the Microsoft Xbox 360.
• Get the Microsoft Xbox One.
• Get the Microsoft Xbox One S.

Sony PlayStation

PlayStation is another major mainstay of video game consoles, with Sony’s PlayStation 4 Pro as its newest generation. While the Pro will likely cost you almost $400, you can still purchase earlier versions of PlayStation systems for cheaper. The PlayStation 3 is available on Amazon for about $242, while the PlayStation 4 (non “Pro” edition) is $250.

• Get the PlayStation 3.
• Get the PlayStation 4.
• Get the PlayStation 4 Pro.

Mobile gaming

Gone are the days when you needed to purchase a chunky console to be a gamer. Today, anyone with a smartphone or mobile device can download and play games—anywhere, anytime. Depending on your device, you can download games in a variety of genres from the Apple iOS App Store or Android Google Play store.

Desktop computers

Personal computer, or PC, gaming has continued to be a common way for people of all ages to scratch their gaming itches. Many popular games, like World of Warcraft , are only available on desktop. But you have to make sure your system can handle the graphics and other system requirements that a game demands.

How gaming can be good for your health

Aside from being fun and a great way to pass the time, gaming may actually benefit your mind and body. In fact, studies have shown that video games can improve your focus, memory, and vision, among other things. 3

Social interaction is another component of many games. Whether you’re playing with your kids or friends in the same room or battling with players in other parts of the globe, gaming can be just as social as many other activities. Committing to multiplayer games over the long term could even help you feel a sense of community and identity. 4  Video games can be a great option during this time of quarantine, particularly if you are a senior living in isolation due to the pandemic. 

In addition, according to several studies, certain video games may be used for rehabilitative and therapeutic purposes, including pain management, physical therapy , and activity promotion for people with certain mental illnesses. 5,6

Our final word: Start gaming to score big at any age

No matter your age, you can be a gamer. And gaming can mean playing puzzle games with your kids or grandkids or grinding out tough battles online. Whichever game or system you choose, you can play with the knowledge that all the fun you’re having isn’t just a waste of time—it could actually be contributing to a better and healthier life.

Though playing video games could come with health benefits, you may also be in need of other services or therapies. Learn more about what is covered by Medicare. 

• Does Medicare cover vision ? 
• Does Medicare cover physical therapy ? 
• Does Medicare cover hearing aids ? 
• Does Medicare cover home health care ? 

1 Entertainment Software Association, “ Essential Facts about the Computer and Video Game Industry ” 2 VGChartz, “ Platform Totals ” 3 Psychology Today, “ Cognitive Benefits of Playing Video Games ” 4 Science Daily, “ How Does Online Gaming Affect Social Interactions? ” 5 National Institutes of Health, “ Video Games and Health ” 6 National Institutes of Health, “ Videogames to Promote Physical Activity in Older Adults with Schizophrenia ”

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Video Games for Seniors

In recent years, the digital landscape has witnessed an unexpected yet delightful trend: seniors diving deep into the world of video games. Gone are the days when video gaming was considered a pastime solely for the younger generation. Today, elderly gamers are not just playing; they are thriving, proving that when it comes to gaming, age is merely a number.

The rising trend of seniors engaging in video gaming isn’t just about entertainment. It combines cognitive stimulation, physical activity, and social interaction. Imagine a grandmother challenging her grandson to a game on her handheld electronic game or a group of seniors competing in a card game online. These scenarios are not fictional; they happen in living rooms, senior centers, and online platforms worldwide.

But what’s driving this surge in video games for seniors? Several factors come into play. For starters, computers now offer features tailored to older adults’ needs, making gaming more accessible. Large fonts, touchpad controls, and user-friendly interfaces ensure that even those not tech-savvy can navigate computer games for seniors with ease.

Moreover, the gaming industry has expanded its horizons, offering a plethora of video games for adults that cater to varied interests and skill levels. From strategy games that challenge the mind to adventure games that tell compelling stories, there’s something for everyone. And it’s not just about handheld poker games or solitaire. The gaming world for seniors is as diverse as it is vast.

Another significant factor is the therapeutic benefits associated with gaming. Video games for elderly individuals have shown to improve cognitive functions, enhance hand-eye coordination, and even serve as a form of physical exercise. Games that require movement, like dance or movement games, double up as exercise games for seniors, making fitness fun.

The social aspect of gaming is also worth noting. In a world where loneliness can often plague the elderly, multiplayer games offer a respite. They provide seniors with a platform to connect, communicate, and compete. Online communities dedicated to elderly gamers are burgeoning, fostering friendships and offering a sense of belonging.

Video games for older adults are not just about fun; they are about holistic well-being. They are about challenging age-old stereotypes and embracing new experiences. So, whether you are a senior or someone looking to introduce gaming to an elderly loved one, dive in. The gaming world welcomes you with open arms, promising adventures, challenges, and connections.

Why Video Games are Not Just for the Young

When most people think of video games, they often visualize teenagers engrossed in gaming consoles or young adults battling it out in virtual arenas. However, this perception is rapidly changing, and the gaming community is witnessing a fantastic shift. Seniors are not just joining the gaming bandwagon; they are driving it with enthusiasm and skill.

The myth that video games are the domain of the young gets debunked every day. Age is just a number in the gaming world, and seniors are proving it right. With the advent of handheld electronic games tailored for older adults and computer games for seniors that cater to their preferences, the elderly are finding it easier than ever to dive into gaming.

There are many reasons for this shift. Video games for adults offer an escape, a chance to explore new worlds, take on different personas, and experience adventures. They also provide cognitive benefits, keeping the mind sharp and agile. Moreover, with the rise of video games for seniors, older adults now have games that cater to their needs and preferences.

The Therapeutic Benefits of Gaming for Seniors

Video games have expanded beyond mere entertainment. For seniors, delving into the digital realm of gaming offers a plethora of therapeutic benefits. While the younger generation might play games for fun, challenge, or competition, seniors are discovering that these virtual worlds can have real-world benefits for their mental and physical well-being.

One of the most significant advantages of playing video games for seniors is the cognitive improvements they offer. Just like any muscle in the body, the brain needs regular exercise to stay sharp. Video games, especially those that involve strategy, puzzles, or problem-solving, act as a gym for the mind. They challenge the brain, making it work harder and smarter. 

Over time, seniors who engage in such games may notice improved memory, better problem-solving skills, and enhanced attention to detail. It’s not just about winning or progressing in the game; it’s about brain training and keeping cognitive decline at bay.

Physical Benefits for Senior Gamers

Beyond mental agility, video games also offer physical benefits. Many games, especially those on consoles with motion sensors, require players to move. Whether dancing to a tune, swinging a virtual tennis racket, or going on a fitness adventure, these games enhance hand-eye coordination and reflexes. For seniors, this can translate to better balance, reduced risk of falls, and improved motor skills. Playing an electronic card game on a touch screen, for instance, can help improve finger dexterity and hand strength.

However, the benefits of gaming for seniors aren’t just limited to the mind and body. The social aspect of gaming is equally crucial. Loneliness can be a significant concern for many seniors, and video games offer a bridge to social connections. Multiplayer games allow players to join large or small groups, embark on joint adventures, and even compete in friendly matches. These interactions, though virtual, can lead to genuine friendships and a sense of community.

Online platforms and gaming communities are bustling with players of all ages, including seniors. Joining such a community can open doors to discussions, shared experiences, and even in-game events. For a senior living alone or in a care facility, these virtual interactions can be a source of joy, companionship, and belonging. It’s heartening to see elderly gamers connecting over shared interests, discussing game strategies, or simply chatting about their day in these online forums.

In essence, video games are proving to be a boon for seniors. They offer a holistic approach to well-being, catering to the mind, body, and soul. Whether it’s the cognitive challenge posed by a strategy game, the physical movement required by a dance game, or the social interactions facilitated by a multiplayer game, the world of gaming is rich with opportunities for seniors. It’s not just about passing the time or seeking entertainment; it’s about embracing a lifestyle that offers mental stimulation, physical activity, and social connections.

So, the next time you see a senior engrossed in a game on their handheld electronic game or discussing game strategies in an online forum, know that they are reaping a host of therapeutic benefits. 

Top Recommended Video Games for Seniors

The gaming industry has evolved tremendously over the years, offering a diverse range of games that cater to players of all ages, skills, goals, and mindsets. For seniors, this means a treasure trove of games tailored to their preferences, needs, and skill levels. Whether you’re a senior looking to dive into gaming or someone searching for the perfect game for an elderly loved one, this guide will introduce you to some top recommendations.

Casual games have always been a hit among seniors. These games are perfect for relaxation and leisure, offering simple mechanics and often soothing gameplay. One such game that has gained popularity among older adults is the digital card game genre. These games, available on various platforms, including handheld electronic games, allow players to enjoy classic card games like Solitaire, Poker, and Rummy. 

They’re easy to pick up, don’t require intense concentration, and can be played at one’s own pace. For those who enjoy puzzles, games like Sudoku or crosswords, available on handheld games for seniors, are excellent choices. They not only entertain but also stimulate the brain, making them perfect for a quick gaming session in the afternoon or before bed.

Challenging Video Games

For those looking for a bit more challenge, strategy games are the way to go. These games require players to think, plan, and make decisions that will impact the game’s outcome. Games like Civilization or SimCity allow players to build empires, manage resources, and engage in diplomatic relations. While they might have a steeper learning curve, they offer immense satisfaction as players see their strategies come to fruition. These games are not just about winning; they’re about brain training, challenging players to think critically and make informed decisions.

Lastly, for seniors who love a good story, adventure, and narrative-driven, then immersive games (or RPGs) are a must-try. These games are immersive, drawing players into intricate plots filled with intriguing characters, mysteries, and twists. Games like The Walking Dead or Life is Strange allow players to make choices that affect the story’s direction, offering a personalized gaming experience. They’re like interactive movies, where players are not just viewers but active participants in the narrative. For seniors who grew up reading novels or watching films, these games offer a fresh, interactive way to consume stories.

It’s also worth noting that, with the rise of video games, many developers are designing games with seniors in mind. These games often feature adjustable text sizes, slower-paced gameplay, and intuitive controls, making them accessible and enjoyable for older adults.

The world of gaming offers a plethora of options for seniors. Whether you’re in the mood for a relaxing card game, a challenging strategy session, or an immersive story-driven adventure, there’s a game out there. And with the gaming industry recognizing the potential of the senior demographic, we can only expect more games tailored for them in the future.

Platforms and Devices Suitable for Seniors

The gaming world is vast, with many platforms and devices available for enthusiasts. However, not all of them fit the unique needs and preferences of all seniors. As the gaming community becomes more inclusive, recognizing the growing number of elderly gamers, there’s been a surge in platforms and devices designed with seniors in mind. Let’s delve into some of the best options available for our seasoned players.

Touchpad games and apps for seniors have become increasingly popular, primarily due to their simplicity and accessibility. Tablets and smartphones, with their intuitive touch interfaces, are ideal for seniors who might not be familiar with traditional gaming controllers. The touch screen allows for direct interaction, making games more immersive and engaging. An electronic card game can be played by dragging and dropping cards with a finger, for instance. Additionally, app stores are brimming with games tailored for seniors, from puzzles and brain trainers to casual games for relaxation. The adjustable settings in many of these apps, such as font size and difficulty levels, make them even more senior-friendly.

Consoles have always been a significant part of the gaming ecosystem, and some of them come with user-friendly interfaces perfect for seniors. The Nintendo Switch, for example, offers games that are not only fun but also easy to navigate. Its detachable controllers are ergonomic, and the console itself can be used both on a TV or as a handheld device. Games like Animal Crossing or Mario Kart are not just entertaining; they’re also simple to understand and play. Another notable mention is the Wii, which introduced many seniors to motion-controlled games. Its titles, like Wii Sports or Wii Fit, double up as exercise games for seniors, promoting physical activity in a fun way.

For those who prefer playing on a computer, there’s no shortage of PC games tailored for seniors. Many games come with adjustable settings for visibility and controls, ensuring players can customize their experience based on their comfort and needs. Large fonts, high contrast modes, and the ability to change control schemes make these games accessible to seniors. Platforms like Steam, GOG, or Amazon Gaming offer a vast library of games, from strategy and simulation to adventure and narrative-driven titles. And for those who enjoy classic games, many computer games like Solitaire or Minesweeper come pre-installed on PCs.

In addition to these platforms, it’s worth noting the rise of handheld electronic games explicitly designed for older adults. These devices are portable, easy to use, and often pre-loaded with various games suitable for seniors. They’re perfect for a quick gaming session on the go or during leisure time.

The gaming industry has recognized the importance of catering to players of all ages, including seniors. Whether it’s through touchpad apps, user-friendly consoles, or adjustable PC games, seniors now have a plethora of options to choose from. Gaming is no longer a young person’s domain; it’s a space where everyone, irrespective of age, can find joy, challenge, and connection.

The Social Aspect of Gaming for Seniors

It’s not just about individual experiences or solo adventures anymore. For many, especially seniors, gaming has become a social activity, a means to connect, communicate, and build relationships. Let’s explore the vibrant social landscape of gaming tailored for our seasoned players.

Online communities and forums have become the heart and soul of the gaming world. These platforms are bustling with discussions, game recommendations, and shared experiences. For seniors, these communities offer a unique opportunity to connect with fellow gamers, share their insights, and learn from others. 

Websites like Senior Gamers or Silver Snipers cater specifically to the elderly gaming demographic, providing a space for discussions. Whether users are seeking advice on a challenging game level, discussing game strategies, or simply sharing a memorable gaming moment, these forums are a treasure trove of information and camaraderie.

Multiplayer games have revolutionized the way we perceive gaming. Gone are the days when gaming was a solitary activity. Today, games allow players to team up, embark on joint adventures, and even compete against each other. For seniors, this means an opportunity to foster connections and build friendships. 

Games like World of Warcraft or Stardew Valley allow players to collaborate, strategize, and share in-game resources. These games are not just about gameplay; they’re about the shared experiences, the laughter, the challenges, and the triumphs. Playing an electronic card game online, for instance, can lead to hours of fun and bonding with players worldwide.

The rise of gaming has also impacted senior living communities and centers. Recognizing the therapeutic and social benefits of gaming, many of these institutions have incorporated gaming sessions into their activity rosters. Whether it’s a group session of Wii Sports, a competitive round of an electronic card game, or a collaborative game on handheld games for seniors, these sessions are much awaited and enjoyed. They not only entertain but also promote social interaction, teamwork, and a sense of community among residents. For many seniors, these gaming sessions become the highlight of their week, a chance to bond with fellow residents and relive the joys of their youth.

Moreover, gaming events and tournaments for seniors are on the rise. These events, often organized by senior living communities or gaming enthusiasts, offer seniors a platform to showcase their skills, compete, and interact with fellow gamers. It’s heartening to see seniors armed with handheld electronic games battling it out, cheering for their peers, and celebrating the spirit of gaming.

The social aspect of gaming for seniors is profound. It’s not just about pixels, scores, or levels. It’s about the connections made, the friendships forged, and the communities built. In a world where loneliness can often plague older adults, gaming emerges as a light.

7. Overcoming Challenges: Tips for Seniors New to Gaming

For seniors who might be venturing into this realm for the first time, there could be many questions and challenges. But fear not! With the right guidance and approach, any senior can quickly become a seasoned gamer. Here are some practical tips to help our elderly friends navigate the gaming landscape with confidence and joy.

Start with beginner-friendly video games for seniors. The gaming universe is vast, with genres ranging from action-packed adventures to serene puzzles. For those new to this world, it’s essential to find games that match their pace and interest. Casual games, such as electronic card games or puzzles, are a great starting point. These games often have simple mechanics, intuitive controls, and a relaxed pace, making them perfect for beginners. Platforms like handheld games for seniors offer a curated list of games tailored for the elderly, ensuring they have a smooth and enjoyable gaming experience right from the start.

Adjustability is at the heart of modern gaming, and this is where adjusting settings comes into play. Most games today have many settings that players can tweak to their liking. For seniors, this means the ability to customize their gaming experience for maximum comfort and ease. Whether it’s increasing the font size for better readability, adjusting the game’s speed, or changing control schemes, these settings ensure that the game adapts to the player and not the other way around. For instance, many PC games offer high-contrast modes, making it easier for those with vision challenges to discern game elements.

While video games for seniors are fun and immersive experience, it can sometimes pose challenges, especially for those new to it. This is where seeking help and tutorials online can be a game-changer. The internet is brimming with resources, guides, and communities dedicated to helping players navigate their gaming journey. Websites like YouTube offer video tutorials explaining game mechanics, strategies, and tips. Online forums and communities, such as Senior Gamers, provide a platform for video game players to ask questions and share experiences. So, whether it’s understanding the rules of an electronic card game or seeking strategies for a strategy game, help is just a click away.

Another invaluable tip for seniors new to gaming is to take regular breaks. Gaming can be engrossing, and it’s easy to lose track of time. Setting a timer or alarm can remind players to take a break, stretch, and rest their eyes. This not only ensures a healthy gaming routine but also enhances the overall experience.

Lastly, the most crucial tip is to have fun and enjoy the journey. Gaming is not about winning or reaching the highest score; it’s about the experiences, the stories, and the joy of exploration. Whether it’s the thrill of completing a challenging level, the satisfaction of solving a puzzle, or the sheer pleasure of connecting with fellow gamers, the world of gaming offers a plethora of emotions and experiences. So, to all our senior friends out there, embrace the world of gaming with an open heart and let the adventures begin!

8. The Future of Video Games for Seniors

The gaming world is ever-evolving, with technological advancements and innovative game designs constantly reshaping the landscape. For seniors, this evolution promises a future filled with even more immersive, engaging, and tailored gaming experiences. Let’s delve into what the horizon holds for our seasoned gamers.

One of the most groundbreaking advancements in the gaming industry is virtual reality (VR). While VR has been making waves among the younger demographic, there’s a rising trend of VR experiences tailored specifically for seniors. Imagine reliving a cherished memory, exploring a historical site, or even taking a virtual walk in a serene garden, all from the comfort of one’s home. VR allows seniors to immerse themselves in lifelike scenarios, providing entertainment and therapeutic benefits. 

Companies are now developing VR games that cater to the cognitive and physical needs of older adults. These games not only offer a unique gaming experience but also help improve mobility, balance, and cognitive functions. The potential of VR in enhancing the quality of life for seniors is immense, making it a focal point in the future of gaming.

Another promising trend is the increasing recognition of the senior demographic by game developers. Historically, video games were primarily designed for younger audiences. However, with the rising number of senior gamers, developers are now creating games that cater to the interests, preferences, and needs of older adults. This means more intuitive controls, adjustable settings, and game narratives that resonate with seniors. For instance, the popularity of card games and puzzles among seniors has led to a surge in games being developed with features and themes that appeal to this age group. The gaming industry is realizing the potential of this demographic, and the future promises a plethora of games designed with seniors in mind.

Looking ahead, what could be the next big thing in senior gaming? Predictions point towards a blend of technology and personalization. Augmented reality (AR), which overlays digital information in the real world, offers immense potential. Imagine playing a card game where the cards come to life in one’s living room or solving puzzles that integrate elements from one’s surroundings. Another prediction is the rise of personalized gaming experiences. With advancements in artificial intelligence, games could adapt in real time to a player’s preferences, skill level, and even mood. For seniors, this means games that evolve with them, offering challenges and experiences tailored to their unique journey.

Furthermore, the integration of health and wellness into gaming is on the horizon. Games that monitor vital signs, offer exercises, or even provide cognitive training are in development. These games aim to offer a holistic experience, combining entertainment with health benefits.

The future of gaming for seniors is bright and promising. With technology advancing rapidly and the gaming industry recognizing the potential of the senior demographic, the coming years will usher in an era of gaming that is more inclusive, immersive, and tailored than ever before. So, to all the senior gamers, the future holds exciting adventures, innovations, and experiences. The world of gaming awaits!

Diving into video games for seniors might seem daunting for some, especially those unfamiliar with the latest technologies and gaming platforms. However, the industry’s evolution ensures that there’s something for everyone. From card games that evoke nostalgia to immersive virtual reality experiences tailored for older adults, the spectrum of games available today caters to diverse interests and skill levels. 

For those seniors hesitant to take the plunge into gaming, it’s essential to understand that this journey is as much about exploration as it is about enjoyment. There’s no ‘right’ game or ‘correct’ way to play. It’s all about finding what resonates with you, be it a strategy game that challenges the mind, a narrative-driven adventure that tells a compelling story, or a casual game to unwind. Modern games come with adjustable settings, ensuring players can customize their experience for maximum comfort and enjoyment. And with platforms offering games for seniors, finding the perfect game is easier than ever.

Moreover, the therapeutic benefits of gaming cannot be overstated. Beyond the sheer fun factor, games offer cognitive training, enhance hand-eye coordination, and provide an avenue for social interaction.

To the seniors curious about gaming, the message is clear: Dive in and explore this vibrant world. Whether you’re revisiting classics from your youth or venturing into new genres, the gaming world welcomes you with open arms. And to the younger generation, encourage the seniors in your life to game. Please share your favorite games with them, play together, and revel in the shared experiences.

Related posts:

• A Journey Through Time: The Best Virtual Museum Tours Around the World
• Card Games for Senior Citizens
• Snow Blowers for Seniors

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Blumhouse games debuts initial slate with 6 horror-themed titles.

A project hailing from designers Sam Barlow and Brandon Cronenberg was among those that the company teased at Summer Game Fest.

By Ryan Gajewski

Ryan Gajewski

Senior Entertainment Reporter

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Blumhouse has spent years bringing the supernatural and the deranged to the big screen, and now Blumhouse Games is bringing that ethos to the gaming sphere.

The company revealed six horror-themed video games on Friday that are set to debut later in 2024 and beyond. Created in partnership with independent designers from across the globe, the games were announced during Blumhouse Games’ presentation at the Summer Game Fest from the YouTube Theater in Hollywood Park.

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“We’re blown away by the teams who are creating our first slate of games, and truly couldn’t be more proud to partner with strong, independent game creators who are bringing unique ideas to the horror genre,” Blumhouse Games president Zach Wood said in a statement. “Our upcoming titles represent standout storytelling, inventive play styles, and fresh approaches to scary stories, created by game developers who are deeply passionate about horror.”

Blumhouse founder and CEO Jason Blum added that the gaming division feels like a return to the company’s roots. “But this time fans can get in on the action, and immerse themselves in the Blumhouse world,” Blum continued. “I’m proud of the team and we hope this first slate of games will entertain, thrill and terrify players, and we will have more in store for fans soon.”

Among the games teased in the presentation was Fear the Spotlight from developer Cozy Game Pals. Launching this year, the game centers on two teens sneaking into a school after hours and learning about a tragedy that took place decades ago.

Sleep Awake comes from developer Eyes Out and game designers Cory Davis ( Spec Ops: The Line ) and Robin Finck ( Nine Inch Nails ). The first-person psychedelic horror game takes place in the distant future and follows Katja as she deals with dangerous otherworldly forces.

Grave Seasons hails from developer Perfect Garbage. This pixelated farming and town simulation game is set in Ashenridge, where one of the residents is a supernatural serial killer.

Created by developer Playmestudio, The Simulation focuses on a retired game designer whose only evidence for a crime is a never-before-seen horror game.

Project C is from developer Half Mermaid Productions, in addition to game designers Sam Barlow ( Her Story ) and Brandon Cronenberg ( Possessor ). The concept is described as twisted and heartbreaking.

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Yearly Oregon competition helps students make the leap from playing video games to developing them

Students present their video game to judges in a science fair-like fashion at the Oregon Game Project Challenge on May 18, 2024. The competition is for middle- and high-school students in Oregon.

Courtesy of the Oregon Game Project Challenge

According to Pew Research Center , a whopping 85% of U.S. teens play video games. But many of these teens are probably not making games themselves.

The Oregon Game Project Challenge offers them a chance to do just that. It’s an annual competition for middle- and high-school students in the state that has been turning gamers into video game creators since 2007. Participating teams are given a theme in the fall and have the entire school year to create a game of their own, from coding to art design and sound.

Andrew Scholer is the director of OGPC. He says that demand for the competition has grown over the years, from roughly 20 teams at its launch to nearly 90 teams and almost 300 participants competing in the 2023-2024 academic year.

“We really think we’ve got something that works well,” Scholer said. “Our biggest concern at this point is just capacity. We were limited in the number of teams we could invite this year just based on space available.”

Century High School's Toast Lads have won best-in-show at the Oregon Game Project Challenge in the past two competitions.

Jason Pelkey is a senior at Century High School in Hillsboro and the team lead for Toast Lads. In May, the team won best-in-show honors for the second year in a row.

He described feeling stuck playing games like Minecraft and instead wanted to explore concepts for games he wanted to play.

“I wanted to make games myself so that I could have the freedom to explore my own imagination,” he said. “With all these ideas running through my head, just being able to make them and play them myself sounded super fun.”

The Toast Lads winning game is called MARK3T M3TAL and is described as a mix of survival games like Raft and Don’t Starve Together, but set on a moving train — something Pelkey was passionate about. ”The idea that you could have a moveable base is such a novel concept for me, and a train is like the best thing you can do because you can add carts and it’s a pretty stable foundation to add stuff on, unlike a boat,” he said.

The best-in-show award was given to the Century High School team Toast Lads. It's called MARK3T M3TAL and involves resource gathering, upgrading your base and fighting enemies.

But working in the gaming industry can be risky. This year alone, more than 10,000 people who make video games have lost their jobs. Scholer says that while there are massive problems facing the industry now, he sees OGPC’s role not to create more developers, but help foster community and leadership.

“The skills that they’re developing in these projects both the technical and the project management and the working on teams, they’re hopefully gonna be able to apply these skills to some aspect of what they do,” he said.

Three members of Century High School's Toast Lads team working on their game, MARK3T M3TAL.

Courtesy of Jason Pelkey

As for Pelkey, he’s leaving the door open for future game development opportunities, especially lucrative ones.

“I’m more leaning towards cybersecurity,” he said. “But it would be a fun side project and I’ve heard stories about people who do that as a side job and eventually get rich because of it.”

Andrew Scholer and Jason Pelkey joined OPB’s “Think Out Loud” to discuss the Oregon Game Project Challenge. You can listen to the full conversation here:

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Blumhouse’s Big Video Game Push Is Bearing Fruit

• Author: Oliver Brandt

Famed horror film studio Blumhouse announced a big push into video games last year, announcing it was opening up a publishing house for the biggest entertainment industry in the world, and now it’s ready to show off its work.

During the Summer Game Fest showcase, a 2-hour-long presentation featuring dozens of video game announcements, Blumhouse revealed six video games, all of which are horror-themed and very much in line with what you’d expect from the company. The six games announced will be launching in 2024 and beyond, and Blumhouse president Zach Wood seems pretty excited for them.

“We're blown away by the teams who are creating our first slate of games, and truly couldn't be more proud to partner with strong, independent game creators who are bringing unique ideas to the horror genre ,” Wood says. “Our upcoming titles represent standout storytelling, inventive play styles, and fresh approaches to scary stories, created by game developers who are deeply passionate about horror. We hope players see our collective love of the genre and indie creativity shine through our partners and our portfolio of games.”

The company has released synopses for all of the games shown off during the presentation, which we’ve listed below for you:

Fear the Spotlight

Blumhouse Games

A creepy love letter to classic 90s teen horror stories, Fear the Spotlight is designed for a modern audience. Sneak into a school after hours with Vivian and Amy, survive a seance gone wrong, solve tactile puzzles and uncover the disturbing mystery behind a school tragedy decades before. And whatever you do, stay out of the spotlight.

SLEEP AWAKE

From Cory Davis (Spec Ops: The Line) and Robin Finck (Nine Inch Nails) comes a first-person psychedelic horror set in the far future. In the last known city on Earth, people are disappearing in their sleep. Those who remain exist in a crisis of reckless experiments to keep awake. Katja must navigate depraved death cults, otherworldly forces, and the ever-present horror of The HUSH, to save herself and those who rely upon her.

Crisol: Theater of Idols

Dive into a unique first-person horror adventure where folklore and religion intertwine in a nightmarish version of Spain. Players will navigate a world steeped in eerie legends and sacred rituals, facing terrifying statues of saints that come to life. In a desperate fight for survival, the player must sacrifice their own blood to use as ammunition against the horrors that lurk around every corner.

The Simulation

A never-before-seen horror game is the only evidence found at a crime scene. As a retired game designer hired to investigate the case, you find a hidden mode that plunges you into a rabbit hole of the unknown. As more obscure games are uncovered, cross the fourth wall of their worlds and delve deep into terrifying truths that transcend their own reality…

Grave Seasons

A charming pixelated farming and town simulation game where, amidst all the relationship building and crop harvesting, players must figure out which of the townsfolk is a supernatural serial killer. Uncover the hidden secrets of Ashenridge, find a way to stay one step ahead of the murderer... and maybe save the next victim.

Code Name: Project C

An ambitious game from the minds of Sam Barlow (Her Story, IMMORTALITY) and Brandon Cronenberg (Possessor, Infinity Pool). Prepare to have your mind broken by Half Mermaid's most twisted vision yet.

For more video game news, be sure to visit Video Games on Men’s Journal , where you can see everything announced at the Summer Game Fest 2024 showcase .

Trailer for Horrifying New Blumhouse Film Imaginary

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