Board Games vs. Video Games: Which Is Better for Your Brain?

I’ll admit it, I play both. Some evenings I’ll happily dive into a board game with friends, and other times I’ll switch on the PC for a quick gaming session. But it’s always fascinated me: when it comes to giving our brains a workout, are board games or video games better?

Let’s take a look (and don’t worry, I promise this won’t turn into a “board games good, video games bad” rant, because I enjoy both!).

The Case for Board Games: Strategy, Memory, and Social Smarts

When I play games like Catan or Carcassonne, I’m constantly planning ahead, making trades, and trying to second-guess my opponents. That sort of decision-making is fantastic brain exercise.

Board games also strengthen memory and recall, ever played Mysterium or Pandemic and tried to keep track of all the moving parts? Your brain gets a real workout. Plus, there’s the social factor: face-to-face conversation, reading people’s expressions, and negotiating. Those little interactions do wonders for emotional intelligence.

The Case for Video Games: Reflexes, Speed, and Focus

I’d be lying if I said video games don’t challenge the brain too. Fast-paced games improve reaction times and hand-eye coordination, and strategy-based ones like Civilization or StarCraft can keep you problem-solving for hours.

There’s also something to be said for the flow state, that feeling of being completely absorbed in a game, time flying by without you noticing. Video games are masters at creating that immersive experience.

So Which Is Better?

Honestly, it depends on what you’re after. If you want to sharpen memory, social skills, and long-term strategy, board games are unbeatable. If you’re after quick thinking, reflex training, and immersive solo play, video games shine.

The real sweet spot? Mixing both. I’ll take a Friday night of board games with friends for the laughs, banter, and brain workout, and maybe a Saturday morning on the PC when I just want to zone out.

Why Borrow Board Games?

Here’s where it gets interesting: buying every board game you fancy is expensive (and let’s be honest, shelf space runs out fast). That’s why I set up Love Board Games, a service where you can rent board games, try new ones every month, and never get bored.

With a board game subscription, you can test out classics, discover hidden gems, and decide what you actually love before buying (if you even want to). You’ll save money, reduce clutter, and always have a fresh brain workout ready to go.

So, the next time you’re torn between screen time and table time, remember: both can be great for your brain, but only one lets you gather friends around the table, laugh until you cry, and build memories you’ll never forget.