How Ancient Strategy Games Make You Think Smarter

shahmeerarshad008
Aug 18
3 min read

1. Introduction: Why Ancient Strategy Games Still Matter

Board games are not a new invention. Long before video games and mobile apps, people around the world used ancient strategy games to sharpen their minds, practice decision-making, and connect with others. These games were not just for entertainment—they were designed as mental training tools. Today, playing these classics still offers powerful cognitive benefits that help us think more critically, solve problems creatively, and stay mentally sharp.

2. The Timeless Appeal of Ancient Strategy Games

Games like Chess, Go, Hnefatafl, Latrunculi, and Mancala have stood the test of time. They were played by kings, warriors, and philosophers as ways to simulate real-world strategy, prepare for challenges, and even teach leadership. The reason they remain popular is simple: the rules are easy to learn, but the strategies are infinitely complex. That balance makes them the perfect blend of fun and intellectual growth.

3. Brain Benefits of Ancient Strategy Games

Cognitive Skills Development

When you play ancient strategy games, you train your mind to analyze, predict outcomes, and make better choices. These games demand foresight and patience, strengthening your critical thinking skills with every move.

Memory and Concentration

Remembering moves, anticipating patterns, and recalling tactics all require strong memory. Research shows that playing brain-boosting board games improves both short-term and long-term memory while enhancing focus.

Problem-Solving and Creativity

Unlike routine activities, games push you to think outside the box. Ancient strategy games reward creativity, whether it’s creating new tactics in Go or finding a clever defense in Chess.

4. How Ancient Strategy Games Train Critical Thinking

Learning from Chess and Go

Chess teaches players about cause and effect, long-term planning, and tactical sacrifices. Go, often called the “game of encirclement,” requires spatial awareness and balance between offense and defense. Both games are masterclasses in strategic thinking skills.

Adapting Tactics in Hnefatafl and Latrunculi

These lesser-known games, played by Vikings and Romans, emphasize adaptability. Unlike repetitive puzzles, ancient strategy games evolve with every opponent’s move, teaching flexibility in thought.

5. Social and Emotional Intelligence Through Play

Building Patience and Focus

Patience is a mental muscle. Games like Nine Men’s Morris or Brandubh slow players down, forcing them to wait, observe, and carefully choose moves. This builds resilience and emotional discipline.

Strengthening Social Bonds

While many focus on the solo cognitive benefits, playing with others builds communication, empathy, and healthy competition. Shared play strengthens connections and teaches respect for different perspectives.

6. Ancient Strategy Games vs. Modern Brain Training

Brain-training apps may be trendy, but ancient games provide deeper engagement. Unlike repetitive digital exercises, ancient board games combine history, culture, and challenge. This makes them not only fun but also meaningful forms of mental exercise.

7. Why Playing Ancient Strategy Games is a Mental Exercise

Neuroscientists often describe the brain as a muscle: the more you use it, the stronger it gets. Just like physical workouts, mental workouts are essential. Ancient strategy games provide exactly that—structured but challenging exercises that strengthen cognitive skills, memory, and logical reasoning.

8. Getting Started: Bringing Ancient Games into Modern Life

Thanks to modern innovations like rollable digital boards, you no longer need heavy wooden sets or stone pieces to enjoy these classics. Portable solutions like Pixply’s foldable gaming board bring ancient strategy games into the modern living room, making them more accessible than ever.

9. Conclusion: Smarter Minds Through Timeless Play

Ancient strategy games are more than relics of the past—they are timeless tools for mental growth. Whether you’re playing Go, Chess, or Hnefatafl, each move strengthens your ability to think critically, remember better, and solve problems creatively. In a world full of digital distractions, reconnecting with these classics is not just entertainment—it’s a proven way to train your brain and become smarter through play.