I am lucky to get together with my large family and my friends regularly. We usually play games such as Racko, Dominos, Rumikub, Codenames, Yahtzee, trivia games, card games, and recently, Mahjong. So, I was wondering what the experts think about game playing.
In general, it is positive. Games foster bonding, communication, and strategy. Unlike screen-based activities, games require active participation, which strengthens relationships, encourages communication, and provides a break from digital distractions
Games encourage face-to-face engagement and laughter. Many games (such as card games and Mahjong) require critical thinking. Other games, such as Charades or Pictionary, emphasize collaborative skills. Games can be accessible to all ages and skill levels and encourage intergenerational cooperation. Games reinforce social skills because players must use patience, turn-taking, and cooperation.
Other benefits are improved memory, critical thinking skills, strategic skills, math skills, spatial relations, and dexterity (e.g., cards). Many games provide a distraction from the pressures of daily life which can reduce anxiety and boost moods. I remember after my husband died, I went to my sister’s house and we played games. I laughed and had a good time, a distraction from my grief and the realization that someday I would be able to laugh again.
Mahjong in particular requires recall abilities, and cognitive speed. Mahjong is a demanding mental workout, involving the memorization of tiles, patterns, and hands. Research suggests that regular Mahjong play (e.g., 2–4 times per week) can slow cognitive deterioration and lower the risk of dementia in older adults.
Games are especially good for families, providing essential bonding time, reducing screen time, and fostering cognitive skills like memory, logic, and strategic thinking. They teach life skills such as patience, sportsmanship, and cooperation. Managing wins and losses teaches patience, empathy, and resilience. For children, games offer a safe environment to learn how to win gracefully, lose without losing their temper, and handle frustration.
But as we know there are some downsides, especially when a player is competitive, bored or doesn’t recognize when luck is involved. Even marginally competitive games can lead to arguments, with up to 20% of game nights disrupted by intense, unfriendly behavior. Games like Monopoly are frequently cited as causing arguments. If the game fosters competition, some players cannot handle losing. This can lead to “checking out,” frustration, or accusations of cheating.
When there are disparities in experience less experienced players can feel excluded, bored, or inadequate. In cases of games such as Charades one person can “take over” making it less fun for others. Other times, especially with competitive games like Monopoly, players may “gang up” against a specific person.
Despite the obstacles, experts conclude that playing games is a net positive, we just need to remember that it is just a game.
