From Rest to Cognitive Engagement: EEG Markers of Tetris Performance

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Department of Cognitive Sciences, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.

2 Cognitive science laboratory, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.

Abstract

Background: Video games like Tetris engage distinct cognitive processes, yet the neural mechanisms underlying gameplay remain incompletely understood. This study investigates how Tetris modulates brain activity patterns compared to resting state, focusing on oscillatory dynamics and their behavioral relevance.

Methods: We recorded 32-channel EEG in 32 participants during rest and Tetris gameplay. Spectral analysis identified power differences in key frequency bands (theta: 4-6Hz; alpha2: 10-11.5Hz; beta3: 28-29Hz). Cluster-based permutation tests (p<0.03, FDR-corrected) localized significant changes, while Spearman correlations and regression analyses examined performance relationships.

Results: Three main findings emerged: (1) Gameplay increased frontal theta (cognitive control) and occipital beta3 (visual processing) while decreasing parietal alpha2 (attention reallocation); (2) Regional band power correlations showed a shift in co-modulation patterns from stronger frontoparietal theta covariance (rest) to enhanced parieto-occipital synchrony (gameplay), reflecting task-specific regional engagement; (3) Frontal theta modulation predicted performance (R²=0.322, p=0.004), with stronger theta increases correlating with better scores (r=+0.57, p<0.01).

Conclusion: Tetris induces rapid changes, with frontal theta emerging as a key marker of cognitive adaptability. These findings demonstrate the utility of Tetris for studying neuroplasticity and suggest its potential as a paradigm for cognitive training interventions. Future research should explore longitudinal changes in these neural patterns with extended practice.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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Cognitive Science Research
Volume 1, Issue 2
July 2025
Pages 30-43

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History

  • Receive Date: 07 May 2025
  • Revise Date: 27 May 2025
  • Accept Date: 20 June 2025
  • First Publish Date: 01 July 2025
  • Publish Date: 01 July 2025

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