Gameplay Bricks Model, a Theoretical Framework to Match Game Mechanics and Cognitive Functions.

This article focuses on establishing correspondences between video game (VG) and serious game (SG) mechanics and specific cognitive stimulations, particularly executive functions, to aid in preventing and managing cognitive decline related to aging or neurodegenerative diseases. It proposes the Gameplay Bricks model, a formal theoretical framework that categorizes game mechanics into 14 major Metabricks—seven obligations and seven prohibitions—based on the "set of rules" component of gameplay, avoiding subjective taxonomies like genre classifications. The study presents initial mappings suggesting that obligation Metabricks predominantly stimulate selective attention, access to long-term memory, and updating functions, while prohibition Metabricks mainly engage cognitive inhibition and self-control; games combining both types intensify these cognitive demands. The authors highlight the need for further experimental and meta-analytic research using this model to refine the correspondence grid and support its application in therapeutic and game design contexts.