This is a shoddy write-up which sensationalizes the more rigorous underlying scientific work. The actual research here appears to find methodological shortcomi

This is a shoddy write-up which sensationalizes the more rigorous underlying scientific work. The actual research here appears to find methodological shortcomings in many papers purporting a broader effect on intelligence or problem-solving ability from some popular brain training games. It does not, however, conclude that there is no effect. It is unfortunate (though very common) that the article oversimplifies and sensationalizes. The headline "brain training exercises just make you better at brain training exercises" is far too definitive. I'm glad the "might" qualifier at least was added here on HN. Similarly, the article saying "the same is not true", definitively, for the benefits of physical vs mental exercise games. Examples abound throughout the article and it reads as sloppy, biased, and exaggerated. Not uncommon today, but always unfortunate still. It's a shame many brain-training companies make exaggerated claims themselves. So, in some ways, it's fine to see some counterfire in online press. Unfortunate if that's what it comes down to, though.