11 Video Games That Sharpen Your Brain—and May Help You Make Smarter Money Moves

Video games are often seen as pure entertainment, but many titles also help sharpen cognitive skills that apply to real-world decision-making—especially when it comes to money.

Whether it’s managing resources, calculating risks, or thinking strategically, certain games challenge your brain in ways that mirror personal finance and investing.

From city-building simulations to high-stakes poker games, these 11 titles might just make you a sharper, more strategic thinker—and potentially a smarter money manager.

1. PokerStars VR: Risk Management and Probability

Winning in poker isn’t just about luck—it requires understanding probability, reading opponents, and making calculated financial bets. PokerStars VR provides an immersive, risk-free way to practice these skills in a virtual environment.

Managing risk, staying calm under pressure, and knowing when to fold are all strategies that apply to real-world finance. Whether you’re investing in stocks, negotiating deals, or planning a budget, the ability to assess risks and rewards is crucial for financial success.

2. Cities: Skylines: Understanding Taxes and Economic Growth

If you’ve ever wondered how government spending, tax policies, and infrastructure investments shape an economy, Cities: Skylines provides a hands-on lesson. This city-building simulation forces players to manage public funds wisely, balance tax rates, and decide where to invest for growth.

Much like managing personal finances, you must avoid overextending your budget while ensuring steady growth. Poor financial planning in the game can lead to debt, economic collapse, or unhappy citizens—just like in real life.

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3. Civilization VI: Master Long-Term Strategy

This turn-based strategy game spans centuries, requiring players to build and sustain civilizations. Success depends on managing resources, investing wisely, and planning for the future—all critical skills in personal finance and wealth-building.

Much like retirement planning or long-term investing, Civilization VI forces players to think ahead, adapt to changing conditions, and allocate resources efficiently to stay competitive.

4. The Sims 4: Budgeting and Financial Priorities

Building a life in The Sims 4 isn’t just about designing homes and throwing parties—it’s also about financial responsibility. Players must earn money, pay bills, and decide how to spend within their means.

Overspending on luxury items while neglecting essential expenses can lead to financial hardship, just like in real life. This game teaches the importance of budgeting, saving, and making financial priorities that align with long-term goals.

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5. RollerCoaster Tycoon: Smart Investments Pay Off

Building a profitable amusement park requires more than just adding thrilling rides. In RollerCoaster Tycoon, players must manage expenses, set ticket prices, and invest in new attractions while keeping customers happy.

The game teaches fundamental business principles, such as reinvesting profits, managing operational costs, and understanding consumer demand. Whether you’re running a small business or managing a stock portfolio, the lessons from this game apply to real-world finance.

6. Stardew Valley: Managing Money and Resources Wisely

Running a farm in Stardew Valley requires careful planning, budgeting, and patience. Players must decide which crops to grow, when to invest in equipment, and how to balance daily expenses with long-term financial sustainability.

The game mirrors personal finance concepts like delayed gratification, financial independence, and the benefits of reinvesting profits for future growth. It’s a great reminder that small, smart financial decisions can lead to long-term rewards.

7. Minecraft: Creativity and Resource Planning

While Minecraft is often seen as a creative sandbox, it also teaches essential problem-solving and resource management. Players must gather and allocate materials wisely to build, craft, and survive.

Just like in personal finance, stretching resources and planning strategically is key. Whether saving for a major purchase or building an investment portfolio, having a plan leads to long-term success.

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8. Monopoly Plus: Lessons in Real Estate and Negotiation

The digital version of Monopoly makes classic financial lessons even more engaging. Players navigate property investments, negotiate deals, and manage cash flow to stay competitive.

In real life, leveraging assets wisely unlocks financial flexibility. Controlling debt, seizing opportunities, and balancing risk can shape long-term wealth-building strategies.

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9. Eve Online: Market Trading and Economic Strategy

With one of the most sophisticated player-driven economies in gaming, Eve Online is a real-time lesson in supply and demand, market speculation, and business management.

Players can trade resources, run corporations, and participate in large-scale economic strategies, mirroring real-world stock trading and financial planning. Success requires analyzing trends, making strategic investments, and knowing when to cash out—just like in finance.

10. Animal Crossing: New Horizons: Debt and Savings in Action

In Animal Crossing, players take on loans to upgrade their homes, save money for future projects, and make spending decisions. Unlike many games, there’s no hard deadline for paying off debt, which teaches the benefits of pacing financial goals.

The game promotes smart saving habits, delayed gratification, and strategic financial planning. Players quickly learn that spending too much on frivolous items can slow long-term progress, a lesson that applies to real life.

11. Football Manager 2024: Budgeting and Leadership

Managing a soccer team in Football Manager 2024 involves more than just picking players—you must also balance budgets, negotiate contracts, and invest in scouting talent.

Every financial decision affects long-term success. Overspending on star players may lead to short-term gains but can create financial instability. Strategic financial management is key to sustained success like managing a business or personal investments.

Gaming Your Way to Better Money Moves

Video games do more than entertain—they train your brain to think critically, plan, and manage resources wisely.

Whether you’re strategizing in a virtual economy, negotiating real estate deals, or practicing risk management in a simulated casino, the skills learned in these games can translate to smarter financial decisions in the real world.

So, next time you pick up a controller, remember: gaming might make you a better money manager.