What Is the Attention Arcade?
The Attention Arcade is a gaming platform from BrainLeap Technologies that includes a collection of nine PC games that, thanks to an eye-tracker device purchased separately, use eye movements to control the on-screen action. Built on the premise that eyes and attention move in tandem, Attention Arcade promises to improve and strengthen focus and attention skills. For children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD or ADD), heightened attentional skills can boost working memory, inhibitory control, and cognitive flexibility. The Attention Arcade is the only gaze-driven intervention designed to train attention.
How Does the Attention Arcade Work?
The Attention Arcade is built on the scientific premise that attention and gaze usually shift simultaneously and share much of the same brain circuitry. The games leverage this connection with challenges designed to train different aspects of attention. A player uses their eyes to control the games via an eye tracker.
BrainLeap recommends 20 minutes of gameplay in the Attention Arcade, 3 to 5 times per week, for 8 to 12 weeks, to achieve optimal eye-movement control and attention skills. BrainLeap says that attention may improve after as few as 4 weeks.
Who Should Use the Attention Arcade?
The Attention Arcade is marketed to children ages 7 to 12 who want to improve attention skills, reading, math, executive function, and life outcomes. These games are designed for use at home or in school to make frequent training accessible and easy. The games are not compatible with Mac or Chromebook computers.
How Much Does the Attention Arcade Cost?
The price to download and play the PC games is $39 per month. To access the eye-tracker required to play the games, consumers can bundle the eye-tracker and games for $49/month or purchase the tracker directly at Amzn.to/3aA37bX.
What Studies Have Been Done On the Attention Arcade?
The games were initially created and tested at the University of California, San Diego, and research was funded by the National Institutes of Health. The clinical trial included individuals aged 9-25. All participants who completed the at-home training study showed improvements in at least one measure of attention and most showed improvements on multiple measures.
