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Kioku Games

N-back

Press MATCH when the current symbol equals the one N steps back.

N-back

How to Play: N-back

🎯 Goal

Press MATCH when the current symbol equals the symbol shown N steps ago.

🖱️ Mouse / Touch

  • Watch the symbols flash in the center
  • Click MATCH (or press Space) when current = N back
  • Wait through if it doesn't match — no penalty for waiting

⌨️ Keyboard

Space / Enter Press MATCH instantly

💡 Tips

  • Sub-vocalize: say "cat-dog-cat" → match
  • Most adults max out around N=3

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About this game

N-back was introduced by Wayne Kirchner in 1958 and became famous via Susanne Jaeggi's 2008 study suggesting it could improve fluid intelligence. Each round shows 20 symbols; you press MATCH when the current symbol equals the one shown N steps before.

Beginners start at N=1 (current = previous). Most adults find N=2 challenging. N=4 is professional-level. Personal best is saved per device.