Brain Boost Beta / Gamma Wave

Both Brain Age and Big Brain Academy were hits that showed us all a more cerebral side of gaming, and helped the DS gain popularity among casual and hardcore gamers alike. Now, Brain Boost Beta Wave and Brain Boost Gamma Wave are two more games that promise to make you smarter than your non-gamer friends. If you any think these games will work miracles on your intellect, though, don't apply to MENSA just yet.

Both games begin with a superficial back story, told with cute characters and animations. You must help your robot friend find his missing thinking cap (Beta) or memory chip (Gamma). As you practice the so-called brain boosting minigames, you can go on to a challenge mode, which is identical to the practice mode, except that when you clear the levels you will travel from planet to planet searching for the robot's missing item.

The minigames in Gamma Wave are supposed to improve your memory, while Beta Wave's games work on your concentration. The instructions actually say that you must play the games for a minimum of three months before you'll notice any results. But here's the thing: If you can focus enough to play this game for three months without giving up and throwing your DS against a wall, your concentration does not need improving anyway.