External and model validity in a systematic review of game-based interventions

Game-based learning, training, exercises, serious games, and gamification represent distinct approaches, integrating games into diverse contexts. Lately, interventions based on these approaches have gained popularity due to their potential to enhance cognitive outcomes. The term game-based intervention (GBI) was adopted to describe the use of all these playful processes with the goals of cognition and behavior promotion. Here, we present complementary research originating from a comprehensive systematic review examining the influence of GBI on adult cognition. This additional research evaluates the external and model validity of the original studies included in a systematic review, adhering to a registered PROSPERO protocol and PRISMA guidelines. Our systematic methodology covered various databases, resulting in 1398 articles. Following examination, 42 studies (26 randomized control trials and 16 non-randomized control trials) were selected.