Neural correlates of chess expertise: a systematic review of brain imaging studies comparing expert versus novice players

Williams, MJ, Palace, M, Welsh, JC and Brooks, SJ (2025) Neural correlates of chess expertise: a systematic review of brain imaging studies comparing expert versus novice players. Brain Mechanisms. ISSN 3050-6425

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Abstract

Chess expertise involves a combination of advanced cognitive skills including strategic thinking, spatial reasoning, self-regulation of arousal/stress and memory, which are reflected in distinct neural processes. However, the precise neural mechanisms underlying these adaptations remain unclear. Understanding how chess expertise shapes brain function and structure across various brain imaging modalities will enhance our knowledge of expertise-related brain function. A systematic review of 18 neuroimaging studies using fMRI, fNRIS and EEG is presented here, highlighting the neural corelates of chess expertise versus those who have less experience of chess but who can play. Articles were selected based on their use of neuroimaging techniques and their focus on identifying brain regions linked to chess proficiency. It was found that expert chess players compared to novices exhibit greater activation in the bilateral fusiform gyrus and posterior middle temporal gyrus, which are associated with visual processing and spatial perception. In addition, experts demonstrate enhanced functional connectivity in networks underlying cognitive control and decision making, including the anterior cingulate cortex and the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. Structural differences, such as reduced grey matter volume in the occipito-temporal junction and mediodorsal thalamus, suggest dynamic neurobiological changes that may reflect increased neural efficiency in chess experts. Studies show that chess expertise is associated with both structural and functional brain changes that reflect enhanced cognitive performance. These findings highlight the potential for chess training to improve cognitive abilities, such as impulse control and self-regulation, suggesting possible applications for cognitive interventions in clinical and other populations such as military or emergency services where cognitive performance needs to be optimal under pressure.

Item Type:	Article
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology
Divisions:	Psychology (from Sep 2019)
Publisher:	Elsevier
Date of acceptance:	10 June 2025
Date of first compliant Open Access:	16 June 2025
Date Deposited:	16 Jun 2025 08:25
Last Modified:	16 Jun 2025 08:30
DOI or ID number:	10.1016/j.bramec.2025.202516
URI:	https://researchonline.ljmu.ac.uk/id/eprint/26593

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