Frequently Asked Questions About Mind Games

Here are a few general questions we frequently receive about Mind Games.

What is Mensa?

Mensa is an organization for anyone who scores in the top 2 percent on an accepted standardized intelligence test. The organization has almost 50,000 members in the United States. Learn more about Mensa on our website.

Can my city host Mind Games?

Sure — if your local Mensa chapter turns in a bid to host the event. Like all Mensa events, Mind Games is planned and staffed mainly by volunteers, so nothing happens without a commitment from the local members. Find your Local Group, or email us for more information.

What are the Mind Games judging criteria?

Judges rate each of more than 50 games on originality (structure, concept, creativity), game play (enjoyment, excitement, challenge), play value (repeatability, longevity, price), aesthetics (look, feel, style) and instructions (brevity, clarity, completeness).

What does the Mensa Select® seal mean?

The Mensa Select seal signifies that a game has been chosen one of the top five new games in a given year by members of American Mensa. Indirectly, it indicates that a game is original and creative in concept, challenging, a good value for the price, easy to comprehend and play, and above all, fun! Browse all of the Mensa Select winners.

What does “Recommended by American Mensa” mean?

By using the “Recommended by American Mensa” label, a manufacturer signals that its game, while not a top-five pick, was still identified by member judges as one they enjoyed playing and worth recommending to others. “Recommended by American Mensa” was introduced at Mind Games 2013 and has been a part ever since. Each year, 10-15 games are recognized by our judges as “Recommended by American Mensa.” Browse all of the Mensa Recommended winners.

Why have both options?

The Mind Games annual competition has more than 50 annual entries for judging. The Mensa Select seal is the top and ultimate prize that each game strives to achieve. “Recommended by American Mensa” provides manufactures an opportunity to leverage our brand for their own marketing purposes. Both options provide strong marketing opportunities for manufacturers.