Neural correlates of Sudoku play: a systematic review of brain imaging studies

Introduction: Sudoku is a popular logic-based puzzle that requires sustained attention, working memory, and rule-based reasoning. Despite its widespread use, the neural processes supporting Sudoku play have not been systematically synthesised, limiting understanding of its potential applications beyond leisure. Methods: This systematic review aimed to examine the neural correlates of Sudoku solving and to evaluate its potential relevance as a cognitive training paradigm. Six neuroimaging studies were included (five fMRI, and one fNIRS). Results: Across haemodynamic studies, Sudoku solving consistently engaged frontoparietal networks, including the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) and parietal regions implicated in executive control and visuospatial working memory, alongside activation of the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), associated with performance monitoring and cognitive control. Discussion: The included fNIRS study provided converging evidence of increased prefrontal activation during Sudoku solving under more ecologically valid conditions. Together, these findings suggest that Sudoku play recruits distributed neural systems supporting cognitive control, monitoring, and memory processes. While the limited number and heterogeneity of studies preclude firm conclusions regarding efficacy, the observed neural engagement highlights Sudoku as a candidate task for probing executive function and self-regulatory processes in both healthy and clinical populations.