CrushStations

CrushStations is a working memory training game backed by research from New York University. Players remember creature colors and types to free them from an advancing octopus, building the cognitive foundation that supports academic success.

Working memory—the ability to hold and mentally manipulate information—is a core component of executive function. Executive functions enable people to plan, control behavior, monitor progress, and switch between tasks. Research consistently shows that strong executive function correlates with literacy and math performance, long-term academic gains, and school readiness. Disparities in these skills among young learners can contribute to achievement gaps, making targeted practice valuable for all children.

CrushStations trains working memory through engaging gameplay. As you progress, you must track multiple creature attributes simultaneously and respond under time pressure. This mirrors real-world demands where holding and updating information matters—from following multi-step instructions to solving problems that require mental flexibility.

The game is part of the Smart Suite, developed by New York University's CREATE lab in partnership with the University of California, Santa Barbara, and The Graduate Center, CUNY. Research examining the effectiveness of this training approach is underway, with findings to be published.

Ideal for parents, educators, and learners seeking to build cognitive skills through play, CrushStations offers a research-informed way to strengthen the mental processes that underpin classroom learning. Download CrushStations today and discover how memory games can support growing minds.