Game Guide
Chimp Test Explained: Science, Training, and How to Beat a Chimpanzee [2026]
Learn about the Chimp Test, the famous memory game from Kyoto University research. Discover the science behind it and challenge Ayumu the chimp online for free.
What is the Chimp Test?
The Chimp Test is a cognitive assessment that measures visual working memory. Numbers appear randomly on a grid, and you must memorize their positions in a short time. After the numbers disappear, you tap them in order starting from 1.
This test became world-famous through a 2007 study by Sana Inoue and Tetsuro Matsuzawa at Kyoto University's Primate Research Institute. Their research showed that young chimpanzee Ayumu significantly outperformed human university students, capturing global attention.
Scientific Background
The Kyoto University Research
In 2007, Sana Inoue and Tetsuro Matsuzawa published "Working memory of numerals in chimpanzees" in Current Biology. This study developed a "limited-hold memory task" to compare visual working memory between chimpanzees and humans.
Key findings:
- Numbers were displayed for 650ms, 430ms, and 210ms conditions
- Young chimpanzees (especially Ayumu) maintained high accuracy across all conditions
- Human subjects' performance dropped significantly with shorter display times
- At 210ms, Ayumu maintained ~80% accuracy while humans dropped to ~40%
Why Chimpanzees Outperform Humans
Professor Matsuzawa suggests that humans may have lost rapid visual memory abilities during evolution as they acquired language skills. Chimpanzees appear to possess "eidetic memory" (photographic memory) that allows them to capture complex visual information instantly.
Research Update
Later research (Cook & Wilson, 2010) showed that humans can achieve equal or better performance than chimpanzees with adequate practice. The original findings may have reflected differences in training history rather than a fundamental cognitive gap.
Cognitive Abilities Measured
Visual Working Memory
The ability to hold and process visual information for short periods. Essential for everyday information processing.
Spatial Recognition
The ability to accurately remember number positions. Related to map reading and navigation skills.
Processing Speed
The ability to absorb information within short display times. Useful for quick decision-making.
Attention
The ability to focus on multiple items simultaneously. Forms the foundation for multitasking.
How to Play
Start the Game
Click the "Start" button to begin. You'll start with 4 numbers.
Memorize the Numbers
Numbers appear randomly on a 5×5 grid. During the memorization time (1.5-3 seconds), remember all the number positions.
Tap in Order
When the numbers disappear and turn into white squares, tap them in order starting from 1. Correct answers turn green.
Level Up
Complete all numbers correctly to advance to the next level with one more number. Three mistakes end the game.
Score Guide
| Level | Numbers | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Beginner | 4-5 | Starting level. Most people begin here |
| Intermediate | 6-7 | Achievable with practice |
| Advanced | 8-9 | Equal to Ayumu the chimpanzee |
| Expert | 10+ | Exceptional visual working memory |
Training Benefits
Regular Chimp Test practice may provide the following benefits:
- Improved Visual Working Memory: Enhanced ability to process multiple visual information simultaneously
- Strengthened Focus: Training to absorb information quickly may improve concentration
- Better Processing Speed: Develops the ability to quickly recognize and memorize information
Note: Results vary between individuals. Not everyone will experience the same effects.
Tips and Strategies
-
Use Chunking - Group numbers into sets of 2-3 for easier memorization. For example, "1,2 in top-left" and "3,4 in center."
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Find Patterns - Look for lines or curves in the number arrangement as memory cues.
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Use Peripheral Vision - Instead of focusing on one point, take in the whole screen to capture more information at once.
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Choose Appropriate Memorization Time - Start with longer times (2.5-3 seconds) and gradually decrease as you improve.
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Stay Relaxed - Tension narrows your field of vision. Take deep breaths and stay calm while playing.
Combining with Dual N-Back
The Chimp Test and Dual N-Back both train working memory but use different approaches.
| Feature | Chimp Test | Dual N-Back |
|---|---|---|
| Memory Type | Visual/Spatial | Visual + Auditory |
| Time Frame | Instant memory | Sequential (N steps back) |
| Difficulty | Number count | N-Back level |
| Session Length | 1-2 minutes | 15-20 minutes |
Combining both allows you to comprehensively train different aspects of working memory.
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FAQ
Q:
Conclusion
The Chimp Test emerged from groundbreaking Kyoto University research that demonstrated chimpanzee Ayumu's superior performance over humans. However, with practice, humans can potentially reach similar levels.
It's quick to play and excellent for training visual memory and concentration. Challenge yourself and test your memory against a chimpanzee!
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