## 1 Introduction
### Background and Framework
#### 1.1.3 Serious Games for Cognitive Disabilities  
To promote better development in their environment, people with intellectual disabilities need to develop cognitive functions, which refer to the mental processes required to perform any task and facilitate the reception, selection, transformation, storage, processing, and recovery of information. Serious games for cognitive disabilities are digital games designed with the purpose of promoting cognitive development in individuals with cognitive impairments. Serious games have been identified as effective tools for training and supporting individuals with cognitive disabilities [10; 11; 12; 13]. They offer engaging and motivating learning experiences. The definition of serious games varies among researchers. [PERSON] was one of the first to provide a formal definition, stating that serious games should not be solely for personal pleasure but should aim at instructing, informing, and educating [14; 15]. [PERSON] defines serious games as mental contests played with a computer according to specific rules, utilizing entertainment to promote various objectives related to government, corporate training, education, health, public policy, and strategic communication [16]. [PERSON] presents an updated definition that combines different elements of serious games, emphasizing their use for different purposes and incorporating video game components to enhance user experience and engagement. \"Computer application used for different purposes, such as the dissemination of messages, training and data exchange in different contexts (education, defense, religion, health, politics), containing elements of video games, such as story, gamification, gameplay, art and software, both of which are used to enhance user experience and engagement\" [17; 18; 19]. Various components are considered in serious games, including the serious aspect, storytelling, gameplay, and gamification [20; 21; 22; 23; 24; 25]. Various components are considered in serious games, including the serious aspect, storytelling, gameplay, and gamification:  
* Serious Aspect: refers to the pedagogical aspects or content relevant to the specific field addressed in the serious game;
* Storytelling: involves describing the story or narration within the game, incorporating visual art;
* Gameplay: refers to the actions or functionalities players perform in the game scenario;
* Gamification: incorporates elements from video games that motivate and engage the player. Several studies have investigated the relationship between serious games and cognitive disabilities, highlighting the positive impact of digital games on children's cognitive skill development. In his article [26] [PERSON] emphasizes the significance of inclusive game design and underscores the importance of considering individuals with disabilities. This involves ensuring accessibility, providing customization options, and allowing control over game elements such as timing and response. By incorporating these principles, game designers can create engaging experiences that foster enjoyment, facilitate cognitive growth, and offer equal opportunities for players of all abilities. [PERSON] [10] designed a serious game to improve identification and auditory discrimination skills in children with hearing disabilities who use hearing aids or cochlear implants. The project integrates emotional design, serious game development methodologies, and activities applied by teachers to enhance listening skills in these children. Similarly, other researchers [11] developed a playful environment to reinforce motor and cognitive aspects in children with intellectual disabilities, focusing on educational content related to the human body. Using visual and sound elements in digital learning creates multisensory experiences beneficial for different disabilities, strengthening vision, hearing, and motor coordination.