Game-based & gamified assessments explained: Pymetrics, Arctic Shores, and more

By Marin Devereux·7 min read·Updated 2026-04-12

Game-based assessments (GBAs) replace traditional multiple-choice with short, interactive games — balloon pumping, card matching, digit recall, facial emotion reading. They feel casual, but every click and reaction time is being measured.

Why companies use them

Traditional tests have a practice effect — the more you drill, the better you score. GBAs are harder to game because they measure how you decide, not just what you decide. Banks like JPMorgan and Citi use Pymetrics. Consumer firms like Unilever and McDonald’s use them too.

The main game types

Balloon Analogue Risk Task (BART)

You pump a balloon. Each pump earns money, but the balloon can pop at any time. This measures risk tolerance — are you cautious or aggressive? Neither extreme is ideal. Companies look for calibrated risk-taking.

What it measures

In the balloon game, you consistently pump to 40 out of a possible 128 pumps. What does this suggest?

A relatively cautious risk profile. The algorithm compares your average pumps to the role’s ideal range — a trading role wants higher risk tolerance than an audit role.

Digit Span / Memory Grid

Numbers or patterns flash on screen. You reproduce them. This measures working memory — how much information you can hold and manipulate at once. Start with easy sequences and build.

Emotion Detection

Faces flash for a fraction of a second. You identify the emotion. This measures emotional perception — useful for client-facing roles.

Tower of Hanoi / Planning Tasks

Move disks or objects to reach a goal state in minimum moves. Measures planning and strategic thinking.

Can you practice for game-based assessments?

Partially. You cannot memorise answers, but you can familiarise yourself with the game mechanics so you spend less time confused and more time performing. That is what the Forge Pymetrics practice section does — it shows you each game type so you know what to expect.

Common mistakes

Trying to game the system. Algorithms detect inconsistent patterns. Play naturally but attentively.
Rushing. Speed is measured, but erratic clicking flags low attention. Be steady.
Ignoring the practice round. Every game has a practice phase. Use it to calibrate — it does not count.

No second chances

Most companies only allow one attempt at GBAs. Unlike SHL tests, you cannot retake them if you perform poorly. Familiarise yourself with the format before the real thing.

Try Pymetrics-style games on forge

Practice each game type with explanations of what is being measured and what good performance looks like.

Explore Pymetrics practice

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