Selective Attention Test

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Selective Attention Test

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Count the passes. Don't look away.

The Selective Attention Test is a free browser version of the famous count-the-passes experiment. Watch the players in white shirts, count every pass they make and ignore the black team. It sounds simple, until the reveal shows how much your focus filtered out.

Each round is generated fresh, so the passes, movements and surprises are different every time you play. After the clip you enter your count and tick only the things you actually saw. Wrong ticks are recorded, so honesty matters.

The test is inspired by Simons and Chabris's 1999 study on inattentional blindness, where about half of viewers missed something remarkable in plain sight. If you enjoy discovering how your mind takes shortcuts, try the eight nudges in Gut Check or train your sharp eyes in Hue Test.

How to play

Press start and keep your eyes on the players in white. Count every pass they make, including bounce passes. You cannot rewatch the clip.

Enter your best count, then tick everything else you noticed. The result card shows your count, what you spotted and what slipped past you, and you can save it to share without spoiling the surprises.

FAQ

What is a selective attention test?

It asks you to focus on one task, like counting passes, while other things happen in the scene. It shows how focused attention can make you miss unexpected events, an effect called inattentional blindness.

Is this the famous gorilla test?

It is inspired by the classic 1999 experiment by Daniel Simons and Christopher Chabris, recreated as a new animated scene that changes every time you play.

Is this a scientific test?

No. It is an educational game, not a clinical or validated assessment of attention.

Can I play on my phone?

Yes. It is free on mobile and desktop, with no download or account.

An educational game inspired by attention research, not a clinical or validated test.

Selective Attention Test game artwork