Melbourne, Australia-based Cortical Labs has successfully trained clusters of living human brain cells to navigate the 1993 classic video game, Doom. Researchers connected approximately 200,000 human neurons to software that translates gameplay into electrical signals and neural activity into in-game controls. The cells can now move, react to enemies, and fire weapons, albeit at a beginner's level.
The experiment utilizes the company's CL1 device, where neurons are cultured on a multi-electrode array. This allows for electrical stimulation and real-time interpretation of cellular responses. The neurons learn through feedback signals, receiving rewards for correct actions, reinforcing desired behaviors. Artificial intelligence is used to refine how game information is encoded into electrical signals to guide the cells.
While the system shows adaptability and learning, researchers emphasize that the neurons react to inputs rather than possessing true understanding of the game. This work explores practical applications of neural adaptability, using gaming as a public-facing demonstration, and highlights a new approach to computing with living neural networks.