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Lab-Grown Human Neurons Learn to Play Doom on Cortical Labs' CL1

A Python API let an outside developer build the interface in days using rewards to guide the culture's actions.

Overview

  • Cortical Labs connected roughly 200,000 human neurons on a multi‑electrode array to the 1993 game, stimulating cells and reading responses in real time.
  • Game visuals were translated into spatial electrical patterns the cells could recognize, and neural spikes were decoded into movements, aiming, and shooting.
  • Training relied on feedback signals that rewarded correct behavior, with artificial intelligence refining how game information was encoded for the neurons.
  • The system demonstrates beginner‑level, goal‑directed play that outperforms random firing but still loses frequently, according to the researchers.
  • Cortical Labs emphasizes the culture lacks pain receptors or structures for higher cognition, positioning the demo as a public testbed for future hybrid computing uses.