Australian biotech startup Cortical Labs, previously known for teaching “mini-brains” to play Pong, has announced a new breakthrough. Their DishBrain system — consisting of approximately 800,000 to 1 million living human brain cells grown in a Petri dish — has now mastered a far more complex environment: the shooter Doom.
While the neurons previously handled the two-dimensional graphics of Pong, Doom presents a significantly more complex three-dimensional world. This demonstrates major technological progress over the past four years.
Researchers translate the game’s digital world into the “biological language” of neurons — electrical impulses. The game’s video feed is converted into patterns of electrical stimulation that the brain cells perceive as input data.
Brett Kagan, Chief Scientific Officer at Cortical Labs, noted: “Right now, the cells are playing like a beginner who has never seen a computer.” However, they already demonstrate the ability to search for enemies, shoot, and turn.
The scientists aim to prove that biocomputers based on living cells can adapt and perform goal-directed tasks in real time. In the future, such hybrid systems could form the foundation of a new generation of technology.
As a reminder, Gentle Mates and Paper Rex have advanced to the playoffs of VALORANT Masters Santiago 2026.
