Battle Drones: an AI-coded RTS game with audio-based multiplayer
In brief
- Battle Drones is an RTS game coded via AI agents (321 commits, 12 iterations) and playable in browsers or on mobile.
- The game features 3D models, a random map generator, and local multiplayer via audio synchronization.
- A major update rebalanced gameplay after 1,200 automated tests, improving match duration and competitiveness.
Developer Simon Willison unveils Battle Drones, a real-time strategy (RTS) game inspired by Command & Conquer, entirely coded through AI agents. After 12 major iterations and 321 commits, the game runs in browsers and on mobile, featuring 3D models, varied maps, and a random map generator.
The project evolved from a minimalist prototype to a playable game through incremental adjustments to units, maps, and mechanics. A major update rebalanced gameplay after over 1,200 automated tests, improving match duration and competitiveness. Local multiplayer via audio synchronization was added, despite technical challenges.
Battle Drones demonstrates the ability of coding agents to produce a functional game, though its success relies on human testing and iterative adjustments. The addition of giant mechs and new maps highlights an experimental approach, with mechanics designed to encourage varied strategies.
This summary gives you the essentials. The full article, its figures and quotes are on Simon Willison's Weblog.
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