A recently created video game is causing many (including myself) to think critically about the possibility that we are living in a simulation. While the odds of this are very low, the topic is fascinating and it is not entirely incomprehensible.
The hoopla behind this new question of astronomic proportions has been catalyzed by the announcement of a video game called No Man’s Sky. The game utilizes artificial intelligence to randomly generate codes that multiply. The result is a simulation universe in which there exist 18,446,744,073,709,551,616 unique planets. Yes, you read that correctly. That is 18 QUINTILLION unique planets on which you can explore in the video game. The ultimate objective is to reach the center of the universe, but the most fascinating aspect is that each planet follows the rules of physics and astronomy. Additionally, while this presents and incredibly “big picture” view, the video game is said to be realistic down to every blade of grass.
Here is a depiction from the trailer for the video game.
Each planet is subject to form it’s own life throughout the evolution of the game, which means that planets will contain various forms of animal species and alien forms. At the same time, not all of these planets will contain life; in fact, the majority of them will not as they follow the constraints of astronomy. The algorithms used could feasibly follow the Drake equation, which could be subject to change based on the usage of the game by the players, and each planet could have the possibility of forming life. The sheer vastness and complexity of this game, created by humans, provides food for thought as to whether we could be pawns in a similar simulation.
If nothing else, this has made me question reality and my existence more so than pretty much anything has.
astrologankeller 
I think this is a really thought provoking post, and it really makes me wonder about our existence. It would have to be a really complex simulation, but it is easy to see how the laws of physics could be programmed into a simulation. This is really interesting, and it will definitely keep me up at night! What do you think this possibility could mean for humanity and human life. Could other universes exist that are simulations created by us? So many questions!
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Well one thing that this has provoked me to think about is whether or not this is a consistency in life. Once it reaches a certain point of intelligence, is it bound to create simulations? Is that a common thread? This is getting Inception-y, but is it in the nature of intelligent life to, once it reaches a certain level, produce even more simulations? If so, how deep would we be in this line? Are we the first or just one in a long line? These are the things that keep me up at night.
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