Exploring Reality Through the Lens of Simulation Theory in Gaming

This installment of the Playable Futures series delves into the intriguing realm where simulation theory and video games intersect. The notion that life could be a simulation raises a multitude of questions about the nature of reality, the role of a potential 'creator,' and how this concept parallels the design and experience of video games. Leon Kirkbeck, co-creator of The Cryptid Factor and CEO of UFO Rodeo, shares his insights on the simulation hypothesis, suggesting that it's more nuanced than the often-simplified idea that we're more likely to live in a simulation than not. Kirkbeck's fascination with coincidences and the concept of 'lazy code' in simulations offers a unique perspective on how we might perceive and interact with a simulated reality. The parallels between game design and a potential simulated reality are striking, with considerations of user-generated content, the impact of AI on our perceptions, and the ethical implications of a 'free-to-live' or premium life experience. Drawing comparisons with games like Roblox and Minecraft, where users can create and shape their own worlds, raises questions about the potential for humans to influence and enrich their simulated environment. However, the cautionary tales from games, such as the intrusion of ads and monetization strategies, also offer insights into the potential pitfalls of a simulated life. Exploring how people behave in games can provide clues about human behavior in a simulated reality, with considerations of morality, accountability, and the impact of 'lobby' systems on our actions. The influence of game culture on our reality, such as the 'skinification of fashion,' demonstrates how the boundaries between the virtual and the real are becoming increasingly blurred. Ultimately, the conversation about simulation theory generates more questions than answers, but it's through exploring these questions, particularly through the lens of gameplay drivers like reward, autonomy, and escapism, that we may uncover new insights into the nature of reality and our place within it.