I used an A.I. to make videogame characters fight to the death

Doug Doug introduces a unique tournament to determine the strongest video game character, using AI programs Novel AI and Infrakit to simulate battles. The first match is an epic confrontation between Mario, the Italian plumber, and Master Chief, the hero from Halo. Both characters are stripped of their weapons and engage in a brutal fight, which ends with a surprising twist involving Master Chief's invisibility armor and a strategic play by Mario, leading to a conclusion that sets the stage for further battles.

The second battle features Ryu, the karate master from Street Fighter, against Link, the soldier from Hyrule. The fight takes a dramatic turn when Hadoken, Ryu's energy wave, becomes a character in its own right, influencing the outcome. Despite a fierce battle, Link emerges victorious, using Hadoken against Ryu, showcasing the power of AI in determining the winner based on three confirmed hits or a confirmed death.

The third round presents a peculiar match-up between Gandhi, the leader of India's independence movement known for non-violence, and Minecraft Steve, a character from the sandbox game. Gandhi, surprisingly armed with nuclear capabilities, faces off against Steve's diamond sword and building skills. The fight ends quickly with Gandhi's strategic use of nuclear weaponry, highlighting the AI's ability to process character abilities and historical context.

The fourth battle contrasts the ancient Nordic power of the Dragonborn from Skyrim with the futuristic arsenal of Doom Guy. The Dragonborn's magical abilities and weapons are pitted against Doom Guy's shotgun and BFG. The fight is intense, with both combatants displaying their strengths, but ultimately, Doom Guy's relentless assault proves too much, and he secures a clear victory.

Senator Armstrong, a character with a football background and political ambitions, is set against Trevor, a career criminal from Grand Theft Auto V. The fight is narrated with a dark twist, ending with Trevor's self-destruction due to an 'evil force,' leading to Senator Armstrong's victory. The paragraph explores the characters' backstories and the dramatic conclusion of their fight.

Sonic, the speed demon hedgehog, and Kirby, the pink puffball with the ability to absorb powers, face off in a battle that quickly turns chaotic. Their fight is interspersed with humorous interactions and unexpected alliances. The battle ends with Kirby's unique ability to inhale and digest his opponents, leading to a gruesome victory over Sonic.

Sans, the skeletal salesman from Undertale, and Matt, a sportsman from Wii Sports, engage in a rivalry that culminates in a deadly battle. Their fight is marked by a palpable hatred and a series of attacks and counterattacks. The match ends swiftly with Matt's efficient use of a sword and boxing glove, leaving Sans defeated.

The battle between Kratos, the Ghost of Sparta, and Solid Snake, the legendary soldier, is a clash of titans. Both characters are known for their strength and tactical prowess. The fight is intense, with Kratos using his Chaos Blades and Snake employing stealth and cunning. The narrative explores their psychological warfare and the dramatic conclusion of their fight.

In a battle of Nintendo titans, Mario and Link face off in a fight that tests their combat skills and their will to win. The fight is a stalemate for a long time, with both characters showing immense resilience. However, the tide turns when Link manages to land a decisive blow on Mario, leading to a victory and a place in the semifinals.

Gandhi and Doom Guy engage in a battle that reflects their contrasting ideologies. Gandhi, despite his peaceful principles, fights to protect his civilization, while Doom Guy seeks revenge for past betrayals. The fight is long and grueling, with both characters displaying their unique abilities. Ultimately, Gandhi's strategic use of a nuke decides the outcome in his favor.

Senator Armstrong, with his nanomachines and powerful fists, battles Kirby, who is armed with his insatiable appetite and the ability to absorb powers. The fight is intense, with both characters landing significant blows. However, Kirby's ability to absorb and utilize Senator Armstrong's powers turns the tide, leading to a victory for Kirby.

Solid Snake and Matt from Wii Sports engage in a battle that showcases their respective skills. Snake's tactical approach and use of a tranquilizer gun are met with Matt's agility and strength. The fight is closely contested, but Snake's strategic use of a dart gun and a well-placed explosion secure him the victory.

Link and Gandhi face off in a battle that seems evenly matched. Both characters display their combat prowess, with Link using his Master Sword and Gandhi employing a nuke rocket launcher. The fight is a stalemate until Link manages to land a decisive blow, severing Gandhi's head and securing his place in the finals.

In the ultimate battle, Kirby faces off against Solid Snake. Kirby, with his ability to absorb powers and grow, is a formidable opponent. Snake, despite his injuries, fights with all his might. The battle is a test of endurance and strategy, with Kirby eventually emerging victorious, showcasing his adaptability and the power of absorption.

The final battle determines the strongest video game character of all time. Link and Kirby engage in a fierce fight, with Link using his arsenal of weapons and Kirby utilizing his power to inhale and copy abilities. The fight is a spectacle, with both characters displaying their strengths. However, Kirby's versatility and adaptability lead him to victory, earning him the title of the strongest video game character.

In a surprising twist, Master Chief interrupts the celebration of Kirby's victory with a fierce attack. Despite the unexpected challenge, Kirby and Link team up to face Master Chief. Their combined forces and strategic use of their abilities lead to a dramatic showdown. Master Chief's powerful force field and rocket attacks are matched by the duo's resilience and resourcefulness, culminating in a climactic victory for Master Chief.