Part 2/13:
Launched within the open-ended sandbox of Minecraft, AYS—short for Autonomous Intelligent Reinforcement inferred symbolism—stands out as the first truly self-learning AI capable of functioning independently without relying on preset instructions or vast datasets. It learns through trial and error, engaging directly with its environment, and adapting in real time to obstacles and challenges.
Minecraft was chosen as the testing ground because of its complex, unpredictable, and richly diverse environment, featuring forests, caves, rivers, mountains, and various entities. This dynamic setting demands an AI that can navigate, problem-solve, and develop strategies on the fly—traits that AYS exemplifies remarkably well.