How Quantum Computers Enhance the Spookiness of Horror Video Games

Quantum computers are being harnessed for innovative horror video games like Quantum Backrooms, available online.

The oddities of quantum objects have captivated philosophers, artists, and now game developers. James Wootton from Moth Quantum, along with his team, is creating a horror game, Quantum Backrooms, featuring labyrinthine levels generated by real quantum technology.

This game draws inspiration from the “Backroom” horror legend, originally conceived on an internet forum, where players navigate endless rooms. In Wootton’s creation, each room reflects a quantum state linked to a qubit in a quantum computer, and the pathways between qubits mirror the connections among rooms.

Wootton explains that Quantum Backrooms evokes the sensation of being confined within a quantum computer. As players focus their gaze, what remains out of sight continuously shifts, illustrating the principle that the state of a quantum object alters upon observation.

No access to quantum computers is needed by players, as they are solely utilized in the game’s development. Wootton hopes that Quantum Backrooms will resonate with horror enthusiasts seeking a unique blend of spookiness driven by qubits. “A player could engage with this link without realizing it’s powered by a quantum computer,” he explains. You can play it here.

Laura Pispanen from Aalto University in Finland states there are hundreds of quantum games available, including titles like Quantum Backrooms that feature content generated on quantum hardware, as well as those simulating quantum states on classical systems. Despite the current limited availability of quantum hardware, interest in quantum gaming continues to rise.

While Quantum Backrooms may not revolutionize quantum computing, it could represent the most advanced and accessible iteration of a quantum game thus far, according to Michael Cook of King’s College London. Game developers often lead the charge in leveraging new computing technologies, making access to quantum hardware transformative even if impractical for the general public. “Their unique requests and ideas can drive genuine advancements in research,” remarks Cook.

Moth Quantum aims for Quantum Backrooms to pave the way for integrating quantum technology into everyday consumer products. “Just as AI recently transitioned from niche research to a mainstream consumer product, I believe quantum computing will follow a similar trajectory,” states Wootton.