Introduction:

During an E3 event, Elon Musk and game designer Todd Howard are introduced as unexpected but like-minded individuals. E3 is highlighted as not just a platform for games, but also for discussing their impact on the world. Elon Musk is recognized for his diverse contributions to various fields, and also for his love of gaming.

Friendship Origins:

The initial topic of discussion is the friendship between Elon Musk and Todd Howard. They reveal that several people had been trying to introduce them over the years. The connection finally occurred when Howard purchased a Tesla online, equating the experience to setting a game to ‘Ultra’ settings.

Shared Love for Gaming:

Elon Musk expresses his admiration for Howard’s games, stating he has thoroughly explored games like Fallout 3 and Skyrim. Musk admits he couldn’t complete Skyrim due to its vastness but also enjoyed Fallout 4.

Fandom Materialized:

Musk shares an anecdote about asking for a life-sized statue of Volt Boy, a character from the Fallout series, for a birthday party. He humorously mentions that the statue was a hit among the few who recognized it, but perplexing for others.

The conversation highlights the convergence of technology and gaming through the friendship of two influential figures in their respective fields.

Early Inclination Towards Game Development:

Elon Musk discusses his childhood interest in gaming. At the age of around 10 or 11, he programmed a simple game called Blaster, involving a space fighter combatting an alien space freighter. The game was published when he was 12, and it’s noted that Musk was responsible for every aspect of the game including graphics and sound.

Alternative Career in Gaming:

The discussion reveals that Musk once considered a career in game development. He found the prospect of making games to be “super fun,” and even worked at a gaming startup named Rocket Science in the early ’90s. Despite this, he never applied to major gaming companies like Bethesda, opting instead for pursuits in sustainable energy and space exploration.

Interconnected Goals for the Future:

Musk talks about his multifaceted goals for a better future. He underlines the need for sustainable energy solutions and space exploration. While expressing enthusiasm for these aims, he shares a cautious outlook towards artificial intelligence (AI), which he believes could be a double-edged sword for humanity.

Impact of Video Games on Technology:

Musk posits that video games serve as a significant catalyst for technological interest among youth. He notes that many software engineers, both in his companies and globally, got their start through an early love for video games. Moreover, he points out that the problem-solving skills acquired in game development can be transferrable to other technical fields.

Contrasting AI in Video Games and Aerospace:

The conversation touches on the complexities of AI in different fields. Musk suggests that while rocket AI can be relatively straightforward, gaming AI is far more intricate. This is corroborated by game developer John Carmack, who also engages in aerospace engineering. The difference in stakes between the two is humorously discussed: while a game can be rebooted, a rocket failure is catastrophic.

Final Thoughts on Reality and Gaming:

The session ends on a light note with Musk joking that if reality were a video game, it would have great graphics but a terrible plot and a long “spawn time.” This showcases Musk’s long-standing affinity for gaming culture and its influence on his views of technology and problem-solving.

Influence of SpaceX on Game Development:

Todd speaks about how SpaceX’s advancements in space technology have inspired aspects of Starfield, a science fiction game they are working on. He describes his visit to SpaceX as an experience where “the Avengers meets NASA,” emphasizing the awe-inspiring atmosphere and its influence on his game’s design.

Interest in Self-driving Cars:

Todd also mentions his passion for self-driving cars, although he clarifies that this interest hasn’t directly influenced his game development. However, he notes the shift in dynamics as games are now being introduced into Tesla cars.

Cross-Industry Collaboration:

Both speakers acknowledge that they are working together on bringing video games into Tesla vehicles. Starting off with “Fallout Shelter,” the plan is to introduce a free version of the game that can be played on the car’s screen, featuring characters that interact as if they are part of the car’s environment.

Operational Constraints:

When asked about the practicalities of playing games in a Tesla, Elon Musk clarifies that the car must be parked to engage in gameplay. This addresses concerns about the safety implications of integrating video games into vehicles.

Unity and Unreal Porting:

Though not elaborated in depth, the mention of porting Unity and Unreal Engine games into Tesla cars indicates a broader vision for expanding the range of gaming experiences available in these vehicles. This suggests potential future collaborations and a melding of automotive and gaming technologies.

The conversation reveals the increasingly interconnected nature of different technology sectors, from aerospace to gaming to automotive, and how cross-industry collaborations can result in innovative products and experiences.

Streaming Capabilities:

Elon Musk highlights that Tesla vehicles will allow users to watch videos through streaming services like Netflix and YouTube when the car is parked and connected to Wi-Fi. This feature is particularly useful at supercharging stations, turning wait times into entertainment opportunities.

Focus on Fun:

The underlying principle, Musk explains, is to make the Tesla car as fun as possible and to offer features other cars don’t have. He mentions the possibility of engaging with the car’s screen to play games or watch videos while waiting for someone or during a road trip.

Gaming Integration:

Tesla vehicles are already equipped with some older Atari games, and controllers from gaming consoles like Xbox or PS4 can be connected for a better gaming experience. Musk is exploring other popular games to add, dependent on user engagement levels.

Storage Limitations:

Due to storage constraints on the car’s screen—originally not designed for gaming—there will be a limit to how many games can be stored at one time. The idea is to rotate games based on their popularity among users.

Humorous Easter Eggs:

Musk mentions a “fart app,” a humorous feature that allows users to simulate fart noises coming from any seat in the car. This Easter egg is part of Musk’s strategy to make the car experience as enjoyable as possible.

Future Plans:

Musk teases that they have some clips of upcoming games for the car, and the addition of new games will be determined by how much they are played. He suggests an archival system might be implemented for less popular games due to storage limitations.

The discussion indicates Tesla’s commitment to enhancing user experience, from providing entertainment options to incorporating gaming, all while managing the technical constraints of the vehicle’s hardware.

Integration of Racing Game:

Elon Musk discusses the inclusion of a racing game in Tesla cars that can be played either in single-player or two-player modes. This seems to be a part of Tesla’s broader strategy to make car time more enjoyable.

Use of Steering Wheel as Controller:

The conversation highlights that the car’s steering wheel can be used as a controller for the racing game. This adds a layer of interactivity and realism to the in-car gaming experience, optimizing the existing hardware for new forms of engagement.

Braking and Acceleration Controls:

Elon Musk confirms that the car’s brake is wired into the game controls. He also hints at the potential use of the scroll wheel for gas pedal functionality in the game, carefully considering safety by avoiding accidental accelerations.

Safety Considerations:

While the brake is integrated for in-game use, safety measures are being considered for the gas pedal. The idea is to use a less sensitive control like the scroll wheel to avoid accidental launching of the vehicle, emphasizing the balance between innovation and safety.

General Enthusiasm:

The host expresses amazement and appreciation for these interactive features, signifying that these innovative steps are welcomed and likely to positively impact user experience in Tesla vehicles.

The segment indicates Tesla’s continuous efforts to merge entertainment and utility, emphasizing both the immersive nature of in-car gaming and the safety measures in place.

Innovation and Failure:

Elon Musk and Todd Howard discuss the inseparable relationship between innovation and failure. Musk emphasizes that innovation often involves venturing into unexplored territories, where the chances of failure are high. Howard, reflecting on the ups and downs of Fallout 76, suggests that audiences are increasingly open to the idea of innovation, even if it leads to failures along the way.

Fan Support and Community:

Todd Howard mentions the role of strong community support in overcoming challenges. He points out that despite the initial struggles of Fallout 76, the game has turned into a thriving online community, emphasizing the importance of resilience and adaptation.

Long-Term Vision:

Both speakers agree that projects often take time to evolve and become successful. Having a vision and pushing for it is crucial, even if the path involves failures or challenges. This perspective is relevant to both gaming and other forms of innovation, like Musk’s endeavors in space.

Authenticity in Gaming:

In discussing the upcoming game Starfield, Todd Howard explains that the game aims for a level of authenticity in its depiction of space travel, including considerations about fuel types and physics. However, this authenticity is balanced with gameplay mechanics, as a too-realistic portrayal could be punishing for players.

Space Travel Constraints:

Elon Musk delves into the realities and limitations of space travel, even in the context of a video game. He speaks about the immense distances involved and the need for faster-than-light travel to make interstellar exploration feasible. Musk humorously likens the constraints of our universe to a well-designed video game, questioning the seemingly arbitrary limitations like the vast distances between stars.

Exploring Real and Virtual Frontiers:

The conversation encapsulates the theme of pushing boundaries, whether in the domain of technology, space, or gaming. Both speakers share insights into how innovation often requires a willingness to fail and learn, underscored by a long-term vision and community support.

Importance of Risk and Innovation:

The speakers appreciate Elon Musk’s willingness to take risks in order to innovate in fields like space exploration and self-driving cars. The “I’m not sure how that works, I’m going to try this a different way” attitude is highlighted as essential for progress.

Inspiration from Sci-fi and Video Games:

Elon Musk discusses how science fiction and video games can serve as a source of inspiration for future technologies, fostering an environment where creative thinking about seemingly impossible technologies is encouraged.

Exploration of Advanced Physics Concepts:

Elon elaborates on the challenging physics of concepts like warp drive. While he acknowledges the massive energy requirements to make such a concept a reality, he suggests that new discoveries in physics might provide future solutions.

The Role of Simulations:

Elon explains that Tesla employs simulations to model the real world, focusing on minute details to help develop their self-driving technology. He highlights the challenges arising from the inconsistencies and anomalies found in real-world driving conditions.

Challenges in Self-Driving Technology:

The discussion also covers why self-driving is a complicated problem to solve. Elon Musk points out that it isn’t just about following road markings but also understanding and interpreting the “drivable space,” especially when road conditions are less than ideal.

Speculations on Universe and Physics:

Elon makes intriguing observations about the mysteries of the universe, such as dark matter and dark energy. He playfully muses about these being potentially like ‘bugs’ in a grand “orbital dynamics physics simulator.”

Entertainment vs. Simulation:

The conversation touches on how video games can serve dual purposes—pure entertainment and also simulations that can help explore or test ideas. The role of games as both an imaginative and predictive tool is acknowledged.

Overall, the discussion blends elements of technology, science fiction, and future possibilities, all connected by a thread of innovation and risk-taking.

Challenges in Self-Driving Car Logic:

Elon Musk discusses the intricacies of teaching self-driving cars to navigate the real world. He describes scenarios where driveways might be interpreted as “drive spaces” by the car, which could potentially lead to unwanted diversions.

Underestimating the Speed of Technology:

Speaker 08 notes that people often underestimate how quickly technology evolves. They emphasize that advancements in self-driving technology will have profound and far-reaching consequences, from city planning to societal behaviors like alcohol consumption.

Impacts on Future Generations:

The conversation touches on how self-driving cars could fundamentally change the life experiences of future generations. Speaker 08 speculates that children may never need to learn how to drive, signaling a shift in one of the most common rites of passage.

Unforeseen Effects on Industries:

Speaker 08 humorously suggests that the success of self-driving cars may boost industries like alcohol and gaming, as people will have more free time and fewer responsibilities like driving.

Video Games as a Catalyst for Technology:

Elon Musk points out that video games have been a significant driver of advancements in computing technology, specifically graphics processing units (GPUs). These GPUs have been critical not just for improving game graphics but also for accelerating artificial intelligence research.

Intersection of Gaming and AI:

Elon concludes by linking video games and artificial intelligence, stating that the advances in GPUs initially meant to improve game graphics have had a spillover effect. These GPUs are now crucial components in neural networks and machine learning algorithms, which in turn are key to developing self-driving technologies.

The discussion highlights the interconnected nature of seemingly unrelated fields like video gaming, artificial intelligence, and self-driving cars, demonstrating how innovation in one area can have cascading effects across multiple domains.

Evolution of Gaming AI:

The discussion highlights that the most significant advancements in video gaming will likely be in the realm of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Although graphic fidelity initially captures attention, its impact diminishes over time. AI, on the other hand, is still a challenge to perfect. With the help of cloud computing and neural networks, the gaming experience could become increasingly realistic in terms of NPC (Non-Player Character) interactions and behavior.

Realism vs. Simulation:

Speakers contemplate whether games could reach a point where they become indistinguishable from reality, perhaps reaching a “singularity” of simulation and world blending. The discussion raises the philosophical question of simulation theory—the idea that reality itself could be a simulation.

Personal Preferences and Future Desires:

When asked about personal preferences in gaming, the primary speaker notes that work commitments have reduced his gaming time. The last game he enjoyed was Fallout 4. He also expresses interest in the theme of Cyberpunk, mentioning that a cyberpunk-themed pickup truck is in development.

Passion-Driven Development:

The conversation ends with the idea that developers should be passionate about the games they are creating. One should aim to build something they personally love, as this emotion will likely translate into a product that resonates with others. This sentiment is echoed by both the primary speaker and a representative from Bethesda Game Studios.

Product Inspiration:

The primary speaker mentions a pickup truck under development, inspired by the Cyberpunk theme. This showcases how gaming culture and themes can permeate other sectors and influence product design.

Starlink and Low-Latency Gaming:

Elon Musk discusses Starlink, a constellation of satellites aiming to provide low-latency internet around the world. The first generation aims for 20 milliseconds latency, ideal for real-time gaming. Subsequent generations intend to achieve sub-10 milliseconds latency.

Democratizing Gaming:

The discussion also touched upon the democratizing effect of such technology. Lower latency and worldwide access would remove barriers to gaming, making it as ubiquitous as other forms of entertainment. The technology could open the gaming world to billions who don’t currently have access.

Simulation Theory Question:

Towards the end of the discussion, the topic shifted to the philosophical concept of living in a simulation. A question was raised about whether the intricacy of individual personalities and cellular-level complexities make the simulation theory seem less plausible. However, the topic was not deeply explored.

Miscellaneous Topics:

The discussion had moments of levity and pop culture references, including mentions of streaming on Twitch and an upcoming episode of Rick and Morty. These lighter moments did not contribute significantly to the main themes but added a casual tone to the conversation.

Mars Entertainment Plans:

Elon Musk, the primary speaker, was questioned about how astronauts will stay entertained on long journeys to Mars. He amusingly suggested a “LAN party in space,” indicating that gaming could be an entertainment medium for astronauts on their trip.

Neural Net Testing:

When asked how one could sign up for testing his neural net program, Elon responded humorously by mentioning a USB-C port, subtly evoking the experimental and forward-looking nature of his projects. Though he said it might “sting a little,” it’s an indication of the ongoing research on human-machine interfaces.

Staying Focused Amidst Noise:

In response to a question about maintaining focus amidst the “noise” and high-pressure situations he faces, Elon joked about wishing he could turn the difficulty level down. The casual remark reflects the real challenges in his various entrepreneurial endeavors.

Learning from Failures:

Elon reflected on early setbacks in SpaceX’s history, specifically mentioning the failure of the first three rocket launches. He noted that he initially invested half of his PayPal earnings into SpaceX, Tesla, and SolarCity, but ended up having to invest all of it. The success of a fourth rocket launch was crucial for SpaceX and also had implications for Tesla’s credibility and funding.

Impact on Gaming:

Though the main speaker was Elon Musk, other speakers brought up the democratization of gaming, facilitated by technology like Starlink, which aims to provide low-latency internet globally. The implication is that this technology could make gaming accessible to regions where it’s not currently prevalent.

Job and Internship Queries:

Though not directly related to Elon, a moment arose where an audience member inquired about internships, to which another speaker directed him to their company website. This highlights the audience’s eagerness to engage with the companies represented at the event.

The discussion provided a multifaceted view into Elon Musk’s projects and the future of tech-related fields, touching on space travel, neural networks, and even gaming.

Public Perception of Rocket Launches:

Elon Musk addressed an incident where a rocket launch was misconstrued as a “nuclear alien invasion from North Korea” by the public, leading to panic and overwhelming 9-1-1 lines. He humorously mentioned that for those in the know, it was obvious that the event was a rocket launch. This highlights the need for better public communication surrounding high-profile aerospace activities to prevent misunderstandings.

Falcon Heavy Launch:

Elon provided information on the upcoming Falcon Heavy launch from Cape Canaveral. He specifically talked about the two side boosters that come back and land, which is a part of SpaceX’s reusability efforts. The launch is said to push the envelope with higher dynamic pressure and side load from the boosters, increasing the level of difficulty and risk.

Starship Test Flights:

He also announced that test flights for the Starship vehicle should occur later in the year out of South Texas and Cape Canaveral. Described as a “crazy-looking vehicle,” Starship represents another ambitious project aimed at future space exploration.

Event Closure:

The event ended with thanks to Elon Musk for his participation, emphasizing the rare opportunity to hear from him in such a setting. His presence was considered “once in a lifetime,” indicative of the high level of public and professional interest in his work and announcements.

The segment provided insights into the challenges and developments in the realm of rocket launches, as well as the public perception surrounding these high-stakes, complex events.