The AI then generated inputs in the form of Python code to control Mario. Still, Hao says that the game forced each model to “learn” to plan complex maneuvers and develop gameplay strategies.

Since there is no official source code available for Super Mario Bros, ... he wrapped the game’s ROM data into py65emu, a Python library emulating the 6502, the CPU that drives the NES.

Coding is like telling a computer what to do, and in games, it’s how you make stuff happen. Imagine code as a conversation between the creator and the game.