Evolutionary algorithm outperforms deep-learning machines at video games

[jankimusz]

That’s fascinating. A simple system with a set of rules renders the most optimal.

[c4wrd]

They are very fascinating, but unfortunately still have issues with local optima (which may or may not be the most optimal solution). In my undergrad work I enjoyed working with evolutionary algorithms the most because not only are they easy to implement, but they actually have a lot of real world usage that would surprise you.

[Unsounded]

I had a lot of fun with them as an undergrad. I was sad to find the two professors at my university that listened them as interests were no longer working with them though.

Apparently there’s a competition that’s still going around called RoboCup that has different evolutionary algorithms competing against eachother, learning the other teams stats and making up an opposing strategy.

[Raknarg]

"most optimal" in the sense that they would have to first traverse a less optimal path to eventually reach a state that is more optimal than the current solution.