Genetic Algorithms vs Garden Creatures

Genetic algorithms are one of the search and optimisation methods. The aim of optimisation is to increase efficiency in reaching a certain optimal value. Genetic algorithms are based on the mechanisms of natural selection and heredity. The basic genetic algorithm is built from three operations: reproduction, crossing, and mutation. Genetic algorithms operate on populations of coding sequences and use random selection rules to search for the global optimal value. However, these random rules are defined to give the appropriate direction of the search (through various selection mechanisms or scaling of fitness functions). This basic procedure is enhanced by certain genetic manipulations, such as those seen in nature. They include the mechanisms of dominance, diploidy, inversion, and other reconfiguration mechanisms that occur at the chromosome level. Users can design textual or graphical scaling patterns for the fitness function and then use them in simulations. The application also provides a preliminary analysis of statistical data concerning the distribution of the fitness function in the population. The program allows the user to compare non-random procedures (e.g. scaling of fitness functions) by using the same pseudorandom sequence (for procedures requiring randomization, such as selection, etc.) in successive simulations. In order to better visualize the genetic processes taking place during the simulation, some of them are presented to the user using animations. Additionally, some of the data obtained from simulations can be saved and shared.

Garden Creatures is an art experience to immerse players in the surreal, symbolic, and fantastical worlds of Hieronymus Bosch’s paintings. The experience combines exploration and artistic puzzles based on optical color mixing and figure rotation, offering a deep dive into the late medieval artist’s complex, thought-provoking works. Each level is inspired by Bosch’s masterpiece The Garden of Earthly Delights, with players exploring strange landscapes, interacting with characters, solving puzzles, and striving to bring color back to a world created by Bosch. The plot revolves around King Bird, a quirky monster who escaped the painting and stole the colors. As a player, you must follow the thief through mysterious, surreal places and help restore color to the painting! Features: • Richly Detailed, Mindful Experience Handcrafted visuals interpret the style of Bosch’s triptych. The aesthetics and pace create a calming, mindful environment that promotes focus and peaceful learning, blending art with fun. • Five Distinctive Levels Each level captures the bizarre and fantastical nature of Bosch's work, from dreamlike creatures to fantastical landscapes, while adapting them to fit modern audience's sensitivity. • Clever, Yet Accessible Puzzles Puzzles involve reconstructing elements of Bosch's work to progress in the experience, encouraging absorbing art through discovery. Recreating images from transparent color-field puzzle pieces requires planning ahead and breaking tasks into smaller steps. • Supporting Artistic Skills Development The puzzles are designed to enhance understanding of color theory through color mixing, as well as the painting process (e.g., starting with the background and finishing with the details). • Accessible Characters communicate using pictograms instead of typical dialogue, making the title accessible to a wider audience while introducing visual modes of communication. --- Note: Garden Creatures does not contain advertising, in-app purchases, or any other downloadable content.