First person implanted with Neuralink claims it enables him to play Civilization VI

Nolan Arbaugh, aged 29 and quadriplegic, states that the brain implant has enabled him to engage in chess and Civilization on his computer through mental control. He expresses gratitude, saying, "I'm incredibly fortunate to be involved in this."

The inaugural recipient of Neuralink's brain implant attests to its transformative impact, enabling him to operate a computer solely through his thoughts. Introduced during a live stream on Wednesday, 29-year-old Nolan Arbaugh, a quadriplegic, volunteered for the implant in January. Since then, he has utilized the implant to remotely maneuver a mouse cursor on his computer.Arbaugh explained that approximately eight years ago, he became unable to use his limbs due to a "freak diving accident." "Consequently," he clarified from his wheelchair, "I am paralyzed from the shoulders down, with no sensation or mobility below my injury."

Consequently, even with modern accessibility controllers, using a computer can be challenging for him. However, during the live stream, Arbaugh demonstrated his ability to now play a game of chess on his laptop by simply tapping into Neuralink's implant.

The functionality of the implant relies on interpreting the user's brain signals and converting them into Bluetooth-enabled remote instructions to operate electronic devices, such as a mouse cursor. Initially, for Arbaugh, this entailed attempting hand movements despite his loss of hand function.

"Subsequently," he elaborated, "it felt natural for me to visualize the cursor's movement. Essentially, it was akin to using the Force on a cursor, allowing me to guide it effortlessly." He drew a comparison to Star Wars to illustrate his experience.

"It's unbelievable, truly. It's incredibly exciting. I feel incredibly fortunate to be involved in this," he exclaimed during the nine-minute live stream. "Every day, it feels like we're uncovering new discoveries."

Thanks to the implant, he has also been enjoying playing the PC game Civilization VI outside of the Neuralink research sessions. This recently led to an eight-hour gaming marathon until his implant required wireless recharging.

"It was incredible. I had essentially resigned myself to not being able to play that game," he remarked, referring to the physical strain he experienced when attempting to play the strategy title before the implant. "I had to contend with various concerns, such as developing pressure sores. But now, I can simply lie in bed and play as much as I want."

The surgery to implant the device proceeded smoothly, necessitating only one day of hospitalization. Nonetheless, Arbaugh acknowledged that the implant hasn't been flawless. "We've encountered some challenges. I don't want individuals to assume this marks the conclusion of the journey. There's still significant work ahead, but it has already made a significant impact on my life," he emphasized.

Neuralink conducted the live stream as the company persists in recruiting human participants for the implant trials.