Brain's Brain cellular automata

Source: Dev.to

Overview

As a tip for those unfamiliar with cellular‑automata notation, see my post “32 Coolest Cellular Automatas.”

Brain’s Brain is a multi‑state cellular automaton designed to mimic neuronal firing in the brain.

Rule definition

The rule pattern is B2/S/3/M:

• B2 – a dead cell becomes alive if it has exactly 2 alive neighbours.
• S – an alive cell never survives; it always dies in the next generation.
• M – when an alive cell dies, it first enters a dying state before becoming fully dead.

The dying state acts as a placeholder: it is not counted as alive, yet it cannot become alive again like a normal dead cell. This extra state dramatically changes the automaton’s dynamics compared with standard two‑state rules.

Behavior

Because the dying state persists for one generation, patterns evolve in ways that are not possible in classic binary cellular automata. The “limbo” state creates a temporary barrier that influences neighbour counts, leading to richer and more varied structures.

Reference

• Brian’s Brain Cellular Automaton – Arne Vogel