In 1970, John Conway came up with a 1-player game called Game of Life. The Game of Life is a mathematical game that simulates 'colonies' that grow or die based on how crowded or lonely they are and is known for the way it creates a beautiful organic display out of randomness.

Here is a design for a simple electronic project that plays Conway's Game of Life. Make one kit and keep it on your desk, or attach multiple kit modules together to create a large display.

Originally created by Dropout Design, this revision adds a few extra features. The kit is very easy to make and an excellent first electronics/soldering project. It is perfect for workshops since at the end everyone can connect their completed module together.

The animated GIF above shows 4 modules connected together. Each kit comes unassembled and includes all parts necessary for one module.

Features:

• Each kit displays a 4x4 grid (16 LEDs)
• Connect as many kits as youd like, in any configuration, to create a larger game board
• Runs off of 2 AA batteries (not included), but can be easily modified to run off of USB or wall-wart power
• On/Off button to save power, also for resetting the display
• Automatically resets if the colony has died or stagnated (regeneration)
• Backwards compatible with older versions

There's tons more to read about the project, including directions at the website!