Playing one of the most difficult action games without touching a keyboard, mouse or controller seemed until recently like something out of science fiction, but this is what was actually demonstrated at the 2026 World Artificial Intelligence Conference in Shanghai, where visitors were able to control the character in "Black Myth: Wukong" using only brain signals.

The experiment relied on a non-invasive brain-computer interface, meaning it does not require implanting a chip into the brain or undergoing surgery, where the user wears a lightweight cap equipped with electroencephalography sensors that capture electrical activity through the scalp. The system then analyzes the signals and converts them into in-game commands such as movement or attack.

But the phrase "playing with your thoughts" or "with your brain" needs some clarification, because the device does not read what a person is thinking in a direct sense, nor does it know for example that the player wants to jump just because they imagine jumping.

The technology used is based on what is known as a visual stimulus response at a fixed frequency. Goals or areas flash on the screen with different frequencies, and when the player focuses their gaze on one of them, the brain generates an electrical pattern associated with that frequency. The device captures this pattern and converts it into the corresponding command in the game.

According to a report from "PC Gamer", which specializes in digital games, the system can translate some of these signals into commands within about 200 milliseconds. Each user needs about 5 minutes of calibration before starting the experience.

Calibration helps the device recognize the specific signals of the person wearing it because the patterns of electrical activity are not exactly the same among users.

Choosing "Black Myth: Wukong" was not easy either. The game, developed by Chinese company "Game Science", relies on quick confrontations and timing to dodge attacks, execute strikes, and use abilities at the right moment. It sold more than 10 million copies in the first three days of its release and became one of the most prominent Chinese games globally. Therefore, running it with a brain-computer interface was an eye-catching test, even if the current experience is far from the level of control provided by a traditional gaming console.

The videos circulating do not mean that the player can currently play in the same way as someone using a controller, as the system can only read a limited set of commands while "Black Myth: Wukong" requires speed and accuracy to execute a large series of movements. Therefore, this demonstration is proof of what technology can do rather than an actual alternative to current controllers.

Despite this activity, there are challenges related to this technology. For example, its main advantage is that it works outside the head, making it easier to experiment with and more suitable for public environments. However, this also means that the signals obtained are weaker and less accurate than those that can be captured directly from the brain.

Relying on flashing light targets also imposes other limitations. The technology requires continuous visual focus, which may not be suitable for everyone. In addition, the flashing lights could pose a problem for people with light sensitivity or certain types of epilepsy.

Despite these limitations, the scene in Shanghai reveals how far the technology has come. Years ago, talking about controlling a game just by brain signals was often associated with medical laboratories. Now, however, the technology is available to visitors at an exhibition, can be worn within minutes and used to play a well-known commercial game.