This concept explores an unconventional approach to addressing concerns about the rapid advancement of artificial general intelligence (AGI). The core idea involves creating a distraction specifically designed to capture the attention of the highly intelligent individuals working on AGI, potentially slowing development to allow more time for safety research.

The Problem and Its Significance

The development of AGI is progressing quickly, with some researchers believing we need more time to ensure it can be made safe. One potential way to slow this progress could be through interventions that reduce the productivity of key researchers. While direct methods like regulation or sabotage raise serious ethical concerns, there might be indirect approaches that operate by providing compelling alternatives to AGI work.

Game Design for a Unique Audience

The proposed solution involves developing a video game meticulously crafted to appeal to high-IQ individuals with flexible ethical boundaries - characteristics sometimes found among cutting-edge AI researchers. Instead of typical game elements, it would focus on:

• Complex systems manipulation requiring advanced reasoning
• Morally ambiguous decision points with rewarding outcomes
• Emergent strategies that evolve based on player interactions

By offering intellectual stimulation with quicker rewards than AGI research, the game could potentially divert some researchers' attention and time. Its effectiveness would depend on being able to authentically engage this specific demographic at a deep psychological level.

Implementation Considerations

Testing this concept might begin with a minimal version focused on one compelling game mechanic. Key steps could include:

1. Studying what makes games addictive for highly intelligent players
2. Developing a prototype with strong initial engagement
3. Targeted testing with subjects matching the desired profile
4. Strategic placement near major research centers

The game might incorporate built-in usage limiters to address ethical concerns, positioning itself as an intellectual challenge rather than an overt distraction tool.

While this approach raises many ethical questions about intentionally influencing researchers' behavior, it presents an interesting case study in how targeted entertainment products might indirectly affect technological progress trajectories.