Battle Drones: A Vibe-Coded RTS Game with Audio Multiplayer

Simon Willison released Battle Drones, an AI-generated Command & Conquer style RTS game built through 12 major iterations with coding agents. The game features 3D models, multiple biomes, random maps, and an innovative local multiplayer mode that synchronizes game state using sound waves via device microphones. This project highlights the evolving capabilities of vibe coding, demonstrating how natural language prompts to LLMs can build complex, fully-functional browser games complete with unique technical feats like acoustic data synchronization. It pushes the boundaries of rapid, AI-assisted software prototyping without traditional backend infrastructure. Developed primarily using Claude Code, the game went through 321 commits and features units like buildings, ground vehicles, and aerial vehicles, along with fog of war and skirmish/last stand modes. The acoustic multiplayer allows two nearby devices within microphone range to play together seamlessly.