Each pixel represents a "cell" which can either be alive or dead. Each cell has "neighbors" which are just the 8 surrounding cells. This simulation works by first assigning each pixel a state of either dead or alive. The simulation then proceeds by following these four rules:
- Any live cell with fewer than two live neighbors dies, as if caused by underpopulation
- Any live cell with two or three live neighbors lives on to the next generation.
- Any live cell with more than three live neighbors dies, as if by overpopulation.
- Any dead cell with exactly three live neighbors becomes a live cell, as if by reproduction.