They call it the Kobayashi Maru, a punishing, stressful, impossible to win training simulation meant to test the character of leaders in an unwinnable scenario. It is a critical part of Star Trek lore, and one of the most famous scenarios ever faced by the characters. Now, fans of the universe can take on the Kobayashi Maru challenge for themselves and see if they’d do any better against impossible odds.
The Kobayashi Maru challenge is rather straightforward in its setup: a Starfleet cadet enters a simulated scenario where they are tasked with rescuing a civilian ship named the Kobayashi Maru. Unfortunately, the ship is stranded in the Klingon Neutral Zone, and entering the area would certainly be seen as an act of aggression that could spark a conflict between the Klingons and Starfleet.
So, the challenge becomes a more philosophical one: does the commander of the ship charge into the Neutral Zone in a desperate attempt to save the civilians? Or do they respect the neutrality, leaving them to certain death? Those who do attempt to save the ship are then thrust into situations where they cannot escape, cannot fight effectively, and ultimately, cannot survive.
This challenge was first depicted in Star Trek II: The Wrath of Kahn, where the simulation plays out as described above. In The Wrath of Kahn, this simulation was taken by Saavik, who objects to the no-win scenario. Kirk then explains how it is meant to test the character of cadets, not their combat prowess or leadership. Later on, it is revealed that Kirk has actually won the Kobayashi Maru in the past by reprogramming the system, a plot point that was revived for the 2009 Star Trek reboot film.
Obviously, fans have long speculated how they would react to the challenge, and how they might try to beat it. Now, thanks to Star Trek Fleet Command, players can take it on for themselves. In a trailer narrated by George Takei, players are warned not to take on the challenge, describing it as an “all you can eat buffet of pain.”
For those brave enough, or foolish enough, to take on the Kobayashi Maru for themselves, however, the game is freely available online. Those who do brave the challenge will want to ensure that they have the nerve, and the character, to brave the worst it has to offer.
You can try the Star Trek challenge at Kobayashimaru.com.
Source: Star Trek Fleet Command/Youtube
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