Hassabis recalls his childhood fascination with computers, recalling, 'The amazing thing about computers in those days is you could just start programming them. I’d go with my dad to Foyles, and sit in the computer programming department to learn how to give myself infinite lives in games. I intuitively understood that this was a magical device, which you could unleash your creativity on.' This reflects early visions that propelled him into programming and game development.
Hassabis demonstrated early prodigious talent in chess, stating, 'I became interested in chess at the age of four while watching my father play against his uncle. Two weeks later, I was beating adults at the game. At the age of 13, I reached the rank of chess master.' This showcases how his strategic thinking and analytical skills developed from a young age.
Speaking about his family background, Hassabis said, 'My parents are technophobes. They don’t really like computers. They’re kind of bohemian. My sister and brother both went the artistic route, too. None of them really went in for maths or science… it’s weird, I’m not quite sure where all this came from.' This highlights the uniqueness of his journey, considering his family's artistic inclinations.
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