Boston Dynamics’ latest creation is amazing for at least two reasons. First, it is easily able to traverse a variety of terrains (including hills and stairs), can ‘trot’ over flat surfaces and is able to maintain its balance despite severe disturbances. However, its locomotion is so incredibly animal-like that you quickly start to forget that it is a machine and can briefly think that it is real. Don’t believe me? Watch the video Boston Dynamics posted here. Two researchers kick the unit in order to demonstrate its ability to maintain balance and stay upright. If you have the least little bit of conscience, however, the robot’s reaction to the second kick will simultaneously make you feel sorry for it and feel angry about the mean person who kicked it!