While some a-life is in reality more a simulation of processes rather than a living thing created artificially it can be a method of researching and understanding complex systems. Living systems epitomize complexity, so much so that some scientists now see complexity as a defining characteristic of life. This ties in to evolution. GAs use the tools of natural selection and genetics. In nature, from the start every molecule responds to whatever it feels in its neighborhood, somehow ultimately forming incredibly complex organizations such as trees, complete ecosystems, and human beings.
Some scientists believe that things inside their computers are actually alive.
What's really scary is that it may be true. Links to Artificial Life Games . It aims to help experimentation with genetics in a puzzle game environment. It is aimed at GCSE Biology students but could be used by anyone as a fairly simple puzzle. It requires a Java enabled browser.