Watch as humanoid robot runs through the forest

Robots usurping humans as the dominant beings on earth has been the stuff of countless movies, TV shows and books over the years. But a new, state-of-the-art robot shows that that science fiction may soon be a reality.

Designed by Boston Dynamics, the Atlas humanoid robot is able to maintain its balance while walking on rocky surfaces and is even able to walk and run just like humans.

"Atlas can walk bipedally leaving the upper limbs free to lift, carry, and manipulate the environment," Boston Dynamics wrote on its website. "In extremely challenging terrain, Atlas is strong and coordinated enough to climb using hands and feet, to pick its way through congested spaces."

Marc Reibert, founder of Boston Dynamics, discussed in a YouTube video the goals and challenges his team faces as they experiment with Atlas in the wild.

"We're interested in getting this robot out into the world," said Boston Dynamics founder Mike Raibert. "Out in the world is just a totally different challenge than the lab. You can't predict what it's going to be like."

The robot had previously been tested in a more controlled environment, but this is the first time it has been let into the wild.

"All kinds of stuff happens out there and we're making pretty good progress on making it so it has mobility within shooting range of yours," Raibert said. "I'm not saying it can do everything that you can do but you can imagine if we keep pushing we'll get there."

Many humans commented on the video, humorously expressing their fears of the humanoid robot.

"Imagine seeing this moving and running while you're camping at night. . .gonna [sic] give people nightmares." commented one YouTube user.

"I, for one, welcome our new android overlords," commented another.