A Scrabble Computer Player

Supervisor: Roy Crole (rlc3)

Prerequisites

Ability to programme in Java, C++ or a similar langauge.

Aims of Project

The aim is to write a computer program that can play scrabble against a human player, and perhaps against other machines.

Challenges presented by the project

The key challenges are to understand suitable game playing algorithms; and methods of dictionary storage. This will require some algorithms theory, and some simple automata minimalisation (for the dictionary). The GUI will also require careful thought if it is to be a good one. Note that although many people can produce adequate players, implementing one of high quality is not as easy as one might think.

Learning Outcomes

• You will understand the game of scrabble in detail.
• You will be able to describe, and code, efficient game playing algorithms.
• You will be able to describe, and code, efficient dictionary storage and access systems.
• You will be able to produce good GUIs for this and similar games.
  Nature of End-Product
• A computer program that can play scrabble, with a very good user interface, and efficient playing strategy.

Project Timetable

Semester One
literature and product survey; understanding and selection of playing algorithms; research into dictionaries; a prototype system which can play a very simplified game of scrabble; specification and design of the final system.

Semester Two
Completion of design; implementation of game; simple user manual; final report.

References

References can be obtained from Dr. Roy Crole.