Game of Nim

An interactive implementation of the classic Game of Nim featuring multiple AI difficulties and strategic gameplay mechanics.

Overview

This project implements the Game of Nim, a mathematical strategy game where two players take turns removing marbles from their opponent's pile. The game features:

• Multiple AI difficulty levels (Easy/Hard)
• Interactive console-based gameplay
• Customizable player names
• Turn order randomization or selection
• Real-time game state visualization

Game Rules

1. Each player starts with a randomly generated pile of marbles (20-95)
2. Players take turns removing marbles from their opponent's pile
3. On each turn, a player can remove up to half of the opponent's current marbles (rounded up)
4. The player whose pile gets depleted first wins

Features

• Two AI Difficulty Levels:

  • Easy (Random Strategy): Makes random valid moves
  • Hard (Smart Strategy): Uses strategic pile targeting for more challenging gameplay

• Interactive Gameplay:

  • Custom player names
  • Choice of first player or random selection
  • Real-time marble count display
  • Move validation and error handling

Getting Started

Prerequisites

• Java Development Kit (JDK) 8 or higher
• Java Runtime Environment (JRE)

Installation

1. Clone the repository

git clone https://github.com/[your-username]/game-of-nim.git

2. Navigate to the project directory

cd game-of-nim

3. Compile the Java files

javac Main.java

4. Run the game

java Main

How to Play

1. Launch the game
2. Enter your name and your opponent's name
3. Choose difficulty level (A: Easy or B: Hard)
4. Decide turn order (Random or Choose)
5. Take turns removing marbles from your opponent's pile
6. Try to force your opponent to deplete their pile first

Implementation Details

The project uses:

• Object-Oriented Programming principles
• Interface-based design
• Strategy pattern for AI implementations
• Input validation and error handling
• Resource management mechanics

Project Structure

• Main.java: Game entry point and main loop
• Nim.java: Core game mechanics and state management
• Gamer.java: Interface for player implementations
• Student.java: Human player implementation
• BelowAveragePC.java: Easy AI implementation
• SmartPC.java: Hard AI implementation
• Pile.java: Marble pile management

License

This project is licensed under the MIT License - see the LICENSE file for details