How do I run c4 locally for development or testing?

Clone the repository, install dependencies with yarn install, and start the local server using yarn start as per the README, then access it at http://localhost:5173/ for real-time changes.

Is the AI in c4 too hard or easy to beat?

The AI uses Minimax with alpha-beta pruning but has a hard-coded evaluation function, so it's strategic but imperfect; skilled players can defeat it, making it suitable for learning rather than unbeatable competition.

Can I use c4 as a base to build my own Connect Four game?

Yes, the TypeScript codebase is clean and educational, ideal for extending, though modifying Canvas graphics or AI logic requires programming skills and might not be straightforward for beginners.

How does c4 compare to other Connect Four implementations like those using React or Vue?

c4 focuses on pure TypeScript and Canvas for a lightweight, algorithm-centric approach, while React/Vue versions might offer easier UI updates and component reuse but with more framework overhead.

Is c4 mobile-friendly or responsive on touchscreens?

It uses click-based controls which work on touchscreens, but the Canvas rendering isn't optimized for mobile responsiveness, and the interface might feel clunky compared to native apps.

How to modify the AI difficulty or add new features in c4?

You need to edit the TypeScript code, such as adjusting the Minimax depth or evaluation function in the core files, as there's no configuration UI; this requires technical knowledge of the codebase.

Open-Awesome

c4

MITTypeScriptv5.1.1

A browser-based Connect Four game with AI opponent using Minimax algorithm and alpha-beta pruning.

Visit Website GitHub

277 stars101 forks0 contributors

What is c4?

c4 is a browser-based implementation of the classic Connect Four game where players compete against an AI opponent. It's built with TypeScript and uses HTML Canvas for rendering, featuring an AI that employs the Minimax algorithm with alpha-beta pruning to make strategic moves.

Target Audience

Web developers and game enthusiasts interested in classic board game implementations, AI algorithms in gaming, or TypeScript/Canvas projects.

Value Proposition

Developers choose c4 for its clean implementation of game AI using Minimax with alpha-beta pruning, educational codebase for learning game development concepts, and polished browser-based gameplay experience.

Overview

🔴🔵 Connect Four game in JS + Canvas

Use Cases

Best For

Learning Minimax algorithm implementations
Studying alpha-beta pruning in game AI
Exploring HTML Canvas game development
Building browser-based board games
TypeScript game programming examples
Educational projects about game algorithms

Not Ideal For

Projects requiring multiplayer or online play capabilities
Teams needing drag-and-drop UI customization without Canvas programming
Applications targeting older browsers without modern JavaScript support
Commercial game development requiring advanced graphics, sound, or monetization features

Pros & Cons

Pros

Educational AI Implementation

Implements Minimax with alpha-beta pruning for strategic gameplay, making it a clear example for learning game AI algorithms, as emphasized in the README's focus on clean code.

TypeScript Codebase

Built with TypeScript, ensuring type safety and maintainability, which is highlighted in the GitHub description for a robust development experience.

Smooth Canvas Rendering

Uses HTML Canvas for graphics, providing smooth visual performance directly in the browser, as noted in the key features for responsive controls.

Browser-Based Accessibility

Runs entirely in modern browsers without plugins, offering an accessible gaming experience with no additional installation required.

Cons

Non-Optimal AI Decisions

The README admits the evaluation function is hard-coded, so the AI may not make the most optimal moves, reducing its effectiveness as a challenging opponent.

Limited UI Flexibility

Canvas rendering requires low-level code changes for visual customization, unlike DOM-based approaches where CSS can easily modify styles.

Basic Feature Set

Lacks common game features like undo/redo, multiple difficulty levels, or sound effects, making it less polished for extended play.

Frequently Asked Questions

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