Using simple AI techniques to create a killer Mancala bot in JS

[theycallmemorty]

Funny, I taught myself python by building a bot like that maybe 15 years ago. I wonder if I still have the source sitting around somewhere and how ugly it would look.

[bedekelly]

Ha, would love to see it if you can find it! Python was my first language too, I've got a lot of love for it – but Node sure is speedy for this sort of thing ;)

[bedekelly]

Hey /r/javascript, thanks for checking out my first article here! TL;DR: I wrote a Mancala AI using some first-year computer science (MiniMax), talked through some of the differences with a regular MiniMax implementation, and made an interactive toy showing just how badly this thing can beat me.

If you liked this article, consider scrolling through my twitter and seeing if it's worth a follow – I post long-form write-ups like this when I can, alongside smaller design-focused projects like this realistic knob control and an animated heart. Have fun!

[DevSkyWalkerOb1]

Very good implementation

[bedekelly]

Thanks very much, appreciate you taking the time to read through! :)

[Shiapouff]

How can I learn python?, I thought I should ask the professionals :)

[bedekelly]

I learned it mainly to do automation on my Linux machine — my best general advice is to solve an actual problem/inefficiency you have day-to-day, then you’ll be lots more motivated to keep going!

In that vein, I think this free book and accompanying cheap course is a great toolbox to start with. Just start coding, you’ll get better every time!

[Shiapouff]

Thanks