connect4-ai Python

A python implementation of the connect 4 game with an AI opponent based on the minimax algorithm with alpha-beta pruning.

This implementation is based on Keith Gali's tutorials:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8392NJjj8s0&list=PLWKjhJtqVAblStefaz_YOVpDWqcRScc2s&index=9 and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XpYz-q1lxu8

Contents of repository:

• connect4_no_ai.py is the version of game with pvp and no AI
• conenct4_ai_no_comments.py is the AI version with no comments in the file
• connect4_ai_commented.py is the AI version with detailed comments on implementation

How to run this program

Requirements:

• python 3 direct download: https://www.python.org/downloads/ detailed isntructions: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2nQNsrhaMpA
• numpy: run 'pip install numpy' in the terminal while in any directory
• pygame: run 'pip install pygame' in the terminal while in any directory

Running the game

1. Navigate to the root directory of the project in the terminal
2. Run the command 'python3 '. For example 'python3 conenct4_ai_no_comments.py'

Known issues

• frame rate is low on retina screens
• draw implementation is lacking

Related resources:

• Description of minimax algorithm with alpha-beta pruning: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l-hh51ncgDI
• Description of minimax algorithm usage in board games: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y7AKtWGOPAE