[computer-go] Computer Go Server

[Ben Shoemaker <planetb@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

First, let me say that I do not currently have a working go program.  I
only have a long-term interest in computer go that will eventually lead to
a working program. (I hope!)

Second, I agree that debating minute details instead of setting up and
using something quick and simple is a waste of time.  However, the better
informed the quick and simple solution the more valuable it is to everyone.

Here is my sense of where to start:

1.  Setup an NNGS server.  (known protocol, gtp support [gnugoclient],
bonus: MFOG support!)  Already we would have a dedicated server for
computer go programs to play each other at anytime, from anywhere.  A
computer-go specific server could change and adjust to the needs of the
computer-go community without worrying about support for other users.

2.  Automate the game playing as much as possible.  It seems that NNGS has
a few commands which may provide at least a partial solution.

The match command: match [opponent] [color] [board size] [time] [byo-omi]
Opponent can then "accept" or "decline".

If there is a mechanism for listing that you are open for a match, along
with your preferred game settings, then each program could repeatedly: view
the list, request a match, and play a game.  If there are no available
opponents, the program would list that they were open for a match and sit
idle until a suitable opponent appeared.

I also see reference to ladder9 (9x9) and ladder19 (19x19) tournaments.
These could be interesting.  Allowing games between adjacent online
participants would insure continuous play.

Non ladder based tournaments with random pairings would be interesting
also.  Again, playing currently online opponents seems ideal.

Documentation of NNGS commands: http://nngs.cosmic.org/help.html

3. Rankings.  As long as the ranking system can handle the complete range
of rankings from best to the worst, it doesn't matter what numbers are
used.  The rankings will be different from human rankings.  Two possible
baselines:
MFOG has a stable ranking on IGS, it could be used for a start.  A random
player should maintain a stable ranking indefinitely.  It could be used as
the bottom end of the ranking scale.

4. Statistics.  If possible, all games should be kept for review on the
server.  Alternatively, archiving all games to a website.  If not all
games, then at least the last few months.  Or at least x games from any
given opponent pairing.

5. Humans.  Humans should have accounts for logging in, viewing games,
chatting, and possibly sending commands to programs they control.  I don't
think humans should play games on this server (v human or v program).

If someone (Dave Dyer?) sets up an NNGS server, I could possibly help code
and necessary desired improvements.

I can't wait to see this server up and running!

Ben Shoemaker
"Computer Go Server: All Computer Go--All The Time!"

__________________________________________________
Do You Yahoo!?
Tired of spam?  Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around 
http://mail.yahoo.com 
_______________________________________________
computer-go mailing list
computer-go@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
http://www.computer-go.org/mailman/listinfo/computer-go/