How would one program a borg to play ToME?

[jenx]

I've always enjoyed borgs for *band games. What would be required to program one for ToME? I probably don't have the programming skills to write one, but I'm still interested. I think the first step is to work out the architecture required to run a borg, and then we can work out the decision making algorithms to progress through the game.

Probably best to start with a "simple" class, like archer.

[lukep]

I'd modify the tactical AI, adding resting and autoexplore. You would also need to add the zone order, item selection, and talent choices (which could be from the templates?)

Other things you may want to do:
- predict enemy behavior
- make if/else statements to make more powerful talent choices (eg. for replacing normal "shoot" talent: check stamina, if not high enough, use relaxed shot. next choice is Steady shot, then double, then crippling...)

[SageAcrin]

If you want to make it successful, your best bet is probably something like a Summoner. Simple to make a build plan for, skills have simple execution often, and you can do things like have it fire summons around corners for a while before rounding every corner for increased likelyhood of survival.

Alchemist might be good as an option, too, and it's probably a lot simpler to code.

[Sirrocco]

The real problem with TOME-borg is TOME's severe anti-grinding stance. The Angband/Zangband/etc borgs lean on computational patience a lot, and spend even more time grinding than normal ang/zang players. This, and a willingness to simply cut and run and respawn the dungeon level, is how they make up for being an algorithm rather than a person. Admittedly, the bit where they never get bored and stupid would still help, but I don't think it would be anything like enough.

[HousePet]

Assimilate one of those players who can win the game on Insane...