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ES.268

The Mathematics in Toys and Games

Undergraduate · Historical course

Spring 2010

Topics

  • Theory of impartial games
  • Surreal numbers
  • Dynamic programming and impartial games
  • AI topics (chinese checkers, GO)
  • Connect Four
  • Rubik’s Cube and group theory
  • Probability topics/Monopoly
  • Games on graphs
  • Blackjack/poker/card games (guest lecture)
  • Game of Life
  • NP-completeness
  • Constraint logic
  • Dots and boxes
  • Present projects

Readings

  • Berlekamp, Elwyn R., John H. Conway, and Richard K. Guy. Winning Ways for your Mathematical Plays. Vol 1. Natick, MA: AK Peters, Ltd., 2001. ISBN: 9781568811307.
    Recommended
  • Conway, John H. On Numbers and Games. Natick, MA: AK Peters, Ltd., 2000. ISBN: 9781568811277.
    Recommended
Sources