Arc

Arc simulates skirmishes between spaceships controlled by different algorithms. The players upload Java bytecode files that implement acceleration and target functions. Each pair of functions then controls a squadron of spaceships as it maneuvers and fires upon another such squadron. Arc tabulates the outcomes of these skirmishes and allocates an Elo rating to each pair of functions for comparison.

Each skirmish in Arc transpires within an arena. The arena defines the limits of the battlefield, the capabilities of the spaceships, the initial size and distribution of the opposing squadrons and the positions and behavior of any obstacles or areas of interest within the battlefield.

Arc spaceships move in two dimensions. To alter their velocity, they may apply a fixed magnitude of acceleration in any direction.

Each spaceship begins with a number of structure points. The arena determines how many. Each spaceship also has a reservoir of charge, which increases over time up to a maximum of ten points. By expending one point of charge, a spaceship may launch a torpedo in any direction, nominating one spaceship as its target. These torpedoes glide at a constant speed relative to the battlefield. The arena determines how fast. A spaceship struck by a torpedo that targets it loses one structure point and the torpedo dematerialises. A spaceship that comes into contact with a torpedo that doesn't target it remains unharmed, but the torpedo still dematerialises if a friendly ship launched it. A spaceship that loses its last structure point or stumbles into an obstacle explodes in a shower of harmless sparks.

For the website, go to:

http://www.sevenextraeyes.org/arc/