Creating a Text-Based Detectives and Thieves Simulation Game in C

In this guide, we will explore the fascinating world of detectives and thieves, where strategy, quick thinking, and a touch of luck can make all the difference. In this immersive text-based simulation game, you will find yourself deeply entrenched in a realm of intrigue, as skilled detectives relentlessly pursue a cunning thief through a labyrinth of interconnected cities and winding roads. Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to take the reins and steer the movements of these agents, unravel the enigma, and ensure that justice prevails as you strive to capture the elusive thief. Get ready to test your detective skills, adapt to unexpected challenges, and experience the thrill of a high-stakes chase in the world of Detectives and Thieves!

Crafting a Thrilling C-Based Detectives and Thieves Simulation

Explore our comprehensive guide on building a Detectives and Thieves game in C. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned programmer, this resource offers step-by-step instructions to create an engaging text-based game. Dive into the world of game development as you master C programming and develop your detective skills. Need help with your C assignment? This guide provides valuable insights to enhance your programming skills and tackle your assignments with confidence. Whether it's coding or creating games, we're here to support your learning journey.

Block 1 - Header Includes

```c #include < assert.h> #include < stdbool.h> #include < stdio.h> #include < stdlib.h> #include < string.h> #include < time.h> #include "Agent.h" #include "Map.h" ```

This block includes necessary header files, which provide standard input and output functionality, data types like boolean (`bool`), and also the custom header files `Agent.h` and `Map.h`, which define structures and functions related to agents and maps in the game.

Block 2 - Constants and Data Structures

```c #define MAX_LINE 100 #define MAX_CITY_NAME 30 #define MAX_AGENT_NAME 30 #define NUM_DETECTIVES 4 #define THIEF 0 #define D1 1 #define D2 2 #define D3 3 #define D4 4 #define CONTINUE 0 #define WIN -1 #define LOSE -2 #define OVER -3 typedef struct state { Map map; bool *informants; Agent agents[NUM_DETECTIVES + 1]; int getaway; int cycle; int maxCycles; int status; } State; ```

This block defines various constants and data structures, including maximum line length, maximum city and agent name lengths, the number of detectives, special agent IDs, game status constants, and the `State` struct. The `State` struct stores game state information, such as the map, informants, agents, getaway location, current cycle, maximum cycles, and game status.

Block 3 - Function Declarations

```c static void readMap(char *filename, State *s); static void readAgents(char *filename, State *s); static void displayGameState(State *s); static int checkGameState(State *s); static bool checkWin(State *s); static bool checkLose(State *s); static void run(State *s); static void step(State *s); static void displayStats(State *s); static void freeResources(State *s); ```

This block declares function prototypes for various functions used in the program. These functions are responsible for reading data, managing game state, running the game, and displaying information.

Block 4 - `main` Function

```c #include <stdio.h> int main(int argc, char *argv[]) { // Check the number of command-line arguments if (argc &lt; 4 || argc &gt; 5) { printf("Usage: %s <city data="" file=""> <agent data="" file=""> <cycles> [seed]\n", argv[0]); return 1; // Exit with an error code } // Your game logic goes here return 0; // Exit with a success code } ```

The `main` function is the entry point of the program. It parses command-line arguments, initializes the game state, reads map and agent data from files, and then starts the game loop. The user can input commands during the game.

Blocks 5-12 - Function Definitions

The following blocks define the implementation of the functions declared earlier in Block 3. Each function is responsible for specific tasks related to the game, such as reading map and agent data, managing game state, running the game, and displaying information.

Block 13 - Freeing Resources

```c static void freeResources(State *s) { if (s != NULL) { // Free resources for each agent for (int i = 0; i <= NUM_DETECTIVES; i++) { AgentFree(s->agents[i]); } // Free the informants array free(s->informants); // Free the map MapFree(s->map); } } ```

This block defines a function to release resources used in the game, including agents and the map. It is called at the end of the game or when an early exit condition is met.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Detectives and Thieves is a captivating text-based simulation game that places you at the center of an intense cat-and-mouse chase between detectives and a cunning thief. With strategic decision-making, careful planning, and a dash of luck, players must navigate through a network of cities and roads, making every move count. This thrilling adventure offers a chance to hone your detective skills, adapt to unexpected twists, and experience the excitement of a high-stakes pursuit. Get ready to immerse yourself in this world of intrigue and embark on an exhilarating journey where justice is in your hands.