I dont see how symetry affects fairness. If the bots AI is good, regardless of where the others start out it should win. If the starting position can influence results then the AI isnt that great. If you think it isnt fair and it leaves a bit of room for luck, so what, have multiple matches with random layouts and see who wins.
I had two more thoughts today. The matches should be viewed in full 3d with a camera that is easily movable. AND: There should be a "Match.inf" file that contains the following data:
Random seed
Bot names
Bot specifications
Bot AI script file
Bot models
Arena used
This is so others can review a match. I didnt read how you thought of solving this yourself, but its my suggestion anyway.
The random seed should be generated by someone in particular, and then everyone else should have that same seed. This is so we can view the matches on different computers. I know there are rumors (unconfirmed) that same seeds give different results on some very rare occasions, but for the sake of viewing the competition i think it's still better to share them like this instead of have results posted or to record the whole match and post a replay file. Once again, I didnt read how you thought of solving this yourself, but its my suggestion anyway.
I had two more thoughts today. The matches should be viewed in full 3d with a camera that is easily movable. AND: There should be a "Match.inf" file that contains the following data:
Random seed
Bot names
Bot specifications
Bot AI script file
Bot models
Arena used
This is so others can review a match. I didnt read how you thought of solving this yourself, but its my suggestion anyway.
The random seed should be generated by someone in particular, and then everyone else should have that same seed. This is so we can view the matches on different computers. I know there are rumors (unconfirmed) that same seeds give different results on some very rare occasions, but for the sake of viewing the competition i think it's still better to share them like this instead of have results posted or to record the whole match and post a replay file. Once again, I didnt read how you thought of solving this yourself, but its my suggestion anyway.