Project Abstract: Sudoku Game

Abstract

This project involves creating an interactive Sudoku game using C++. The main objective is to

provide a

user-friendly and educational tool for Sudoku enthusiasts. The game enables users to solve a 9x9

Sudoku

puzzle by filling in missing numbers, while automatically verifying moves for correctness. The game

incorporates key elements of algorithmic problem-solving, particularly the backtracking algorithm,

which is used to validate and solve the puzzle. This approach ensures that players can enjoy the

game

while learning about logical and algorithmic problem-solving.

1. Introduction

Sudoku is a popular logic-based puzzle that requires filling a 9x9 grid so that each row, column, and

3x3 subgrid contains all numbers from 1 to 9. This project aims to replicate this classic puzzle in

a C++ console-based game format. The game provides an interactive interface for players to solve a

predefined puzzle, and it verifies each entry to maintain the game's validity. This project serves

as an exploration of algorithmic techniques, specifically backtracking, and offers an engaging way

to improve logical skills through gameplay.

2. System Requirements

The Sudoku game requires the following system specifications:

- **Software Requirements**:

- Operating System: Windows, macOS, or Linux.

- C++ Compiler (such as GCC, MSVC, or Clang).

- Console environment (for running and interacting with the game).

3. System Design

The Sudoku game is designed with a modular approach, divided into functional components:

- **Puzzle Solver (Backtracking)**: The backtracking algorithm checks possible values for each

empty

cell while ensuring the Sudoku constraints are met. If a solution is found, it completes the puzzle;

otherwise, it backtracks to try different values.

- **Input Validator**: Verifies user inputs to ensure they are within the valid range (1-9) and that

the same number is not duplicated in the same row, column, or 3x3 subgrid.

- **Game Display**: Presents the Sudoku grid in a structured format, enhancing readability and

player

interaction.

- **Main Game Loop**: Continuously allows user inputs until the puzzle is solved or the player

requests

the solution.

These components work together to provide an interactive and logically robust Sudoku game.

4. Code Implementation
The core components of the code include:

1. **isSafe Function**: This function verifies whether placing a specific number at a given cell

in the grid would maintain the Sudoku rules.

2. **solveSudoku Function**: A recursive function implementing the backtracking algorithm to

attempt filling each cell, ultimately solving the puzzle if possible.

3. **printBoard Function**: Displays the current state of the puzzle in a visually clear format.

4. **Main Game Loop**: Allows the player to interact with the game, input values, and request

the solution if they are unable to complete the puzzle.

Each of these functions contributes to the user experience, ensuring the game is both challenging

and educational.

5. Testing and Validation

To ensure functionality, the following tests were conducted:

- **Unit Testing**: Each function was tested individually to confirm it behaved as expected.

- **Integration Testing**: The functions were combined, and the game was run to ensure smooth

interaction among components.

- **User Testing**: Simulated gameplay was performed to ensure user inputs were validated and

appropriate feedback was provided.

Testing confirms that the game correctly enforces Sudoku rules and offers a smooth user

experience.
6. Challenges and Limitations

Challenges encountered include:

1. **Efficient Validation**: Ensuring that each input meets Sudoku constraints required optimizing

the validation functions.

2. **User Interaction**: Creating a user-friendly console display and managing real-time input

validation.

Limitations include the absence of a graphical interface and the requirement to manually input

values

through the console.

7. Recommendations for Future Development

To enhance the game's functionality and accessibility, the following improvements are suggested:

- **Graphical Interface**: Develop a GUI to make the game more user-friendly and visually

engaging.

- **Additional Difficulty Levels**: Incorporate varying difficulty levels by adjusting the

number of pre-filled cells.

- **Hint System**: Add a feature that provides hints or tips for players who are stuck.

These features would make the game more appealing and accessible to a broader audience.

8. Conclusion
The Sudoku game project successfully demonstrates the application of algorithmic problem-solving

in

game development. Through C++ programming, the project replicates a functional Sudoku puzzle

game

that offers both an interactive experience and an educational tool. This project serves as a strong

foundation for future enhancements, emphasizing modular design and algorithmic efficiency.