Programming Game AI by Example

Master the Art of Game AI and Bring Your Creations to Life!

Ready to build smarter enemies, craft immersive worlds, and create NPCs that think like the real deal? "Programming Game AI by Example" 1st Edition by Mat Buckland is the ultimate hands-on guide to designing and coding game AI that captivates players and elevates your games to award-winning heights. Whether you're a seasoned developer or a coding rookie, this book arms you with battle-tested techniques, real-world examples, and the secrets to building AI systems that feel alive.

Why This Book is a Must-Have:
✅ Learn by Doing: Dive into practical, example-driven projects that teach you to code pathfinding, decision-making, steering behaviors, and more—no theory fluff.
✅ Comprehensive AI Toolbox: Master finite state machines, neural networks, scripting, and advanced algorithms used in AAA titles.
✅ C++ Code Samples: Get battle-ready, customizable code snippets (with explanations) to integrate AI into your game engine.
✅ Solve Real Problems: Tackle challenges like crowd simulation, tactical AI, and dynamic environments with confidence.
✅ From Basics to Pro: Start with foundational concepts and advance to cutting-edge techniques—perfect for all skill levels.

Inside You’ll Discover:

• Pathfinding Mastery: Implement A*, Dijkstra’s algorithm, and navigation meshes to create NPCs that navigate complex worlds.
• Dynamic Behaviors: Design enemies that hunt, flee, strategize, and adapt using state-driven logic and goal-oriented action.
• Steering & Movement: Code lifelike movement for vehicles, animals, or zombies with physics-based steering forces.
• Machine Learning Basics: Dip into neural networks and genetic algorithms to create AI that learns and evolves.
• Optimization Hacks: Boost performance with spatial partitioning, LOD systems, and efficient decision trees.

Who Needs This Book?

• Game developers craving smarter, more immersive AI
• Programmers ready to level up their technical skills
• Students and indie devs building their first game
• AI enthusiasts hungry for practical, game-focused applications
• Anyone tired of NPCs that just stand there!