Dynamic Logic Programming and world state evaluation in computer games

In this paper we propose a framework for world state evaluation in computer games based on Dynamic Logic Programming (DynLoP). Computer games (especially role-playing and adventure games) offer an exact, coherent and relatively small and simple world description and are usually built on game engines, which provide scripting capabilities. A common task of game scripting involves evaluation of the world state in a game, usually to find out whether a player has already completed a task (game quest). In this paper we describe a framework for building a Dynamic Logic Program based on a description of a game world, quests and events in the game. Stable models of such a program are then used to determine the status of a quest or the whole game. Because of declarative nature of DynLoP, its use allows easier and simpler queries and quest (task) characterization than current imperative scripting languages used in game engines. Furthermore, the world of a computer game provides an excellent environment for evaluation of DynLoP and its various semantics.