Re: Map-related deja-vu

[Eric McDonald <mcdonald@phy.cmich.edu>]

On Thu, 30 Sep 2004, Lincoln Peters wrote:

> I don't know much about the logic (?) behind generating random numbers. 

There is much logic (determinism) behind computer generation of 
"random" numbers. Most generators should more properly be called 
pseudorandom number gnerators (PRNG's).

To get some "true" randomness, you have to look for sources that 
cannot be [easily] modelled. One example is backscatter of laser 
light off of a swirling fluid; use the coordinates of the 
backscattered rays and, voila, you have something that might pass 
the definition of "random".

> But I did find it rather surprising when the map looked exactly like the
> map I had played on just a few days ago.

As Matthew was saying, the statistical probability of such an 
occurance is higher than one might suspect, __at least with the 
current seeding mechanism.

> I doubt that an algorithm suitable to cryptographic work would be
> necessary for any game, 

Not in the game itself. I was thinking more towards if Xconq ever 
went to a secure client-server model.

> 3. I just got lucky.

Yep. It must have been your "birthday."

Eric