Protocol for a truly distributed coordination among agents in competitive survival video-games

Abstract

Competition games are dynamic and distributed scenarios where agent technology is often applied. In this context, agents form collaborative coalitions that compete for a goal. Inside such type of coalitions of equals, we cannot centralize oordination on a single agent nor allocate tasks on a given agent by default. A protocol is proposed here to work in such conditions. This protocol is similar to a decentralized Contract Net, but initiator agent does not centralize agent task allocation. This problem is solved through a global system rank that selects the most suited agents for the task. This interaction protocol has been implemented and tested under different simulated conditions, showing a high level of success. © 2006 Springer-Verlag France, Paris.