🧩 KenKen Solver & Generator

Interactive Java-based application dedicated to the generation, resolution, and analysis of KenKen puzzles using Backtracking algorithms and Layered Architecture.

📊 Overview

This project implements a complete ecosystem for KenKen enthusiasts, combining advanced logic with an intuitive graphical interface.

• Data Processing: Persistence layer in JSON/Text to manage user profiles, rankings, and game states.
• Math Modeling: Efficient solver based on recursive backtracking with pruning to handle complex constraints.
• Visualization: A Java Swing-based GUI providing a seamless user experience for puzzle interaction.

🧮 The Logic: Backtracking Algorithm

The core of the solver is a constraint-satisfaction algorithm. For each cell $(i, j)$ in a board of size $N$, the solver ensures:

1. Row/Column Uniqueness: $x \in {1, \dots, N}$ and $x \notin \text{row}_i, x \notin \text{col}_j$.
2. Arithmetic Constraint: The operation result of the cage matches the target value.

$$Result = f(x_1, x_2, \dots, x_n) = Target$$

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🛠️ Tech Stack

• Backend / Logic: Java 11 (Domain & Persistence layers).
• Frontend / UI: Java Swing, AWT.
• Data Handling: JSON-simple library.
• Build System: Makefile.

🚀 How to Run Locally

1. Clone the repository:

   git clone [https://github.com/alvarorm3008/PROP-FIB.git](https://github.com/alvarorm3008/Kenken-Solver.git)
   cd Kenken-Solver

2. Compile and Launch: The project uses a Makefile to manage dependencies and resource paths automatically. Run:

   make executa

3. Maintenance: To remove compilation files and reset the environment:

   make clean

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📁 Directory Structure

• java-kenken-solver/src: Source code organized by layers (Presentation, Domain, Persistence).
• java-kenken-solver/lib: External dependencies (json-simple-1.1.jar).
• data/: Local database for profiles, rankings, and saved games.
• FONTS/: Visual assets and icons used by the GUI.

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Author: Alvaro Rodriguez, Laia Belaustegui and Carla López Project developed for the PROP course at FIB (UPC)