ChessSimulator

Table of Contents

• Project Overview
• Technical Specifications
• Key Features
• System Architecture
• How to Build and Use
• Development Roadmap
• Performance Considerations
• Contributing
• License
• Contact
• Acknowledgments

Project Overview

ChessSimulator is a turn-based 3D chess simulator that delivers an immersive gaming experience using modern graphics technology. This project showcases advanced 3D graphics programming techniques, including the Blinn-Phong shading model, real-time lighting effects, and upcoming networked multiplayer functionality.

More than just a fully functional chess game, this project serves as a comprehensive learning platform demonstrating modern game development techniques, covering everything from low-level graphics APIs to high-level game logic implementation.

Technical Specifications

• Programming Language: C++/HLSL
• Graphics API: DirectX 11
• Target Platform: Microsoft Windows (x64)
• Build System: Visual Studio 2022, JetBrains Rider
• Minimum Requirements: Windows 10, DirectX 11 compatible graphics card

Key Features

Graphics Rendering

• Blinn-Phong Shader: Realistic lighting effects implementation
• Specular Lighting: Reflective lighting simulation
• Gloss Mapping: Surface glossiness control
• Emissive Effects: Self-illuminating effects

Game Features

• Turn-based Game Logic: Complete chess rule implementation
• 3D Board Interface: Intuitive 3D visual presentation
• Piece Animations: Smooth movement animation effects

Technical Features

• XML Data Loading: Currently uses XML format for model data
• OBJ File Support: Planned upgrade to OBJ file format
• TCP Networking: Multiplayer support in development

System Architecture

How to Build and Use

Build Requirements

• Visual Studio 2022 or later
• Windows 10 SDK
• DirectX 11 Runtime

Build Instructions

1. Clone the Repository

   git clone https://github.com/dadavidtseng/ChessSimulator.git
   cd ChessSimulator

2. Open the Project

   • Open the .sln file with Visual Studio 2022
   • Ensure the project is set to x64 platform

3. Build the Project

   • Select Release or Debug mode
   • Press Ctrl+Shift+B to build the project

4. Run the Game

   • Ensure your system supports DirectX 11
   • Execute the generated .exe file

Usage Instructions

• Mouse Controls: Click on pieces to select and move them
• Camera Adjustment: Use mouse drag to adjust viewing angle
• Game Rules: Follows standard chess rules

Development Roadmap

Completed Features

• Basic 3D rendering engine
• Blinn-Phong lighting system
• Basic chess rules implementation
• XML data loading system

In Development

• TCP networked multiplayer
• OBJ file loader
• Advanced lighting effects
• Audio system

Future Plans

• AI opponent functionality
• Replay system
• Custom board themes
• Tournament mode

Performance Considerations

This project has been optimized for performance through several key improvements:

• Batch Rendering: Reduces the number of draw calls
• Frustum Culling: Only renders visible objects
• Memory Management: Efficient resource loading and cleanup
• Shader Optimization: Streamlined HLSL code

Contributing

Contributions are welcome! Please follow these steps:

1. Fork the repository
2. Create a feature branch (git checkout -b feature/AmazingFeature)
3. Commit your changes (git commit -m 'Add some AmazingFeature')
4. Push to the branch (git push origin feature/AmazingFeature)
5. Open a Pull Request

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Last Updated: July 3, 2025