randomSource

A strategist class uses this random source when you call the bestMoveForActivePlayer() method. Different strategist classes use randomization in different ways:

• A deterministic strategy, such as that of the GKMinmaxStrategist class, can reach states where multiple moves are rated the most desirable. In such cases, the strategist can randomly choose from among the best possible moves, making the behavior of a computer-controlled player appear more natural and unpredictable.

  If this property is set to nil (the default), the GKMinmaxStrategist class method does not randomize—that is, when repeatedly presented with the same set of equally-optimal moves, the bestMoveForActivePlayer() method always makes the same choice.

• A probabilistic strategy, such as that of the GKMonteCarloStrategist class, requires a random source in order to randomly explore the set of possible moves.

  If this property is set to nil (the default), the GKMonteCarloStrategist class throws an exception when you call the bestMoveForActivePlayer() method.

A randomizer is any object that implements the GKRandom protocol, such as the GKRandomSource and GKRandomDistribution classes and their subclasses. Choosing a separate randomizer instance from that used by other systems in your game ensures that the randomization of moves is independent; that is, the strategist's selection of moves does not depend on your game’s other uses of randomization APIs. You can also use randomizer classes to reproduce a specific sequence of random actions for debugging, and to fine-tune the randomization behavior.