UNC Pokerbots

Get ready for the Pokerbots 2024-2025 season!

What is Pokerbots?

UNC Pokerbots is a computerized poker tournament. Teams will spend the season programming a completely autonomous pokerbot which competes against other bots in no-limit texas hold 'em.

Competitors must learn and apply concepts in mathematics, computer science, and economics not normally developed together in academic settings in order to conquer their opponents and emerge victorious.

This year marks the first season of UNC Pokerbots. The competition will be offering attention from top companies, cash prizes, and other goodies. This season challenge yourself to implement the most effective pokerbot and become our first ever UNC Pokerbots champion!

FAQ

Why Poker?

As a game of incomplete information and uncertainty, poker is a prime application of the game theory concepts and decision making skills essential to trading. While traders make risk decisions based on the limited information they get from the markets, poker players make decisions based on hidden information as well, taking into account factors such as expected value and probability distributions.

I thought this was a programming competition? What language is it in?

It is! To build a working pokerbot only requires both critical thinking ability and an eagerness to learn. However, an understanding of machine learning, algorithms, and data science can go a long way towards creating an advanced pokerbot. Competitiors can code in their choice of Python, Java, or C++.

Machine learning? Algorithms? Exactly how much coding experience is necessary?

We welcome students with all levels of programming experience. Nevertheless, some previous coding experience would certainly be helpful. Although not necessary, we recommend you have at least one team member with some programming experience.

What form of poker will it be?

The poker format will be based on No Limit Texas Hold 'em with full details being released at the start of the competition.

How many members can make up a team?

Teams may be composed of 1-4 students.

How do I register?

Do I have to be a UNC student to participate?

No, you do not have to be a UNC student to participate- you can also be a Duke or NCSU student. If you are from none of these three schools, you can still sign up for our mailing list and we will notify you as soon as you are eligible to compete.

How much time will it take to make a pokerbot?

Creating a functioning pokerbot takes no time at all. However, creating a competitive and strategic pokerbot will require more effort and experimentation. Ultimately, the more you put into your pokerbot, the more value you will receive from this competition!

How can I get this at my school?

If you'd like to run a pokerbots competition for your own school contact us at [email protected]. Official partner schools will be invited to participate in the inter-school league!