Learning Local Constraints for Reinforcement-Learned Content Generators

Abstract:Constraint-based game content generators that learn local constraints from existing content, such as Wave Function Collapse (WFC), can generate visually satisfying game levels but face challenges in optimizing global properties, such as playability. On the other hand, reinforcement-learning-trained generators can optimize global properties---because such properties can easily be included in reward functions---but the results can be visually dissatisfying. In this paper, we explore ways to combine these methods. Specifically, we constrain the action space of a PCGRL generator with constraints learned by WFC, effectively allowing the PCGRL generator to achieve global properties while being forced to adhere to local constraints. To better analyze how this hybrid content generation method operates, we vary the number and type of inputs, and we test whether to randomly collapse the starting state and exclude rare patterns. While the method is sensitive to hyperparameter tuning, the best of our trained generators produce visually satisfying and playable puzzle-platform game levels---such as Lode Runner levels---with desired global properties.

Artificial Intelligence (cs.AI); Machine Learning (cs.LG)

arXiv:2605.13570 [cs.AI]

(or arXiv:2605.13570v2 [cs.AI] for this version)

https://doi.org/10.48550/arXiv.2605.13570 Focus to learn more arXiv-issued DOI via DataCite

arXivLabs is a framework that allows collaborators to develop and share new arXiv features directly on our website.

Both individuals and organizations that work with arXivLabs have embraced and accepted our values of openness, community, excellence, and user data privacy. arXiv is committed to these values and only works with partners that adhere to them.

Have an idea for a project that will add value for arXiv's community? Learn more about arXivLabs.