Technologies: ReactJS, Express.js, WebSocket, OpenAI API
Repository: alexanderpaolini/competitive-online-coding
Devpost: https://devpost.com/software/competitive-online-programming

Competitive Online Coding is a platform where players compete against each other by solving LeetCode-style coding challenges in real-time. The goal is to be the fastest to solve the problem and win the game!

This project was built using ReactJS for the frontend and Express.js for the backend, enabling smooth user interactions and server-side logic. Real-time communication between players is handled via WebSocket, providing a seamless multiplayer experience. To enhance the game’s dynamic nature, the OpenAI API is integrated, allowing for the generation of coding challenges that change every time players compete.

Key Features

  • ReactJS frontend and Express.js backend to manage user interactions and server-side logic.
  • WebSocket integration for real-time multiplayer communication, ensuring a smooth competitive environment.
  • OpenAI API integration for dynamically generated coding challenges.
  • Multiplayer environment with lobby creation and player matchmaking.

Challenges

  • Developing a multiplayer system in a hackathon setting, which involved rapid prototyping and quick problem-solving.
  • Managing real-time interactions and ensuring smooth gameplay under tight deadlines.
  • Efficient task delegation and collaboration to meet time constraints and deliver a polished product.

Lessons Learned

  • Gained experience with WebSocket for real-time communication in multiplayer games.
  • Integrated third-party APIs (OpenAI) to enhance user experience with dynamically generated content.
  • Improved teamwork and project management skills, learning to collaborate effectively under pressure.