AI algorithm for “RaceTrack” game

Question

does anyone know (or can suggest) a good algorithm for an AI for the RaceTrack pencil-paper game?

since you have 9 possible choices in each step and you need to look

Answer 1

While it won't be immediately applicable to RaceTrack, you may be able to learn something from the A* path-finding algorithm. It's used in a lot of games to help the AI figure out how to get from point A to point B as quickly as possible.

Answer 2

there are a few algorithms known in chess like alpha-beta pruning, move ordering etc.. maybe you have better luck if you search in chess context.

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alpha beta, strategy

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Edit: Those path finding algorithms only work if you don't have additional rules and conditions. For example if you also have velocity and centripetal forces you're out of luck. If you don't have those advanced conditions you're better off with a simple path finding algorithm as stated in other answers.