What Is Pure Strategy in Game Theory Example?
Game theory is a branch of mathematics that deals with the study of conflict and cooperation between individuals, groups, or organizations. It is used to analyze decision-making in games where the outcome depends on the actions of multiple players.
Pure Strategy
Pure strategy is a strategy that involves making a single choice that is not based on chance or probability. It is a strategy that a player follows consistently throughout the game, regardless of what the other players do.
In game theory, there are two types of strategies: pure and mixed strategies. A pure strategy is one where a player chooses one option from all available options, while a mixed strategy involves selecting different options with varying probabilities.
Examples of Pure Strategy
Consider the classic example of rock-paper-scissors. The pure strategy for this game would be to always choose rock, paper, or scissors regardless of what your opponent does.
If you always choose rock, your opponent can counter this by choosing paper every time and winning every round. However, if you choose rock 33% of the time, paper 33% of the time, and scissors 33% of the time, your opponent will have a much harder time predicting your moves.
Another example would be tic-tac-toe. The pure strategy for this game would be to always place your symbol in the same position every time.
If you always place your symbol in the center square, your opponent can easily block you by placing their symbol around it. However, if you vary your moves and use different patterns each time you play, it becomes much harder for your opponent to predict what you will do next.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Pure Strategy
One advantage of pure strategy is that it is easy to understand and implement. Players don’t have to worry about probabilities or complex calculations. They simply choose one option and stick with it.
However, a disadvantage of pure strategy is that it can be predictable. If all players use the same pure strategy, the game can become repetitive and boring. Additionally, if a player’s pure strategy is discovered by their opponents, they may be at a disadvantage.
- Advantages:
- Easy to understand and implement
- Consistent
- Disadvantages:
- Predictable
- Repetitive and boring if all players use the same strategy
- May put a player at a disadvantage if their strategy is discovered by opponents
Conclusion
Pure strategy in game theory example involves making a single choice that is consistent throughout the game. While this strategy has its advantages, such as being easy to understand and consistent, it can also be predictable and put a player at a disadvantage if their opponents discover their strategy. It is important for players to vary their strategies and not rely solely on pure strategies to succeed in games.