Whack-a-Mole

A sophisticated Java implementation of the classic Whack-a-Mole arcade game, demonstrating advanced Object-Oriented Programming principles, multithreading, and GUI development.

Features

• Multiple Game Objects: Interact with Moles (+100 points), Bonus Moles (+1000 points), and avoid Bombs (-500 points)
• Dynamic Gameplay: Objects appear randomly across a 3x3 grid with varying lifespans
• Time Challenge: 30-second countdown adds urgency to the gameplay
• Persistent High Scores: Score tracking across sessions using Java serialization
• Responsive UI: Clean, colorful Swing-based interface with smooth animations
• Concurrent Design: Separate game engine thread ensures lag-free user experience

How To Play

Setup

# Clone the repository
git clone https://github.com/yourusername/whack-a-mole.git

# Navigate to project directory
cd whack-a-mole

# Compile the project
javac -d bin src/**/*.java

# Run the game
java -cp bin game.ui.GameUI

1. Start the Game: Run the application to begin
2. Click to Whack: Click on objects as they appear from holes

🐹 Mole: Click for +100 points
💎 Bonus Mole: Click quickly for +1000 points (appears for 2 seconds)
💣 Bomb: Avoid! Costs -500 points if clicked

3. Beat the Clock: Score as many points as possible before time runs out
4. Track Progress: View your score and remaining time at the top of the screen
5. Compete: Try to beat the high score displayed on the game-over screen

Project Structure

UML Diagram

Technical Documentation

Screenshots

Game Screen

Active gameplay showing moles, bombs, and bonus moles appearing in the grid

Game Over Screen

End-game summary displaying final score and high score