Beatcode is a playful, competitive coding platform built on top of LeetCode that introduces the unique twist of forcing your opponent to code in a chosen IDE theme, including the dreaded light mode. Users can challenge friends or random opponents to coding battles on LeetCode problems, wagering "Beatcoins" (a virtual currency) on the outcome. The winner takes all, adding a layer of playful stakes to the coding challenge. Beatcode also tracks various stats, including win streaks and preferred programming languages, further gamifying the experience. Ultimately, it offers a fun, social way to practice coding skills and engage with the LeetCode problem set.
Robocode is a programming game where you code robot tanks in Java or .NET to battle against each other in a real-time arena. Robots are programmed with artificial intelligence to strategize, move, target, and fire upon opponents. The platform provides a complete development environment with a custom robot editor, compiler, debugger, and battle simulator. Robocode is designed to be educational and entertaining, allowing programmers of all skill levels to improve their coding abilities while enjoying competitive robot combat. It's free and open-source, offering a simple API and a wealth of documentation to help get started.
HN users fondly recall Robocode as a fun and educational tool for learning Java, programming concepts, and even AI basics. Several commenters share nostalgic stories of playing it in school or using it for programming competitions. Some lament its age and lack of modern features, suggesting updates like better graphics or web integration could revitalize it. Others highlight the continuing relevance of its core mechanics and the existence of active communities still engaging with Robocode. The educational value is consistently praised, with many suggesting its potential for teaching children programming in an engaging way. There's also discussion of alternative robot combat simulators and the challenges of updating older Java codebases.
Summary of Comments ( 26 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43111417
Hacker News commenters generally found the "light mode only" aspect of Beatcode to be a petty and ultimately pointless feature, missing the larger point of collaborative coding platforms. Some pointed out that forcing a theme upon users is a poor design choice overall, while others questioned the actual effectiveness of such a feature in preventing cheating, suggesting more robust solutions like screen recording or proctoring software would be more appropriate. A few appreciated the humorous intent, but the prevailing sentiment was that the feature was more annoying than useful. Several commenters also discussed alternative platforms and approaches for collaborative coding practice and interview preparation.
The Hacker News post titled "LeetCode but You Can Force People to Code in Light Mode >:)" (linking to beatcode.dev) has several comments discussing the light/dark mode debate, the nature of the project itself, and some technical aspects.
Several commenters find the premise of forcing light mode on others humorous, with some expressing mock outrage or appreciating the "evil" nature of the idea. This sentiment reflects the common, often strong preference for dark mode among developers.
Some commenters delve into the technical implementation. One points out the use of
document.documentElement.classList.remove('dark')to enforce light mode, leading to a discussion about the efficacy and potential bypasses of such a method. This includes discussions of user-stylesheets and browser extensions that could override the site's imposed light theme. One commenter suggests injecting a<style>tag to enforce light mode, potentially making it harder for users to override. Another proposes using inline styles, considered the most difficult for users to circumvent.The discussion then pivots to the ethical implications of overriding user preferences, particularly regarding accessibility for users with visual impairments who might benefit from specific color schemes. One commenter suggests allowing users to opt-out as a reasonable compromise.
Beyond the light/dark mode debate, some commenters express interest in Beatcode as a platform. One asks about plans for supporting other websites like Codewars and HackerRank. The creator responds, indicating they are considering it but focused on LeetCode for now due to its larger user base.
A few commenters question the long-term value proposition of Beatcode, suggesting its novelty might wear off quickly. Others express appreciation for the project as a fun side project and a way to learn web development concepts.
Finally, there are a few scattered comments about the website's design and functionality, including a suggestion for using the LeetCode API for problem retrieval. Others express interest in contributing to the project.
Overall, the comments section reveals a mix of amusement at the core premise, technical discussion about implementing and circumventing the forced light mode, and some broader discussion about the platform's purpose and future.