Human achievable path generation in video games through modified heuristic search

We present a series of parameterizable modifications to heuristic evaluation of actions in the A* algorithm, designed to create human achievable and dexterity-robust paths through games in the 2 dimensional platformer style. We attempt to create paths designed for various levels of player skill by imposing constraints onto the timing and duration of actions in such a way as to mimic human reaction times and ability. We show that these modifications result in the A* search algorithm producing smoother paths, taking safer routes to avoid danger, and requiring fewer actions to be performed in a given amount of game time.