Nikolaos Papahristou

This webpage gives an overview of my research activities and interests. I have received a PhD doctorate from the Department of Applied Informatics, University of Macedonia, under the supervision of Assistant Professor Ioannis Refanidis. My main research interests are: Artificial Intelligence, Game AI, Machine Learning, Reinforcement Learning, Neural Networks, Data Visualization.

Artificial Intelligence Game AI Machine Learning Reinforcement Learning Neural Networks Data Visualization

nikpapa@gmail.com

Projects

Palamedes

Palamedes is a research project focused on developing expert-level artificial intelligence for backgammon and related variants. It explores whether techniques used by strong backgammon programs can be generalized across multiple variants, and investigates new algorithms and methods to advance expert AI for these games.

Last updated: 2026-04-01

AnyGammon

Normally backgammon games are played in a 24-point board using 15 checkers or men per side and 2 six-sided dice. This project attempts to extend the popular backgammon games to arbitrary configurations. Games can be played using different board sizes, number of checkers, and number of die sides. Smaller board configurations make the game easier for players and AI algorithms, while larger board configurations make it more challenging.

Last updated: 2019-04-18

Publications

View on my Google Scholar page.

Awards & Honours

2015
Gold medal at the 2015 Backgammon Computer Olympiad with the Palamedes program.
2012
Tech Pioneer Award by the PC Magazine Greece.
2011
Gold medal at the 2011 Backgammon Computer Olympiad with the Palamedes program.
2008
Greek State Scholarship Foundation (IKY) scholarship awarded (2008).