*Sweetplay* Theseus and the Minotaur logic mazes

Assalamu aleikum,

I really like these. Robert Abbot created the first Theseus and the Minotaur logic mazes and published them in the book Mad Mazes, then Toby Nelson facilitated their transition into the digital world by creating a very playable Java applet for them. The whole story can be found on the Robert Abbot site.

In case you didn't know, the name is based on the infamous Greek legend (short version here).

To get started, I recommend you try the games on Robert Abbot's site (to the left of the home page at www.logicmazes.com), as they begin with simple 3x3 grids. Once you get the hang of it, you can try the 6x6 puzzles at Toby Nelson's page (www.tnelson.demon.co.uk/mazes). Only true die-hards can even think of attempting the fiendish 14x9 puzzle found there.

Here are the rules:
- You are Theseus: the black dot. Your aim is to get to the exit without being eaten by the Minotaur: the red dot.
- On the websites, double-click on the diagram to get the game started.
- Use the arrow keys to move Theseus.
- For each move that Theseus makes, the Minotaur makes two moves.
- The Minotaur always tries to get closer to Theseus. When possible, he prefers to do so via a HORIZONTAL move FIRST.
- If the Minotaur reaches your square, the game is over.

For example:

If the Minotaur can get close to Theseus by moving two squares horizontally, he will do so. If he can't, he will try to move in another way, preferrably horizontally then vertically. If he can only get closer to Theseus in one move, he will do whatever move he needs (be it vertical or horizontal).

The Minotaur can get blocked while attempting to move - a fact that must be exploited. Your aim is basically to "lead" the Minotaur through your moves until he is a)far away from you or b) in a tricky situation so that you can make your exit!

Hints:
- Don't forget the delay ('D') key - occasionally, waiting and letting the Minotaur move may just be what you need to make your escape!