Leetcode #486: Predict the Winner
In this guide, we solve Leetcode #486 Predict the Winner in Python and focus on the core idea that makes the solution efficient.
You will see the intuition, the step-by-step method, and a clean Python implementation you can use in interviews.
Problem Statement
You are given an integer array nums. Two players are playing a game with this array: player 1 and player 2.
Quick Facts
- Difficulty: Medium
- Premium: No
- Tags: Recursion, Array, Math, Dynamic Programming, Game Theory
Intuition
The problem breaks into overlapping subproblems, so caching results prevents exponential repetition.
A carefully chosen DP state captures exactly what we need to build the final answer.
Approach
Define the DP state and recurrence, then compute states in the correct order.
Optionally compress space once the recurrence is clear.
Steps:
- Choose a DP state definition.
- Write the recurrence and base cases.
- Compute states in the correct order.
Example
Input: nums = [1,5,2]
Output: false
Explanation: Initially, player 1 can choose between 1 and 2.
If he chooses 2 (or 1), then player 2 can choose from 1 (or 2) and 5. If player 2 chooses 5, then player 1 will be left with 1 (or 2).
So, final score of player 1 is 1 + 2 = 3, and player 2 is 5.
Hence, player 1 will never be the winner and you need to return false.
Python Solution
class Solution:
def predictTheWinner(self, nums: List[int]) -> bool:
def dfs(i: int, j: int) -> int:
if i > j:
return 0
return max(nums[i] - dfs(i + 1, j), nums[j] - dfs(i, j - 1))
return dfs(0, len(nums) - 1) >= 0
Complexity
The time complexity is , and the space complexity is . The space complexity is .
Edge Cases and Pitfalls
Watch for boundary values, empty inputs, and duplicate values where applicable. If the problem involves ordering or constraints, confirm the invariant is preserved at every step.
Summary
This Python solution focuses on the essential structure of the problem and keeps the implementation interview-friendly while meeting the constraints.