$8-$Puzzle Solver Application with A$*$ Search Algorithm and GUI

Description:

This project involves the development of an $8-$puzzle solver application that uses the $A^{**}$ search algorithm to find the optimal solution. The application includes a graphical user interface $($GUI$)$ built with Python's Tkinter ${?}^1$ library to display the puzzle$-$solving process in real$-$time. The application should shows the puzzle's initial state, goal state, and the step$-$by$-$step process as it progresses toward the solution.

Requirement:

Implement the A$*$ Search Algorithm: Use the A$*$ search algorithm to solve the $8$puzzle, using Manhattan and$/$or Hamming distance heuristics to guide the search.

Display the Puzzle in a GUI: Build a GUI to visualize the initial and goal states, as well as the solving process in real$-$time.

Animate the Solution: The GUI will animate each step of the puzzle$-$solving process, showing how the puzzle evolves as the algorithm works toward the goal.

Print the Solution Steps: Display the solution steps both in the console and the GUI, showing the actions taken and the puzzle state at each step.

Provide User Interaction: Allow users to initiate the solving process and observe the solution through the GUI.

Deliverables:

Implementation Code: A Python$-$based $8-$puzzle solver with a graphical user interface.

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