MHB What Is the Winning Probability for Player One in an N-Sided Die Game?

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    2017
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In the N-sided die game, player one rolls first and must roll a higher number than the previous roll to win. The probability of player one winning depends on the total number of sides on the die. If player one rolls a number, the chances of player two rolling a higher number decrease as the number of sides increases. The discussion includes a suggested solution that outlines the mathematical approach to calculate player one's winning probability. Understanding this probability is crucial for strategizing in the game.
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Here is this week's POTW:

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Two people take turns rolling an N-sided die. The object of the game is to roll a higher number than the previous roll. Failure to roll a higher number results in losing the game. Assuming player one rolls first, find the probability that player one wins the game.

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No one answered last week's problem.(Sadface)

You can find the suggested solution as follows:

The probability that player one loses is

$P_L=0$ for $N=1$

$P_L=\dfrac{1}{4}$ for $N=2$

$P_L=\dfrac{8}{27}$ for $N=3$

$P_L=\dfrac{81}{256}$ for $N=4$

We can see the pattern where $P_L=\left(1-\dfrac{1}{n}\right)^n$ for $N=n$.

Therefore, the probability that player one wins $=P_W=1-P_L=1-\left(1-\dfrac{1}{n}\right)^n$.
 
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