PCN: a text notation for curling games, one line per shot

Description and use

PCN is an open text format for curling that records each shot on a separate line, enabling diffing, replay, and integration with existing data sources.

Problem

Curling lacks a public, machine‑readable notation that allows one‑shot‑per‑line records, diffing, and replay, unlike shogi kifu or chess PGN.

Outcome

PCN enables machine‑readable, diffable, and replayable curling game records, bridging gaps between PDFs, simulators, and coaching apps.

Workflow

• 1. Define four information layers: line score, shot description, stone positions, motion.
• 2. Adopt World Curling shot codes and ratings for consistency.
• 3. Design a header with key/value tags (PCN, Event, Red, Yellow, etc.).
• 4. Allow optional layers so files can contain only available data.
• 5. Ensure files are line‑oriented, appendable, and diff‑friendly.
• 6. Publish the spec and example files on GitHub.
• 7. Encourage adoption by converting existing PDFs and simulator logs to PCN.

Evidence

Curling, as far as I could find, has no public notation that does the same job.

Source

The spec is public (the Japanese text is normative; there is an English edition): https://github.com/shinagaki/pcn/blob/main/spec/PCN_SPEC.en.md

Source

Plain text, one shot per line.

Source

Four layers by depth of information.

Source