Algorithm needed

I need an algorithm written in VB 6 that can find the best solution to the game Poppit located on Pogo.com. Please go look at this game before bidding!!! I already have code the does everything else necessary, all I need is to find the best solution to implement. The final product should be a routine returning an array sorted in the order balloons should be popped to leave the fewest balloons possible. I currently have balloon locations in a two dimensional array, i.e. Balloon(x,y) where x is across and y is down. The routine should also return the number of "balloons" left after each run, so I can see how good the solution is as it works. I need this routine to work quickly, hopefully finding the best solution in less than 2 minutes, if possible. If bids are reasonable for this project, I'll require the completed routine in 3-5 days after bidding ends. Winning bidder may get more work along this line for future algorithms/programs. ## Deliverables 1) Complete and fully-functional working program(s) in executable form as well as complete source code of all work done. 2) Deliverables must be in ready-to-run condition, as follows (depending on the nature of the deliverables): a) For web sites or other server-side deliverables intended to only ever exist in one place in the Buyer's environment--Deliverables must be installed by the Seller in ready-to-run condition in the Buyer's environment. b) For all others including desktop software or software the buyer intends to distribute: A software installation package that will install the software in ready-to-run condition on the platform(s) specified in this bid request. 3) All deliverables will be considered "work made for hire" under U.S. Copyright law. Buyer will receive exclusive and complete copyrights to all work purchased. (No GPL, GNU, 3rd party components, etc. unless all copyright ramifications are explained AND AGREED TO by the buyer on the site per the coder's Seller Legal Agreement). ## Platform All windows platforms from Win 98 onward. Code MUST be in Visual Basic 6!!!!!