Two-dimensional array question

[natrap]

Is it possible to have a two-dimensional array/list/collection such as the following.

The first dimension is to have 2 elements, 0 and 1. The second dimension I would like to be able to have a different number of elements for each of the elements in the first dimension.

To explain better, I'd like X in array(0, X) to go up to say 4 and Y in array(1, Y) to only go up to say 2.

So there would be:

array(0,0)
array(0,1)
array(0,2)
array(0,3)
array(0,4)
array(1,0)
array(1,1)
array(1,2)

but no array(1,3) or array(1,4).

I'd also need to be able to use Redim Preserve to increase the size of the second dimension for each of the first dimension's elements.

I suspect this is not possible but if it is it would be of benefit to me so I will be greatly appreciative of any assistance.

Could an array of arrays be the answer?

[Kasracer]

Can you tell us what kind of data you're trying to store? Doesn't seem to fit well with an array but creating your own objects might make things easier.

[natrap]

The data type is Short.

I've done some searching and found out how to use a jagged array. So to start with I've got

Dim PlayerCard(0 To 1)() As Short
PlayerCard(0) = New Short(0 To 0) {}
PlayerCard(0)(0) = 7

My problem is I'm not sure how to resize PlayerCard(0) while preserving its values.

I know I can then do

PlayerCard(0) = New Short(0 to 1) {PlayerCard(0)(0), 0}

to add a second element but when the number of elements gets larger this method will become very ineffecient. Is there a better way?

[natrap]

I think I found what I need. I used Array.Resize(PlayerCard(0),Int) which preserves the values.

[dbasnett]

If you are doing poker see http://www.vbforums.com/showthread.php?t=600995.

[natrap]

Blackjack actually.

[dbasnett]

The deal and hands functionality could be used. You would need to write the hand evaluator for black jack, which should not be all that hard.

[natrap]

I've already written the logic from scratch but thanks for the suggestion.

[dbasnett]

I just mentioned it because it has all the images for each card in it, as well as the concepts for a deck, and hands.