Function pointers are a good means of allowing "flexible" finite state patterns, by making each function a state, directing all program flow to a "next" functio

Function pointers are a good means of allowing "flexible" finite state patterns, by making each function a state, directing all program flow to a "next" function pointer, and using conditionals within each state to begin transitions: /* an "active" state where a timer decrements unless the user hits a key. */ if (timer<1) {prep_for_idle(); next = idle;} else if (user_hit_key) {timer+=100; next = active;} else {timer--; next = active;} I use this pattern in haXe and Python, not C, but it applies equally well.