There is still lots of time before IRI, but here are some of the rule changes being considered. None of these are firm changes, and they require agreement with the planning team and referee team before we formalize.
1. All minibots worth 20 points, regardless of place.
Why? This actually adds some strategy. How long do you take to place that last tube before driving to the tower? How close can you get to :01 left on the clock to deploy? With so many fast minibots, should it really be worth 20 more points if you can climb in .15 seconds vs someone elses .2? This also saves teams from spending the next 8 weeks trying to make an (even) faster minibot.
2. Score Ubertubes in teleop. The Ubers could still be a doubler (if another tube is placed over them) but they don't get the 2 or 4 or 6 points from Auton. If an alliance doesn't score one of theirs, it is up for grabs. There could even be an extra one or two one the field...
3. Reduced lane violation calls, if it doesn't impact an opposing robot or have tube contact.
4. Instant Replay. Considered for the towers, for deployment, but may not be wanted / needed if change #1 gets made.
Others are being discussed. Nothing that has a drastic change on the way the game is played or negates a good design will be implemented. Just little adjustments that we can make with the hindsight of several weeks of gameplay.
I will commit the IRI Team to have all rule changes agreed by June 15 so teams know of any adjustments to make and have time to do it.
