[Alpha Beta]

Originally Posted by Chexposito

it will be interesting to see the rule changes for alliance selection, the new format will be interesting... i think this format may get some looks from FIRST ( it's off-season, so seeing a rule change (that could be implemented next year) is risk free on their end) in that it seems to even the playing field more than the current system in the elimination rounds. it may make eliminations closer and more therefore more exciting. it will change scouting strategies for sure, crossing out the top 7 picks you want right off the bat

I think I'm really going to like this set-up at the CTTD, especially being able to select our 4th robot and the ability to substitute freely from round to round.

While not being able to pick within the top 7 seems like a great idea for a terminal (no qualification for a follow-up event) offseason event, I have my reservations about it for a regional event. I think it would dilute the level of competition that makes it to the Championship. The 2nd best robot, (perhaps 2nd through 8th best robot if the seeding system does its job) would get left at home while the 9th best robot (at best) would get their ticket punched to Champs.

Now if the goal for Champs is to put on more of an exhibition featuring a broader array of robot quality then this system could accomplish that. Especially since all winning alliances would be guaranteed to have a 4th robot from the middle to bottom of the field.

To keep this system but maintian (or improve) the quality at Champs we would have to send to Champs the winning alliance captain, their first draft pick, kick out their 2nd (or at least their 3rd) draft pick, and invite the finalist captain in their place. While I could support that it would significantly change the dynamics of a regional event.