Quote:
Originally Posted by joelg236
Look at all three Einstein winning teams. Pure cyclers (and 2 with ground pickups). 30 point climbing is nice, but it was not the most reliable (see 67, 1114, 254) strategy this year.
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Agreed. Our team's climber also went wonky in the quarterfinals on Archimedes and couldn't climb higher than the second level. Our autonomous climb ran smoothly all season and failed at the worst time. Due to the complexity of climbing this year I'm not surprised by the wear and tear among the 30 point climb club. Looking back at the season, we would have still stuck with our climber it provides unique flexibility in a match.
I also think the reason 30 point climbers were so rare this season especially in the elimination rounds came from too many rules, low point value for the level 3 climb*, and Robot In 3 Days.
The reason I bring up RI3D is because I feel as though a lot of teams who would normally have focused on one aspect of the game, specifically the endgame, were inspired by the RI3D robot and strategy. Looking back at the season there were tons of teams who used a similar shooter and/or feed system. Looking at the RI3D robot, the real limitation in the point score was how quickly you could travel to the feeder station which for many teams was 3-4 trips, plus autonomous, plus a quick 10 point hang. This greatly outweighed a 30 point climb which for many teams it was a choice between one and the other.
That being said I love RI3D! Those guys worked hard and they really brought such a unique aspect to the season and served as an inspiration to many teams. I really look forward to seeing what the 2014 season brings for them.
*35 would have been a better score for level 3 IMHO*
Back on topic.
To be honest, I really loved the strategy 469 used this season. They have a very reliable autonomous with both center line and under the pyramid, quick cycler, quick floor pickup, extremely accurate full court (from both sides of the field) shooter, and a fast 10 point climb. Such a versatile machine that can cause a lot of damage in a match from many angles!