[WaterClaw]

Originally Posted by indubitably

This thread seems to be less about ill intent and more about how this year's game may create dissatisfaction with some teams. There seems to be some worry that all non-elite bots will be cast aside if they are on an alliance with an elite bot since there is only one game piece per alliance.

While I understand how this concern exists, I would be shocked if this became a common occurrence.

Be shocked. Be very shocked if you're saying this mentality is even somewhat unheard of.

Assist points are the first tiebreaker, so elite teams are going to, at very least, attempt to implement strategies that heavily favor assist scoring, especially if they feel the opposing alliance has a lower scoring capability.

Also, I have considered a great amount of robot combinations for this game and have yet to come up with one where even one bot would not have significant strategic impact. Even if a bot is playing defense, the zones they stay in, the bots they choose to defend, and the situations in which they may need to interact with the ball all affect what each alliance member needs to do to efficiently contribute.

As much as "elite bots" will not have as much actual advantage, the mentality will be most unfortunately prevalent. The lasting myth-turned-self-fulfilling-prophecy that veterans will have more of an advantage with more sponsors and better parts and designs. Naturally veteran teams will be affected by overall alliance performance; however when scouting, scouts will have to record subtleties in driver technique and experience.

I think the format of the game this year will allow for more teams to take the spotlight as people will be following the game pieces as opposed to particularly impressive bots. A strong defensive play will be more visible and a smooth assist will be highly regarded.

I would disagree only because failures will be even more obvious with the center of attention on only two elements. Spotlights will be more negative in nature unfortunately than anything. Exceptional performance will be considered the norm and time will be critical.