[tsaksa]

I for one do NOT hate this years game. In fact I love it. Every year the game is a compromise in some ways with both pros and cons. This year there seems to have more potential for inconsistent application of fouls, and potential pedestal delays and other frustrations on the field. I am sure that some of the issues with this years game are particularly concerning to some of the most elite teams who plan carefully, and depend on consistency. However, this years game also seems to offer a lot to offset some of those shortcomings. Here is why I particularly like this years game.

1. It is very exciting to watch. With high point swings, and large easy to follow game pieces, there have been some really thrilling games to watch.

2. The game is at least playable by a team with limited funding. This year it is much easier for small or disadvantaged teams to at least "show up" for the game, and compete at a modestly competitive level.

3. Cooperation is rewarded much more this year, and I have seen many more examples of cooperation on the field this year than on most other recent years.

4. Autonomous mode scoring is more obtainable this year, and I have seen a higher percentage of robots perform at least basic autonomous scoring this year.

These are just opinions. I do not have data to support any of this, but that was my impression of game so far.