[EricH]

The last time the field size itself changed was in 2005, when the transition from 4 robots to 6 robots was made. The shape changed in 1999, when alliances were introduced.

Look at 2001, 2000, or 2003 for what you're describing. I know that in 2000 and 2003, my team built a robot that could go under barriers... 2004 had some very interesting terrain. Steps or step? You go the same place... But some teams skipped both routes and went straight from the floor.