[EricH]

What would have happened if:

2007 had used bicycle inner tubes or tires?

Let's suppose that instead of pool tubes (custom made) the GDC had gone with bicycle inner tubes, inflated. Supply chain is easier--any bicycle store worthy of the name should be able to get a few dozen tubes, neatly boxed, within a week or so, especially if the manufacturer in question knows there is a big demand coming in, and for a pretty decent price. Plus a typical bike shop carries quite a few tubes in stock-on-hand anyways, in a variety of sizes/valve types.

But the rack would have been much, much different, and so would have been gripper designs. Spare tubes would be plentiful, and so would repair methods.

But that isn't the route taken, and I think it made the game better. Even though FIRST teams had to deal with custom item hassles, the game overall was very good.

Object-dependent games may not help supply chain issues; supply-chain-friendly games may not help playability/team-friendliness.

But the indication that pool noodles will be needed is very timely, as it allows teams to get end-of-summer discounts as well as bulk discounts.