Game Hint #1

[logicalyrandom]

Originally Posted by billbo911

Many of us have posted ideas and thoughts here based on the name "Moonfish". I see nothing wrong with that, but I need to point out, according to Wikipedia:

So, maybe "Moon" is not the only thing we should consider.


I have made this point elsewhere, but I think it has bearing on this conversation. If you will recall the 2008 game (I know, it is still 2008), the GDC did a fantastic job developing a game where every level of team could contribute. Teams that could barely do more than assemble the KOP chassis could at least drive and earn points. Teams that were more skilled/experienced could score by driving, hurdling, placing the Track Ball or knocking it down. Some teams were even able to rock the house with autonomous routines that were amazing!

So, how does that apply here?
I see no reason that the GDC would move away from that formula for game design and would make it more difficult for the least capable teams to at least contribute. I just don't see having a moon like playing surface supporting that goal. Although, without knowing the game nor the content of the KOP, what I just said is really only a SWAG.

I agree with you on the count of FIRST keeping the game competitive for all levels of teams, but I still think it's possible for them to allow for some sort of uneven surface. One way would be to have the game pieces be smaller blocks, traffic cones, that type of thing, and distribute them randomly over the playing field at the start of each match. Or, using the same idea, maybe one alliances pieces will be on the other side of the field, requiring robots to cross their opponets pieces at the start of the match.

Another way of having an uneven surface would be a field with bunch of ramps. Ramps allow for changes in elevation/rougher driving, add a level of strategy to the match, and are easy enough for first year teams to navigate. My final idea would be to have, say a bunch of traffic cones on the field, or similar object that wouldn't damage a robot that chose to ignore them, but would slow it down.

/2cents.