Robot Diversity

[Koko Ed]

Originally Posted by WJF2011

In my opinion, the quality of the game created by the GDC is directly reflected by the diversity of the robots that tackle it. In 2007, diversity ran very high due to the un-forseen nature of the game. Overdrive had slightly less diversity. Then Lunacy came along and had a roughly 4-type system: dumpers, shooters, shumpers, collectors. This year's game, Breakaway, has about the same amount of diversity or even less with 4 types: kickers, shovers, loopers, and mainly-hangers. Loopers and mainly hangers are rare types, which makes this even less diverse.

My question: Do you think that first has done enough to force creativity, "thinking outside the box", and diversity among robots, or should they do more?

In an attempt to popularize has the GDC given up some of the awesome design differences that really can inspire kids and force progress.

What are your thoughts, comments, anything on the subject?

I rate diversity as great bots (think 1114), good bots, ok bots, not so good bots, bad bots, should not have passed inspection bots (waaaaaay too many this year).
I'd rather rate games on the challenge (this game has vexed many good veteran teams) and how exciting the elims are (this year has all been pulse pounding. Lat year? It was like watching snails joust).