The UNEARTHED Robot Game Rulebook (Pg 14) includes a description of allowable robot equipment – “All equipment must be LEGO® made building pieces, in original factory condition.” So there are many options for teams. Most teams use either a LEGO Spike Prime kit. Additionally, teams are able to use older kits like the LEGO EV3 Mindstorm, NXT and RCX, but these products have been retired by LEGO, so support is limited.

While the EV3 has been retired by LEGO, it will be used in competitions for years to come. Read more about that retirement process here. In 2019, LEGO introduced the Spike Prime to the world and we have seen many teams use the kit successfully during our last season. It is recommended that teams also use the Spike Prime expansion set for competitions.

Using a regulation game table is not necessary during practice as teams may have storage or space issues, but it is highly recommended that teams do practice with one before attending a regional tournament. Consult the Field Set Up Guide (Video – PDF) with more tips for practicing without a field.

You can find the building instructions here.

Teams can use any software that allows the robot to move autonomously (on its own) and run only by programs that are loaded onto the controller.

Remote control is not allowed in the competition setting and Bluetooth must be turned off.

Read more about this on Pg 14 of the UNEARTHED Robot Game Rulebook

It is very important that teams and coaches continue to check out the “Challenge Updates” that are constantly getting refreshed throughout the season.

After consulting the Robot Game Rulebook and Challenge Updates, many teams consult our ListServ with questions. This platform is also monitored by our regional head referee and “Decider-in-Chief” of all game related questions, Michael Brown.