The Robot Game Rulebook includes a description of acceptable 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 EV3 Mindstorm or LEGO Spike Prime kit. Additionally, teams are able to use older kits like the NXT and RCX, but these products have been retired by LEGO, so support is limited.

While the EV3 is being 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.

You can find the building instructions here.

Teams can use any software that allows the robot to move autonomously (on its own), 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.

See Page 17 (item 5) in the MASTERPIECE 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.