The 2010 FRC game is called Breakaway and is equivalent to robot soccer. The field is 27 by 54 feet, split into three zones by bumps that extend the width of the field. Each bump has a raised tower in the middle, and underneath the tower is a tunnel robots can use to travel between zones. Robots can also travel over the bumps, but falling over is a common occurrence.

The game begins with a 15 second autonomous period, where robots score points by kicking standard soccer balls into their own goals. For example, Blue Alliance Robots will kick the soccer balls into the Blue Goal on the Blue Side. One soccer ball will be placed in the closest ‘Blue’ zone, two in the middle zone, and three in the farthest ‘Red’ zone. Robots have to work together [Coopertition!] so the three robots from three teams in three zones will have their opportunities at scoring.

After the 15 seconds, the 2 minute teleoperated period begins where students can control and drive their robots [from outside the field, on their alliance’s side]. Robots continue to score goals on their side; after scoring, a human player will pick up the ball and attach it to their ‘trident’, which will send the ball to their tower for reentry into the field. During the teleoperated period, robots can also begin defending the opposing team’s goal.

Each goal is worth 1 point, with bonus points available near the end of the match. Robots will gather at their towers and attempt to climb on and hang off the tower. If this is successful, they can earn 2 points. If another robot then hung off an alliance team’s robot [instead of attaching itself to the tower, it attaches itself to another robot and lifts itself off the ground] 3 points will be awarded.

For a visual of how the game works, you can watch this video. Additional resources may be found here.