FTC Game Manual 2: A Comprehensive Overview (2025-2026 DECODE)
The 2025-2026 DECODE game manual, released by FIRST, details rules, scoring, and robot specifications for the season;
it’s available online now!
Part 1 covers critical changes, while Part 2 provides season-specific information, aiding teams in building and competing effectively.
Resources like the official website, forums, and starter bot information (AM-5000a) support teams throughout the DECODE challenge.
DECODE, presented by RTX for the 2025-2026 FIRST Tech Challenge season, plunges teams into a captivating world of signal decoding and future unveiling. This year’s challenge isn’t merely about robotics; it’s a narrative-driven experience centered around unlocking mysteries hidden within complex signals. The game’s theme encourages teams to think critically about data interpretation and strategic problem-solving, mirroring real-world applications in fields like communication and cybersecurity.
The official game animation, readily available online, provides a dynamic visual overview of the DECODE gameplay. It showcases how teams will interact with game elements and pursue scoring objectives. RTX’s sponsorship underscores a commitment to fostering STEM education and innovation, providing valuable resources and support to participating teams.
DECODE aims to inspire the next generation of engineers and technologists, challenging them to design, build, and program robots capable of navigating a complex game field and achieving strategic goals. The season promises a thrilling competition filled with ingenuity and teamwork.
Key Dates and Deadlines (2025-2026 Season)
The 2025-2026 FTC season, DECODE presented by RTX, operates on a structured timeline crucial for team organization and success. While specific dates are continually updated on the official FTC website, key milestones are predictable. Expect initial team registration to open in late Spring/early Summer of 2025, followed by a period for robot design and construction throughout the summer and early fall.
Regional qualification events typically commence in November and December, serving as pathways to the Championship Series. The release of Game Manual Part 1 (already available as of late 2024) provides early guidance, with Part 2 following shortly after.
Alliance selection and elimination rounds occur during regional and championship events. Teams must diligently monitor the official FTC resources for precise dates and adhere to all submission deadlines to ensure eligibility for competition and awards.
Game Overview: Unlocking Mysteries and Uncovering the Future
DECODE presented by RTX, the 2025-2026 FIRST Tech Challenge, challenges teams to become decoding experts in a futuristic, ocean-themed arena. The core gameplay revolves around identifying, manipulating, and strategically placing game elements – described as “little plastic bars” – to unlock points and reveal hidden objectives. Teams will need to develop both autonomous and driver-controlled strategies to maximize their scoring potential.
The game emphasizes problem-solving and adaptability, requiring teams to “unlock mysteries” through effective robot design and programming. The narrative centers around “uncovering the future,” suggesting a focus on innovation and forward-thinking engineering.
Success in DECODE demands a comprehensive understanding of the game manual, strategic alliance building, and precise robot execution. Watch the game animation for a visual overview!
Game Elements and Scoring
DECODE’s scoring hinges on manipulating “plastic bars” and decoding signals; strategic placement and autonomous routines are key to maximizing points throughout matches.
The Core Challenge: Decoding the Signals
The central premise of the 2025-2026 DECODE season revolves around the concept of “decoding signals,” a challenge presented by RTX and detailed within the released Game Manual Part 1 and Part 2. Teams will need to strategically interact with game elements – specifically, the noted “little plastic bars” – to successfully transmit and interpret these signals.
This isn’t merely a physical task; it demands a sophisticated understanding of the scoring system and the ability to develop both autonomous and driver-controlled routines capable of efficiently manipulating these elements. The animation released alongside the manual visually demonstrates how teams will unlock mysteries and uncover the future through this decoding process. Success will depend on innovative robot designs, precise sensor integration, and a robust control system architecture, all guided by the rules and regulations outlined in the official documentation.
Ultimately, the core challenge isn’t just about building a robot, but about building a system that can effectively “speak” the language of DECODE.
Scoring Objectives: Points and Priorities
The 2025-2026 DECODE scoring system, as detailed in the FTC Game Manual, prioritizes strategic manipulation of the game elements – those “little plastic bars” – to effectively “decode signals.” While specific point values aren’t yet fully public, the core objective centers around successful transmission and interpretation of these signals, suggesting a tiered scoring structure.
Teams should anticipate that autonomous period performance will be heavily weighted, demanding precise routines for initial signal decoding. Driver control will likely focus on maximizing points through continuous manipulation and strategic placement of game pieces. Understanding the nuances of the scoring objectives, as revealed in the Game Manual Part 1 breakdown, is crucial for developing effective strategies.
Alliance selection and elimination rounds will undoubtedly reward teams demonstrating consistent high scores and a clear understanding of point maximization.
Game Pieces: Detailed Specifications
The 2025-2026 DECODE game features unique game pieces described as “little plastic bars” within the FTC Game Manual. While seemingly simple, these elements are central to the decoding process and strategic gameplay. Detailed specifications, including dimensions, weight, and material composition, are crucial for robot end-effector design and manipulation strategies.
Teams must carefully analyze the game manual to understand how these pieces interact with the field elements and scoring zones. Precise gripping mechanisms and controlled movements will be essential for successful handling. The manual will likely outline tolerances for piece acceptance into scoring areas, impacting robot precision requirements.
Understanding the physical properties of these game pieces is paramount for developing effective autonomous and driver-controlled routines.
Autonomous Period Strategies
The Autonomous Period in DECODE will heavily reward pre-programmed routines focused on efficient game piece manipulation and strategic field positioning, as outlined in the Game Manual. Teams should prioritize reliable sensor integration for accurate navigation and object detection, maximizing points within the initial 30 seconds.
Successful autonomous strategies will likely involve pre-defined paths to collect and score game pieces, potentially utilizing the starter bot (AM-5000a) as a baseline for development. Careful consideration must be given to potential defensive maneuvers by opposing alliances and robust error handling to prevent stalling.
Optimizing autonomous code for speed and accuracy will be critical for gaining a competitive advantage in qualification and elimination matches.
Driver Control Period Tactics
The Driver Control Period in DECODE demands skillful robot operation and strategic alliance coordination, as detailed within the FTC Game Manual. Teams must develop effective driving strategies for rapid game piece acquisition, precise scoring, and defensive plays, adapting to the dynamic game environment.
Successful tactics will involve seamless communication between drivers, utilizing a clear understanding of robot capabilities and opponent positioning. Mastering end-effector control for efficient manipulation of game pieces is paramount, alongside quick reactions to changing field conditions.
Prioritizing high-value scoring opportunities and implementing effective defensive maneuvers will be crucial for maximizing points and securing victory in both qualification and elimination rounds.
Robot Design Considerations
DECODE’s challenges necessitate careful planning of drive trains, end effectors, and sensor integration;
the game manual guides these crucial design choices for optimal performance.
Control system architecture must support autonomous navigation and driver control, ensuring reliable operation throughout the competition season.
Drive Train Options for DECODE
Selecting the appropriate drive train is paramount for success in the DECODE challenge, demanding careful consideration of maneuverability, speed, and the ability to navigate the field effectively. Teams have several viable options, each with distinct advantages and disadvantages.
Traditional tank drive, utilizing two wheels and a differential steering system, remains a popular choice due to its simplicity and ease of programming. However, more advanced options like mecanum wheels offer omnidirectional movement, enabling strafing and complex rotations – potentially crucial for quickly responding to dynamic game situations.
Swerve drive, though mechanically complex, provides unparalleled control and precision, allowing for seamless transitions between directions. The game manual doesn’t explicitly favor one system, but teams must analyze the field layout and scoring objectives to determine which drive train best suits their strategic approach. Factors like robot size, weight distribution, and available motor power also influence the optimal choice, demanding a thorough engineering analysis.
End Effector Design for Game Piece Manipulation
The DECODE game necessitates a robust and versatile end effector capable of reliably manipulating the game pieces, which, according to available information, include plastic bars. Successful teams will prioritize designs that offer both secure grasping and precise placement.
Claw mechanisms, utilizing opposing jaws, provide a straightforward approach to gripping, but may struggle with inconsistent piece shapes. Innovative designs incorporating compliant materials or adjustable grip force can mitigate this issue. Alternatively, linear slides and rotating joints can enhance reach and dexterity, allowing for strategic positioning of game elements.
The game manual emphasizes efficient scoring, so minimizing drop rates and maximizing speed are critical design considerations. Teams should prototype extensively, testing various materials and actuation methods to optimize their end effector for the specific challenges presented by DECODE. Careful attention to weight and center of gravity will also contribute to overall robot performance.
Sensor Integration for Autonomous Navigation
Successful autonomous operation in DECODE hinges on effective sensor integration, enabling robots to perceive their environment and navigate the field without driver input. The game manual implicitly demands precise localization and object detection capabilities.
IMUs (Inertial Measurement Units) provide crucial orientation data, while encoders on drive motors track wheel rotations for odometry-based positioning. However, drift inevitably occurs, necessitating supplementary sensors. Vision-based systems, utilizing webcams or specialized cameras, offer robust object recognition and landmark tracking, correcting for odometry errors.
Ultrasonic or infrared sensors can detect proximity to obstacles, facilitating collision avoidance. Careful sensor fusion – combining data from multiple sources – is paramount for accurate and reliable autonomous navigation. Teams must prioritize robust filtering algorithms to minimize noise and maximize the precision of their autonomous routines, as outlined in available resources.
Control System Architecture
A robust control system architecture is fundamental to a competitive DECODE robot, demanding careful consideration of hardware and software components. The FTC ecosystem typically centers around the Control Hub, serving as the central processing unit and communication nexus.
Programming is primarily conducted using Java or Python, leveraging the FIRST SDK to interface with sensors, motors, and other peripherals. A layered software design – separating high-level strategy from low-level motor control – promotes modularity and maintainability. PID control loops are essential for precise motor regulation, ensuring accurate movements and repeatable actions.
Effective communication protocols, such as I2C or SPI, are crucial for sensor data acquisition. Teams should prioritize code optimization and efficient resource management to maximize performance and responsiveness, adhering to the guidelines detailed within the game manual and supporting documentation.
Rules and Regulations
The FTC DECODE game manual meticulously outlines robot size, weight limits, field boundaries, and safety protocols;
teams must adhere to these guidelines.
Penalties and fouls are clearly defined, alongside expectations for team conduct and sportsmanship, ensuring fair play throughout the competition season.
Robot Size and Weight Restrictions
The 2025-2026 DECODE game manual establishes strict limitations on robot dimensions and mass to ensure fair competition and field safety. Teams must meticulously adhere to these specifications throughout the design and build process, as exceeding these limits can result in disqualification or penalties during matches.
Specifically, the maximum robot size is 18 inches in length, 18 inches in width, and 12 inches in height. These dimensions are crucial for navigating the DECODE playing field and interacting with game elements effectively. Furthermore, the robot’s weight must not exceed 30 pounds (13.6 kilograms) when fully assembled and including all attachments and components.
These restrictions encourage innovative engineering within defined constraints, promoting strategic design choices and efficient use of materials. Teams are responsible for accurately measuring and weighing their robots to confirm compliance before and during competitions. Detailed diagrams and clarification regarding measurement procedures are available within the official game manual.
Field Boundary and Safety Zones
The DECODE playing field is clearly demarcated with boundaries and designated safety zones, outlined in the FTC game manual, to ensure a secure and organized competitive environment; Understanding these areas is paramount for both robot operation and team member positioning during matches.
The field perimeter defines the active play area, and robots venturing beyond this boundary may face penalties. Additionally, specific zones are established around the field to protect referees, volunteers, and spectators. These safety zones are strictly off-limits to robots and team members during active gameplay.
The manual details the precise dimensions and locations of these zones, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a safe distance. Teams must familiarize themselves with these regulations to prevent accidental contact or interference. Adherence to field boundary and safety zone rules is crucial for maintaining a positive and secure competition experience for all participants.
Penalties and Fouls
The 2025-2026 DECODE game manual meticulously details a comprehensive list of penalties and fouls that teams must avoid during competition. These infractions range from minor rule violations to more serious offenses impacting gameplay and safety, all clearly defined for fair play.
Penalties can result in point deductions, robot immobilization, or even disqualification from a match. Common fouls include illegal contact with opposing robots, interference with game elements outside of permitted actions, and exceeding robot size or weight restrictions. The manual specifies the severity of each infraction and the corresponding penalty applied.
Teams are responsible for understanding these rules and ensuring their robots and strategies comply. Referees have the authority to assess penalties during matches, and their decisions are final. Proactive adherence to the penalty guidelines is essential for maximizing a team’s score and maintaining a sportsmanlike conduct throughout the DECODE season.
Team Conduct and Sportsmanship
The FIRST Tech Challenge DECODE game manual emphasizes the importance of gracious professionalism and ethical conduct among all participating teams. Beyond technical skills, the manual stresses that respectful interactions, collaboration, and a positive attitude are integral to the FTC experience.
Teams are expected to demonstrate sportsmanship towards opponents, referees, and event volunteers. This includes respecting match outcomes, offering assistance to other teams when possible, and maintaining a positive representation of FIRST values. Unsportsmanlike behavior, such as harassment or intentional rule violations, will not be tolerated.
The manual outlines expectations for team behavior both on and off the field, promoting a culture of inclusivity and mutual respect. Demonstrating gracious professionalism isn’t just about winning; it’s about fostering a learning environment and celebrating the spirit of competition within the FTC community.
Competition Format
DECODE competitions involve qualification matches, alliance selection, and elimination rounds, culminating in award ceremonies recognizing team achievements and exemplary performance.
Teams compete in qualifying matches to determine rankings, then form alliances for intense elimination bracket play.
Awards acknowledge robot design, strategy, and team spirit.
Qualification Matches
Qualification matches are the initial phase of FTC competitions, where teams compete in a series of randomly assigned pairings to establish a ranking based on performance. These matches are crucial for determining seeding in the alliance selection process.
Each team participates in multiple qualification matches, typically around eight to ten, allowing for iterative improvements to robot strategy and execution. Points are awarded based on successful completion of game objectives, as outlined in the DECODE game manual. The ranking system considers both win-loss record and a calculated score reflecting the team’s ability to achieve scoring objectives.
Consistent performance and strategic gameplay are key to securing a high ranking, increasing the chances of being selected by a top-performing alliance. Careful observation of opponents during qualification matches is also vital for developing effective counter-strategies.
Alliance Selection Process
Following qualification matches, the top-ranked teams enter the alliance selection process, a strategic phase where team captains choose partners to form powerful alliances for elimination rounds. The highest-ranked team becomes the first alliance captain and selects a second team, and so on, until all alliances are formed.
This process demands careful evaluation of team performance, robot capabilities, and potential synergy. Captains analyze qualification match data, observing strengths and weaknesses to build a well-rounded alliance capable of maximizing scoring potential. Strategic considerations include complementary skills, reliable autonomous routines, and effective driver control.
Successful alliance selection is critical for advancement in the competition, as alliances compete head-to-head in elimination rounds to determine the ultimate champion.
Elimination Rounds
Elimination rounds represent the pinnacle of competition, where alliances battle head-to-head in a best-of-three series to advance through the bracket. These matches are high-stakes, demanding precision, strategy, and teamwork from both robots and drivers.
Each match within a series follows the same game rules as qualification matches, but the intensity is amplified. Alliances must execute their strategies flawlessly, adapting to opponent tactics and maximizing scoring opportunities. Communication and coordination between alliance partners are paramount for success.
Winning alliances progress to the next round, ultimately culminating in the final match to determine the tournament champion. Elimination rounds test the resilience, adaptability, and overall performance of teams, showcasing the culmination of their season-long efforts.
Award Categories and Criteria
FIRST Tech Challenge awards recognize excellence in various aspects of the program, extending beyond robot performance. These accolades celebrate innovation, teamwork, and community engagement, fostering a well-rounded robotics experience.
Common award categories include the Inspire Award (overall achievement), Engineering Inspiration (design process), Motivate Award (outreach), Build Award (robot construction), and Innovate Award (creative solution). Each award has specific judging criteria, evaluating team performance based on documentation, interviews, and on-field observations.
Judges assess teams’ engineering design, programming skills, strategic thinking, and commitment to FIRST’s core values. Winning teams demonstrate a strong understanding of robotics principles, effective collaboration, and a positive impact on their community, showcasing the true spirit of FIRST Tech Challenge.
Resources and Support
FIRST provides extensive support, including the official website, forums, and documentation; Brogan Pratt Robotics also offers valuable resources and assistance to teams.
The AM-5000a starter bot is a helpful tool, and the Game Manual Parts 1 & 2 offer detailed guidance for the DECODE season.
Official FTC Website and Documentation
The official FIRST Tech Challenge website (firstinspires.org) serves as the central hub for all DECODE-related information, offering immediate access to the complete 2025-2026 Game Manual, including both Part 1 and Part 2.
Teams should regularly check this site for updates, clarifications, and any official Q&A responses regarding rules or scoring. The documentation section provides in-depth explanations of game elements, field setup, and robot regulations.
Furthermore, the website hosts crucial resources like team registration information, event schedules, and links to supporting documents. It’s essential to familiarize yourself with the site’s navigation to efficiently locate needed materials.
FIRST continually updates the website with new content, ensuring teams have the most current information available throughout the season. Utilizing these official resources is paramount for successful DECODE participation.
FIRST Tech Challenge Forums and Communities
Engaging with the FIRST Tech Challenge community through online forums is invaluable for DECODE teams seeking support, collaboration, and shared knowledge. These platforms provide a space to ask questions, discuss strategies, and troubleshoot challenges encountered while interpreting the Game Manual.
Active forums allow teams to connect with experienced mentors, fellow students, and industry professionals, fostering a collaborative learning environment. Sharing insights and receiving feedback can significantly enhance a team’s understanding of the game’s intricacies.
Numerous online communities exist, offering diverse perspectives and specialized expertise. Participating in these discussions can unlock innovative solutions and accelerate a team’s progress throughout the DECODE season. Don’t hesitate to contribute and learn from others!
Robotics Starter Bot Information (AM-5000a)
The AM-5000a Robotics Starter Bot serves as an excellent foundation for teams new to FIRST Tech Challenge, particularly when navigating the complexities of the DECODE game manual. This pre-built robot provides a functional base, allowing teams to quickly grasp core robotics principles and begin prototyping.
While not specifically designed to excel at all DECODE challenges out-of-the-box, the AM-5000a offers a valuable learning platform. Teams can modify and expand upon its existing capabilities, gaining practical experience in robot design, programming, and integration.
Understanding the Starter Bot’s components and functionality can also aid in interpreting the Game Manual’s specifications and constraints, accelerating the design process for a customized DECODE robot.
Brogan Pratt Robotics Resources
Brogan Pratt Robotics offers a comprehensive suite of resources designed to support FIRST Tech Challenge teams throughout the DECODE season and beyond, complementing the official FTC Game Manual. Their platform provides access to exclusive robotics content, including in-depth tutorials, design guides, and code examples.
Teams can leverage these resources to enhance their understanding of complex concepts, refine their robot designs, and optimize their performance in DECODE. Brogan Pratt also offers personalized support options, allowing teams to receive direct guidance on their specific projects.
Furthermore, the shop features various robotics components and tools, streamlining the build process and enabling teams to implement innovative solutions based on the DECODE game challenges.
Game Manual Part 1 & Part 2 Breakdown
The 2025-2026 DECODE Game Manual is strategically divided into two parts to facilitate team understanding and preparation. Part 1, released initially, focuses on critical rule changes, scoring updates, and key gameplay elements introduced in the DECODE challenge.
This section provides a high-level overview, enabling teams to quickly grasp the core concepts and begin strategizing. Part 2 delves into more specific details, offering comprehensive information tailored to traditional events.
It covers event-specific regulations, field setup guidelines, and detailed clarifications on game rules, ensuring teams are fully prepared for competition. Both parts are essential resources for navigating the DECODE season successfully.