vex over under game manual

Structure of the Game Manual

The VEX Over Under Game Manual is organized into clear sections, ensuring easy navigation for participants. It begins with an introduction, followed by detailed game objectives and scoring systems. Subsequent sections cover robot rules, field setup, and alliance regulations. Penalties and fouls are outlined to maintain fair play, while match timing and phases provide a structured framework for competition. The manual concludes with strategic insights and final thoughts, offering a holistic guide for teams. Regular updates throughout the season ensure the manual remains relevant and accurate, making it an essential resource for competitors seeking to understand and excel in the game.

Game Objectives and Scoring System

The VEX Over Under game focuses on scoring blocks in goals, controlling field zones, and parking robots in designated areas. Elevating at the end boosts points.

Scoring Blocks in Goals

Scoring blocks in goals is a primary objective, with points awarded based on block placement. High goals, located at the field’s ends, award six points per block, while low goals, positioned mid-field, award two points each. Teams must strategically place blocks in these goals during the match. Robots can score blocks in both alliance and opponent goals, but only blocks in alliance goals contribute to the team’s score. The alliance with the most points from scored blocks wins. Proper block possession and placement within goals are essential for valid scoring. This objective requires precise robot manipulation and teamwork to maximize points efficiently during the match.

Controlling Zones Within Goals

Controlling zones within goals is a critical aspect of the game, as it determines additional scoring opportunities. Each goal contains specific zones that robots can occupy to earn points. To control a zone, a robot must be fully within its boundaries and maintain control throughout the match. Opposing robots can contest these zones, leading to strategic interactions. The alliance that controls the most zones at the end of the match gains bonus points. Effective zone control requires precise robot positioning and teamwork. This mechanic adds depth to the game, encouraging robots to balance scoring blocks with zone dominance. Proper strategy in zone control can significantly impact the final score.

Parking in Defined Areas

Parking in defined areas is a strategic element where robots position themselves within designated zones on the field. These areas are marked and vary in location and size. Robots must completely fit within these zones to qualify; Parking earns bonus points, incentivizing teams to maneuver their robots into these spots. Timing is crucial, as parking late in the match maximizes point value. Teams must balance scoring blocks with parking to optimize their total points. Proper positioning and robot design are essential for effective parking. This adds a layer of strategy, rewarding precise control and efficient use of the field. Parking bonuses can significantly influence the match outcome.

Elevating at the End of the Match

Elevating at the end of the match is a key strategy where robots lift themselves off the ground to earn bonus points. This action must occur during the final 30 seconds of the match. Robots can elevate using mechanisms like two-wheel or four-wheel lifts, ensuring all wheels lose contact with the field. A successful elevation is rewarded with additional points, with higher lifts earning more. Teams often design robots with lightweight materials and efficient lifting systems to achieve this. Proper timing and execution are critical, as failing to elevate fully may result in no bonus. This feature adds a dynamic endgame challenge, testing robot design and team coordination. Elevating effectively can significantly boost a team’s score.

Robot Rules and Regulations

This section outlines the essential guidelines governing robot design, movement, and interactions during matches, ensuring safety and fair play while preventing fouls and unfair advantages.

Starting Position of Robots

At the start of each match, robots must be entirely within their alliance’s starting zone, which is clearly marked on the field. Teams are allowed one robot per alliance, positioned according to the field’s designated boundaries. Robots must not extend beyond the starting zone’s limits or interfere with opponents. The starting position is critical, as it impacts early game strategies and scoring opportunities. Violations of starting position rules may result in penalties or disqualification. Proper alignment and adherence to these guidelines ensure fair play and a smooth match progression. Teams should verify their robot’s placement during the pre-match inspection to avoid issues. Compliance is essential for maintaining game integrity.

Movement Restrictions During Matches

During matches, robots must adhere to specific movement rules to ensure fair play and safety. Robots are not permitted to intentionally push or block opponents in a way that prevents them from moving freely. Additionally, robots must not exit the designated field boundaries or interfere with field elements. Any movement that results in prolonged trapping or hindrance of an opponent may be penalized. Robots are also prohibited from using excessive force that could damage opponents or field components. These restrictions aim to promote balanced competition and minimize interruptions. Teams must design and operate their robots to comply with these rules, ensuring smooth gameplay and adherence to the manual’s guidelines. Compliance is crucial for maintaining fair and competitive matches.

Lifting and Controlling Opponents

In the VEX Over Under game, robots are permitted to interact with opponents, but specific rules govern lifting and controlling. Robots may lift opponents to gain strategic advantages, such as limiting their movement or accessing higher goals. However, excessive force or prolonged trapping that prevents opponents from functioning is prohibited. Teams must ensure their robots do not damage opponents or field components during these interactions. Intentional tipping or immobilizing opponents for extended periods may result in penalties or fouls. Proper adherence to these rules ensures fair competition and maintains the integrity of the game. Teams must design their robots to comply with these restrictions while maximizing their strategic effectiveness. Compliance is essential for maintaining a balanced and competitive environment.

Field Setup and Components

The field includes elevated platforms, goals, loader zones, and barriers, promoting block placement and robot navigation in a competitive environment designed for strategic gameplay with specific dimensions.

Layout of the Game Field

The VEX Over Under game field is a 12ft by 12ft square, divided into zones to accommodate gameplay mechanics. The field features elevated platforms on both sides, each 6ft wide and 3ft deep, with a 1ft tall barrier. These platforms are connected by a bridge in the center, allowing robots to traverse between them. The lower field includes goal zones at each corner, with high and low goals for scoring blocks. Loader zones are positioned near the goals, enabling alliances to load blocks efficiently. Barriers and dividers separate the field into distinct areas, promoting strategic block placement and robot navigation. The layout is designed to encourage teamwork and tactical positioning while maintaining competitive gameplay dynamics.

Goal Types and Their Functions

The VEX Over Under game features two primary types of goals: high goals and low goals. High goals are elevated platforms located above the field barriers, requiring robots to lift or launch blocks to score. Low goals are ground-level containers positioned at the corners of the field, allowing easy access for block placement. Additionally, there are neutral goals shared by both alliances and alliance-specific goals for strategic scoring. Each goal type serves distinct functions, with high goals rewarding precision and mechanical complexity, while low goals encourage rapid block accumulation. The variety of goal types ensures diverse scoring opportunities, promoting balanced gameplay and teamwork. This design enhances competition by catering to different robot capabilities and strategies.

Loader Zones and Their Role

Loader Zones are designated areas on the game field where robots can pick up blocks to score. These zones are typically located near the alliance stations and are marked with distinct colors or lines. Their primary role is to provide a consistent and accessible location for robots to load blocks, ensuring efficient gameplay. Loader Zones are essential for alliances to quickly replenish their block supply, enabling continuous scoring throughout the match. They also help maintain game flow by reducing congestion on the field. Proper use of Loader Zones is crucial for maximizing scoring opportunities and achieving strategic advantages. Their design ensures fairness and accessibility for all teams.

Alliance Rules and Eligibility

Alliance rules ensure fair competition, outlining team collaborations, eligibility for scoring, and conduct expectations. Teams must adhere to these guidelines to maintain a competitive yet respectful environment.

Definition of an Alliance

An alliance in the VEX Over Under game consists of two teams collaborating during a match to achieve shared objectives. Teams work together strategically, combining their robots’ capabilities to maximize scoring efficiency and control key areas of the field. Alliances are temporary partnerships formed for each match, requiring clear communication and coordination to align strategies effectively. This cooperative structure encourages teamwork and mutual support, as each alliance member contributes uniquely to the collective success. Understanding the alliance dynamic is crucial for optimizing performance and achieving victory in the competition.

Eligibility for Scoring Points

In the VEX Over Under game, eligibility for scoring points is determined by the robot’s performance and adherence to game rules. Points are awarded when robots successfully score blocks in goals, control zones, or elevate at the end of the match. Robots must operate within defined boundaries and follow movement restrictions to ensure fair play. Only actions executed during the match timer count toward scoring, and any fouls or penalties may disqualify points. Eligibility is verified by referees, who monitor compliance with the rules and ensure accurate scoring. Teams must maintain legal robot configurations and avoid unsportsmanlike conduct to remain eligible for points throughout the competition.

Contact Rules for Robots

In the VEX Over Under game, robots are allowed to make contact with each other, but there are specific rules to ensure fair play and prevent damage. Robots cannot intentionally push, block, or trap opponents in a way that impedes their movement or access to the field. Any contact that results in flipping, tipping, or disabling an opponent’s robot is considered a foul. Robots must avoid excessive force or deliberate ramming, as these actions can lead to penalties or disqualification. Contact rules are enforced to promote sportsmanship and maintain a competitive balance. Referees closely monitor interactions to ensure adherence to these guidelines and maintain a safe environment for all participants.

Penalties and Fouls

Penalties and fouls are enforced to maintain fair play. Minor infractions may result in point deductions, while major violations can lead to disqualification. Referees enforce these rules strictly to ensure a competitive and safe environment for all teams.

Common Fouls and Their Consequences

Common fouls in the VEX Over Under game include illegal block placement, pushing opponents, or exceeding time limits. Illegal block placement occurs when a block is moved outside the field or into prohibited zones. Pushing opponents disrupts gameplay fairness and may result in penalties. Exceeding time limits during endgame procedures can lead to point deductions. Consequences vary based on severity but often include loss of points or match disqualification. Repeated fouls may escalate penalties, emphasizing the importance of strategic, rule-abiding gameplay. Teams must balance competitiveness with adherence to regulations to avoid jeopardizing their scoring opportunities and match outcomes.

Unsportsmanlike Conduct Penalties

Unsportsmanlike conduct penalties in the VEX Over Under game address behavior that violates the spirit of fair play. Examples include intentional damage to robots, verbal abuse, or deliberately violating rules to gain an unfair advantage. Penalties for such conduct may include yellow or red cards, with yellow cards serving as warnings and red cards resulting in disqualification. Repeated offenses can lead to escalated consequences, such as point deductions or match forfeiture. Teams are expected to maintain sportsmanship, respecting opponents, referees, and event staff. Unsportsmanlike behavior not only undermines the game’s integrity but also reflects poorly on the team and their organization, making it crucial to uphold ethical standards throughout the competition.

Disabled Robots and Their Handling

A disabled robot is one that cannot move or function due to damage or technical issues. If a robot becomes disabled during a match, referees will inspect it to determine the extent of the issue. Severely damaged robots may be removed from the field to prevent interference with gameplay. Teams are allowed to repair or replace a disabled robot, but this must be done within the allocated match time. If a robot is deemed beyond repair, the alliance may choose to continue the match with one robot; Handlers must avoid rough handling of disabled robots to prevent further damage or safety risks. Proper procedures ensure fair play and maintain the integrity of the competition.

Match Timing and Phases

A match is divided into phases, each with specific time limits. The total duration includes autonomous, driver-controlled, and endgame periods. Timing is strictly enforced for fair play.

Duration of a Match

A VEX Over Under match lasts exactly 1 minute and 30 seconds. This includes three distinct phases: a 15-second Autonomous Period, a 1-minute and 15-second Driver-Controlled Period, and a 10-second Endgame phase. Teams must strategize accordingly, as timing impacts scoring opportunities. The Autonomous phase begins with robots acting independently, executing pre-programmed instructions. Following this, drivers take control, maneuvering robots to score points. Finally, the Endgame phase allows robots to elevate or park for additional points. Timing is strictly enforced to ensure fair competition and consistent gameplay across matches. Understanding these durations is crucial for developing effective strategies and maximizing scoring potential.

Phases of the Game

The VEX Over Under game is divided into three distinct phases, each with unique objectives and rules. The Autonomous phase begins first, lasting 15 seconds, where robots operate independently using pre-programmed instructions. During this phase, robots can score points without driver intervention. Next, the Driver-Controlled phase commences, allowing drivers to manually operate their robots for 1 minute and 15 seconds, focusing on scoring blocks and controlling zones. Finally, the Endgame phase occurs during the last 10 seconds, where robots can elevate or park to earn additional points. These phases ensure balanced gameplay, blending autonomy, driver skill, and strategic planning.

Endgame Procedures

The endgame phase occurs in the final 10 seconds of the match, allowing robots to score additional points through specific actions. Robots can earn points by elevating, where they lift off the ground, or by parking in designated zones. Elevating requires robots to be completely off the ground and sustained until the match ends. Parking involves remaining in a defined area without moving. Both actions must be executed precisely to be counted. These procedures are vital for securing extra points and should be planned strategically by teams. Proper execution ensures maximum scoring potential in the final moments of the game.

Strategy and Team Collaboration

Effective strategy involves balancing offensive and defensive plays, optimizing scoring opportunities, and coordinating with alliance partners. Teams must communicate clearly, assign roles, and adapt tactics mid-match to maximize efficiency and achieve shared goals.

Offensive Strategies

Offensive strategies focus on maximizing scoring efficiency and controlling the flow of the game. Teams should prioritize quick and accurate scoring of blocks in high-value goal zones. Effective coordination with alliance partners ensures seamless execution of plays. Robots should be designed for agility and precision to navigate the field swiftly. Utilizing the loader zones strategically can enhance scoring capacity. Adaptability is key—teams must adjust their offensive tactics based on the match’s progression and opponents’ defenses. Emphasizing high-value actions during the endgame can significantly boost overall scores. Balancing individual robot capabilities with collaborative efforts ensures a robust offensive approach, driving towards victory.

Defensive Tactics

Defensive tactics aim to disrupt opponents’ scoring attempts and protect your alliance’s goals. Positioning robots to block opponents’ paths can hinder their movement and reduce their scoring opportunities. Intercepting blocks before they reach high-value zones is crucial. Protecting your alliance’s goals by guarding key areas ensures opponents cannot easily score. Using robots with agile designs allows for quick reactions to opponents’ moves. Forcing opponents into lower-value zones limits their scoring potential. Effective communication between alliance partners enhances defensive coordination. Strategic positioning and timely interventions are vital to minimize opponents’ efficiency. A strong defense not only secures your alliance’s lead but also creates offensive opportunities through counterattacks.

Endgame Scoring Opportunities

The endgame presents critical scoring chances to maximize points. Elevating robots at the end of the match can earn bonus points, especially if both alliance robots are lifted. Parking in defined areas during the final seconds guarantees additional points without active play. Blocking opponents from elevating denies them bonus points, strengthening your alliance’s position. Targeting high-value zones during the endgame ensures last-minute scoring opportunities. Coordinated efforts between alliance partners are essential to capitalize on these strategies effectively. Timing and precision are key to securing these final points, as the endgame can significantly influence the match outcome and overall ranking.

The VEX Over Under Game Manual provides a comprehensive guide to understanding the rules, strategies, and objectives of the game. By mastering the scoring system, robot regulations, and field components, teams can enhance their performance and competitiveness. Emphasizing teamwork, innovative strategies, and adherence to rules ensures a balanced and enjoyable competition. The game not only tests technical skills but also fosters problem-solving, collaboration, and sportsmanship. As teams prepare for matches, focusing on endgame opportunities and efficient scoring will be crucial. With practice and dedication, participants can achieve success and make the most of this engaging robotics experience.