FTC CenterStage Game Manual 1: A Comprehensive Overview (as of 01/22/2026)
CENTERSTAGE, the 2026 FTC game, centers around scoring, hanging, and launching; teams must adhere to all documented rules and requirements for compliance.
CENTERSTAGE, the 2026 FIRST Tech Challenge game, presents a dynamic arena where alliances collaborate to maximize points through strategic gameplay. This manual serves as the definitive guide for teams, outlining all aspects of the competition, from game mechanics and scoring to robot design and operational regulations. Teams will navigate a field featuring Backstage, Stage, and Rigging scoring zones, utilizing Pixels and Drones to accumulate points.
Game Overview and Core Concepts
CENTERSTAGE is fundamentally a points-based competition where two alliances – comprised of two teams each – vie for supremacy. Core concepts revolve around strategically manipulating Pixels and launching Drones to score in designated zones: Backstage, Stage, and Rigging. Robots earn points by accurately placing Pixels, with varying values depending on the location. Successful Drone Launches also contribute significantly to a team’s score.
Parking in the Backstage area yields five points, while suspension via the Rigging earns twenty. Teams can potentially earn 10, 20, or 30 points depending on parking location. Mastering these core mechanics, alongside understanding alliance strategy, is crucial. Remember, drones cannot be acquired once launched, emphasizing precision and timing.
Alliance Structure and Team Roles
CENTERSTAGE competition utilizes a two-team alliance structure, fostering collaboration and strategic synergy. Each match pits two alliances against each other, demanding coordinated efforts for success. While specific team roles aren’t rigidly defined by the FTC, effective alliances typically emerge with specialized functions. One team might focus on Pixel acquisition and precise placement, while the other concentrates on Drone Launching and endgame maneuvers like parking or suspension.
Clear communication and pre-match strategy discussions are paramount. Teams must seamlessly integrate their capabilities to maximize scoring potential. Successful alliances demonstrate adaptability, adjusting tactics based on opponent performance and evolving game dynamics.
Scoring Elements and Mechanisms
CENTERSTAGE scoring involves Pixel placement, Drone Launching, and endgame achievements—parking or suspension—with varying point values depending on location and execution.
Scoring Zones: Backstage, Stage, and Rigging
CENTERSTAGE features three distinct scoring zones: the Backstage, the Stage, and the Rigging. Robots earn points by successfully interacting with these areas throughout a match. Parking within the Backstage area yields a modest five points, providing a consistent, achievable scoring opportunity. Strategic placement on the Stage offers greater rewards, though specifics are detailed elsewhere in this manual.
The most substantial point potential resides in utilizing the Rigging system. A robot that successfully suspends itself from the rigging structure earns a significant twenty points. Furthermore, depending on the precise parking location—Backstage, Stage, or Rigging—teams can accumulate ten, twenty, or thirty points respectively, emphasizing strategic endgame positioning. Understanding these zone values is crucial for developing effective scoring strategies.
Pixel Placement and Point Values
CENTERSTAGE’s core scoring mechanic revolves around Pixel placement. These game elements must be strategically deposited within designated scoring zones to accrue points for the alliance. The precise point values associated with each Pixel successfully placed are detailed in a separate scoring matrix within this manual. Teams should prioritize efficient Pixel acquisition and delivery systems.
Effective Pixel management and distribution are paramount to maximizing a team’s score. Consideration must be given to both the quantity of Pixels scored and their placement location. Furthermore, understanding the interplay between Pixel scoring and other scoring opportunities, such as hanging, is vital for developing a comprehensive game strategy. Accurate Pixel placement is key to success.
Drone Launching Mechanics and Scoring
A significant scoring opportunity in CENTERSTAGE involves launching Drones. Teams must adhere to specific launch mechanics outlined in this manual to ensure valid scoring. Once launched, Drones contribute points to the alliance total based on successful flight and designated target zones. It’s crucial to note that Drones cannot be acquired once launched; therefore, strategic launch timing is essential.
Accuracy and timing are paramount when executing Drone launches. Teams should develop robust launch mechanisms and control systems to maximize scoring potential. Understanding the trajectory and flight characteristics of the Drones is vital; Furthermore, integrating Drone launches with overall game strategy will significantly enhance a team’s competitive edge.
Prop Acquisition and Control Rules
CENTERSTAGE features Props that teams must acquire and strategically control to maximize scoring opportunities. These Props are subject to specific acquisition rules detailed within this manual, governing how robots can interact with and secure them. Teams must design mechanisms capable of reliably grasping and manipulating the Props without violating any outlined restrictions.
Control of Props is crucial for placement in designated scoring zones. Robots cannot illegally impede opposing alliances from acquiring Props. Maintaining possession and preventing interference are key strategic elements. Understanding the legal boundaries of Prop control, including permitted contact and prohibited actions, is essential for fair play and successful gameplay.
Robot Design and Construction
FTC robots must adhere to strict size and weight limitations, utilizing permitted materials while avoiding prohibited ones; sensor and motor specifications apply.
Robot Size and Weight Restrictions
FTC teams must carefully consider robot dimensions and mass during the design phase, as strict limitations are enforced for fair competition and safety. The maximum robot size is 18 inches long, 18 inches wide, and 18 inches high, measured with all components at their maximum extension.
Crucially, the robot’s weight cannot exceed 30 pounds (13.6 kilograms) at the start of a match. This weight includes all onboard components, such as the robot controller, sensors, motors, and any attached scoring elements. Teams are responsible for accurately weighing their robot before each match and ensuring compliance with these restrictions. Exceeding these limits can result in penalties or disqualification. Precise measurements and weight verification are conducted during the inspection process.
Permitted and Prohibited Materials
FTC teams have flexibility in material selection, but certain restrictions apply to ensure safety and fair play in CENTERSTAGE. Commonly permitted materials include aluminum, steel, plastic (like polycarbonate and acrylic), and wood. Teams can utilize 3D-printed parts, provided they adhere to flammability standards.
However, several materials are explicitly prohibited. These include, but aren’t limited to, highly flammable substances, pressurized gases, and materials that could damage the field or other robots. Sharp edges and points must be appropriately covered or smoothed to prevent injury. The use of commercially manufactured robot kits is generally allowed, but modifications must still comply with all FTC rules. Detailed guidance is available in the official game manual.
Sensor Usage and Integration
FTC robots in CENTERSTAGE can significantly benefit from strategic sensor integration. Teams are permitted to utilize a wide array of sensors, including color sensors for Pixel identification, distance sensors for navigation and object detection, and gyroscopic sensors for precise rotational control. Accelerometers and IMUs aid in maintaining robot stability and tracking movement.
The FTC SDK provides libraries to facilitate seamless sensor integration and data acquisition. Proper calibration is crucial for accurate readings. Teams must ensure sensors do not interfere with other robots or the playing field. Refer to the official FTC documentation (https://ftc-docs.firstinspires.org/) for detailed specifications and programming examples.
Motor and Actuator Specifications
FTC teams designing robots for CENTERSTAGE must adhere to strict motor and actuator specifications. The use of commercially available DC motors, servo motors, and linear actuators is permitted, provided they meet voltage and current limitations outlined in the official game manual. Motor controllers must be FTC-approved and properly configured within the Robot Controller App.
Teams should carefully consider gear ratios and torque requirements for tasks like Drone launching, Pixel manipulation, and robot locomotion. Actuators used for lifting or suspension mechanisms must be robust and reliable. Detailed specifications, including maximum motor speeds and stall currents, are available in the FTC documentation;
Game Rules and Regulations
CENTERSTAGE match timing follows specific procedures, with penalties assessed for fouls and rule violations; robot interactions are governed by strict guidelines for safety.
Match Timing and Procedures
Each FTC CENTERSTAGE match consists of a defined period, typically beginning with a 30-second autonomous phase where robots operate independently based on pre-programmed instructions. Following this, a 2 minute and 30-second driver-controlled period commences, allowing teams to strategically maneuver their robots to score points. A brief end-game period of 30 seconds follows, focused on parking or suspending robots for additional points.
Matches begin with a starting configuration and robots must remain within the designated field perimeter. Referees closely monitor gameplay, enforcing rules and addressing any violations. Teams are expected to adhere to the match schedule and be prepared for timely robot deployment. Any delays or technical issues impacting match flow may result in penalties, emphasizing the importance of pre-match preparation and reliable robot functionality.
Penalties and Fouls
FTC CENTERSTAGE outlines specific penalties for rule infractions, ranging from minor warnings to significant point deductions. Common fouls include illegally contacting opponent robots, exceeding size or weight restrictions, and violating field element interaction rules. Repeated or severe violations can lead to robot disqualification from a match.
Referees have the authority to assess penalties during gameplay, clearly communicating the infraction and its consequence. Teams can appeal penalty calls, but the referee’s decision is generally final. Understanding and avoiding penalties is crucial for maximizing scoring potential and maintaining fair play. A detailed list of fouls and corresponding penalties is provided within the official Game Manual Part 1 for comprehensive team guidance.
Robot Interaction Rules
FTC CENTERSTAGE establishes clear guidelines for robot-to-robot interaction to ensure safe and fair competition; Intentional ramming, trapping, or excessively disruptive contact is prohibited and will result in penalties. Defensive strategies are permitted, but must not involve damaging opponent robots or impeding their ability to perform game tasks.
Incidental contact resulting from normal gameplay is generally allowed, but teams are responsible for designing robots that minimize the potential for harmful interactions. Robots must not intentionally detach components from opposing robots. These rules promote strategic gameplay while prioritizing robot integrity and player safety, as detailed in Game Manual Part 1.
Driver Station and Control System Requirements
FTC CENTERSTAGE mandates specific requirements for the Driver Station and control system to ensure standardized and reliable operation. Teams must utilize the FTC Driver Station app, compatible with designated operating systems, for robot control and data acquisition. The FTC Robot Controller app is also essential, managing robot functions based on driver input.
Connectivity between the Driver Station and Robot Controller must adhere to established communication protocols. Teams are responsible for configuring the Robot Controller app correctly and ensuring stable wireless communication. Adherence to these requirements, outlined in the official documentation, guarantees fair play and consistent performance throughout the competition.
Technology and Software
FTC utilizes the FTC SDK, Robot Controller app, and Driver Station app for development and operation; teams must leverage these tools effectively.
FTC SDK and Programming Languages
The FTC Software Development Kit (SDK) provides the foundational tools for robot programming, enabling teams to control hardware and implement game strategies. Supported programming languages include Java and Python, offering flexibility based on team preference and experience. The SDK incorporates libraries for sensor integration, motor control, and communication with the Robot Controller.
Robot Controller App Configuration
The FTC Robot Controller App serves as the central hub for executing robot code and managing hardware connections. Configuration involves establishing communication between the app, the robot controller, and all connected sensors and actuators. Teams must carefully configure the app to accurately reflect their robot’s hardware setup, including motor channels, sensor ports, and servo configurations.
Proper configuration ensures seamless data flow and precise control. The app allows for real-time monitoring of sensor values and debugging of code. Teams should thoroughly test their configurations before each match to prevent unexpected behavior. Detailed instructions and troubleshooting guides are available within the FTC documentation, aiding in a successful setup for CENTERSTAGE competition.
Driver Station App Functionality
The FTC Driver Station App provides the primary interface for controlling the robot during a match in CENTERSTAGE. It facilitates operator input through joysticks, buttons, and other control elements, transmitting commands to the robot controller. The app displays crucial real-time data, including sensor readings, battery voltage, and robot status, aiding strategic decision-making.
Beyond control, the Driver Station App offers debugging tools and a console for viewing program output. Teams can utilize this functionality to diagnose issues and refine their code. Effective use of the app’s features is paramount for maximizing performance and adapting to dynamic game situations throughout the competition.
Sensor Integration and Data Acquisition
Successful CENTERSTAGE robot performance relies heavily on effective sensor integration and data acquisition. The FTC SDK supports a wide array of sensors, enabling robots to perceive their environment and react accordingly. Teams can leverage sensors for tasks like pixel detection, drone positioning, and autonomous navigation.
Data acquired from these sensors is processed by the robot’s control system, informing strategic decisions and precise movements. Proper calibration and filtering of sensor data are crucial for accuracy. Understanding sensor limitations and implementing robust error handling are essential for reliable operation during matches, maximizing scoring potential.
Inspection and Qualification
CENTERSTAGE robots undergo rigorous inspection, adhering to a detailed checklist, ensuring safety and compliance before qualification matches begin for competitive play.
Robot Inspection Checklist
The Robot Inspection Checklist is a critical component of FTC CENTERSTAGE, ensuring all robots meet safety and regulatory standards before competing. Inspectors verify robot dimensions and weight limits are within specifications, confirming adherence to size and weight restrictions. A thorough examination of permitted and prohibited materials is conducted, alongside a functional assessment of all sensors and actuators.
Electrical systems are scrutinized for proper wiring, secure connections, and battery safety. The robot controller app configuration is checked for compliance with FTC guidelines. Inspectors also confirm the driver station and control system meet all requirements. Finally, a comprehensive safety review is performed, addressing potential hazards and ensuring responsible robot operation throughout the competition. Successful completion of this checklist is mandatory for qualification.
Qualification Match Procedures
Qualification Matches in FTC CENTERSTAGE determine team rankings for advancement to the elimination rounds. Each team participates in a series of randomly assigned matches against other teams, aiming to maximize their score through strategic gameplay. Match timing follows a strict schedule, including autonomous and driver control periods.
Teams must adhere to all game rules and regulations during these matches, avoiding penalties and fouls that could impact their score. Accurate data acquisition from sensors is crucial for effective robot control and performance evaluation. Successful qualification relies on consistent performance, strategic alliance formation, and adherence to pre-match inspection protocols, ensuring a fair and competitive environment.
Safety Regulations and Compliance
Safety is paramount in FTC CENTERSTAGE. Teams must rigorously comply with all outlined safety regulations, encompassing robot design, construction, and operation. This includes adherence to size and weight restrictions, permitted material usage, and proper electrical wiring practices. A comprehensive Robot Inspection Checklist ensures all robots meet safety standards before competition.
Teams are responsible for understanding and implementing safe driver station practices and control system requirements. Any modifications or deviations from established guidelines require prior approval. Strict adherence to these regulations minimizes risks and fosters a secure competitive environment for all participants, prioritizing well-being above all else.
Pre-Match Inspection Protocols
Pre-Match Inspection is a critical phase in FTC CENTERSTAGE, ensuring robot compliance and safety. Inspectors will meticulously review robots against the official Robot Inspection Checklist, verifying adherence to all rules regarding size, weight, materials, and functionality. This includes checking electrical connections, securing all components, and confirming proper sensor integration.
Teams must present a fully functional robot ready for competition. Any identified deficiencies must be rectified before the robot is cleared for matches. Inspectors prioritize safety and fair play, ensuring all robots meet established standards. Successful completion of inspection is mandatory for participation in qualification and elimination rounds.
Advanced Strategies and Tactics
CENTERSTAGE success demands strategic alliance considerations, optimized endgame maneuvers (parking/suspension), efficient pixel management, and precise drone launch timing for maximum points.
Alliance Strategy Considerations
Effective alliance strategy in CENTERSTAGE necessitates a thorough assessment of each team’s robot capabilities and specialization. Teams should collaboratively identify complementary roles – focusing on pixel acquisition, precise placement within scoring zones (Backstage, Stage, Rigging), and drone launching proficiency.
Communication is paramount; alliances must establish clear signaling protocols for coordinated actions during matches. Prioritize maximizing point accumulation through synergistic gameplay, avoiding redundant efforts. Consider a designated “endgame specialist” to secure crucial parking or suspension points.
Analyzing opponent alliances and anticipating their strategies is also vital. Adaptability is key; be prepared to adjust pre-match plans based on observed performance during qualification matches. A well-defined strategy, coupled with seamless execution, significantly increases the likelihood of success in CENTERSTAGE.
Endgame Strategies: Parking and Suspension
The endgame phase in CENTERSTAGE offers substantial scoring opportunities through parking and suspension. Robots parked in the Backstage area earn five points, while those suspended by the Rigging structure yield a significant twenty points. Strategic prioritization of these actions is crucial for maximizing final scores.
Teams should design robots with robust climbing mechanisms capable of reliably achieving suspension. Practice consistent execution of endgame routines under pressure. Consider alliance-wide coordination; one robot might focus solely on parking to free up others for higher-value suspension attempts.
Reliability is paramount – a failed endgame attempt can be detrimental. Develop contingency plans in case of mechanical issues or unexpected interference. Successful endgame execution often determines match outcomes in CENTERSTAGE.
Pixel Management and Distribution
Effective pixel management is central to success in CENTERSTAGE. Teams must efficiently acquire, transport, and accurately place pixels into the designated Scoring Zones – Backstage, Stage, and Rigging. A well-defined pixel distribution strategy, coordinated within the alliance, is essential for maximizing point accumulation.
Consider robot designs that facilitate rapid pixel intake and secure holding mechanisms to prevent drops during transit. Develop automated or semi-automated pixel placement systems for precision and speed. Prioritize pixel delivery to the highest-value scoring locations based on real-time game conditions.
Anticipate opponent interference and plan for pixel retrieval from contested areas. Efficient pixel flow directly translates to higher scores and a competitive advantage.
Drone Launch Timing and Accuracy
Successful drone launches are a significant scoring component in CENTERSTAGE, demanding precise timing and accuracy. Teams must master the mechanics of drone acquisition and launching procedures to consistently deliver drones to the designated scoring areas. Strategic launch timing, synchronized with alliance partner actions, is crucial for maximizing points.
Develop robust drone release mechanisms ensuring reliable launches without premature deployment. Implement sensor-based systems or visual targeting to enhance launch accuracy. Practice launch sequences extensively to minimize errors and optimize flight paths.
Remember, drones cannot be acquired once launched. Careful planning and execution are paramount for effective drone scoring.