DECODE Presented by RTX

DECODE is the official 2025–2026 FIRST Tech Challenge game presented by RTX. The theme centers on deciphering patterns and uncovering discoveries, tying into innovation and STEM exploration as teams build robots to “unlock mysteries and uncover the future.”

Basic Game Structure

  • FTC matches are played between two alliances of two teams each on a standardized 12 ft × 12 ft field.
  • A match is divided into three phases:
    1. Autonomous (30 seconds) – Robots operate based on pre-programmed instructions.
    2. Driver-Controlled / Tele-Op (2 minutes) – Human drivers control the robot.
    3. Endgame (final portion of Tele-Op) – Special scoring opportunities and objectives must be completed near the end of the match.

Core Game Objectives

While the official manual contains all details, DECODE’s major objectives generally include:

🟡 Scoring Artifacts

  • Robots manipulate and score game elements (often called artifacts) into goals or scoring locations.
  • Artifacts may come in different colors/types, each with unique point values.

🔄 Patterns & Motifs

  • Teams are encouraged to build patterns or specific arrangements with artifacts — achieving correct motif patterns can yield significant bonus points and ranking advantages.

🏁 Robot Positioning

  • Endgame scoring often includes bringing robots back to a base zone or another strategic zone at the end of the match to earn additional points.

📊 Ranking Points

  • In addition to raw points, teams earn ranking points (RPs) for completing key objectives (like patterns or movement benchmarks) which influence tournament standings.

Design, Strategy & Skills

  • Teams must design, build, and program a robot capable of:
    • Navigating the field efficiently
    • Scoring artifacts reliably
    • Completing endgame tasks
    • Adapting to both autonomous and driver-controlled play
  • Achieving balance between speed, precision, and strategy is critical for success.

Team Experience

In DECODE, as with all FTC games, success isn’t just about match performance — teams also:

  • Iterate their robot designs over the season.
  • Practice coding and autonomous strategies.
  • Learn engineering and teamwork skills.
  • Participate in judged awards and portfolio submissions that can also contribute toward advancement.