RobotBattle
A student-centered robotics challenge for young innovators.
RobotBattle is a hands-on robotics competition created by CARAT for elementary and middle school students. Teams design, build, and drive robots through fun, age-appropriate game challenges that focus on creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork.
What is RobotBattle?
RobotBattle is a robotics competition designed to be welcoming, fun, and educational. It is built for students who are new to robotics as well as teams who want more opportunities to practice their engineering and collaboration skills.
The event focuses on learning by doing: students brainstorm strategies, build robots, test and iterate their designs, and work together under time pressure in a friendly, supportive environment.
Divisions for different ages
Grades 1–2
LEGO Spike Essential Division
Young learners explore basic robotics and coding concepts through playful missions that introduce sensors, motors, and simple problem-solving.
Grades 3–4
VEX GO Division
Students build small robots to complete themed games, learning about mechanisms, strategy, and working together as a team.
Grades 5–6
VEX IQ Division
Teams design more advanced robots, experiment with different mechanisms, and begin to explore autonomous routines and match strategy.
How RobotBattle works
- Team-based: Students work in small teams to design, build, and program their robot.
- Game-based challenge: Each season features a themed playing field and scoring tasks tailored to each division.
- Match play: Teams compete in timed matches, earning points by completing missions and driving with accuracy and strategy.
- Iteration encouraged: Between matches, students are encouraged to refine their robots and improve their plans.
- Guided by mentors: Coaches and mentors support teams, but students are at the center of decision-making and problem-solving.
Why RobotBattle?
Student-centered learning
RobotBattle is designed so that students drive the learning process: they generate ideas, troubleshoot issues, and make strategic decisions as a team.
Skill-building for the future
Students develop critical thinking, communication, and technical skills that connect directly to future learning in robotics, AI, and engineering.
Welcoming and inclusive
The event is designed to be friendly to new teams and schools. The emphasis is on learning, growth, and having fun—not just winning trophies.
Event format
Typical schedule
- Check-in and pit setup
- Opening ceremony and game briefing
- Practice rounds and robot adjustments
- Qualification matches
- Awards and closing celebration
Awards & recognition
- Robot Performance Awards
- Teamwork & Collaboration Award
- Innovation in Design Award
- Rising Team Award for new teams
Who can participate?
- School teams
- Community and after-school programs
- Independent teams with a coach or mentor
Ready to bring RobotBattle to your students?
Contact the CARAT team to learn how to register a team, host an event, or partner with us.