FTC DECODE™
Welcome to the FTC DECODE™ Knowledge Base. This section provides a high-level overview of the 2025–2026 FIRST Tech Challenge game, including how matches work, how points are scored, and the key rules every team should understand.
What is DECODE™?
DECODE™ is the 2025–2026 FIRST Tech Challenge game. Teams design, build, and program robots to score game elements, complete patterns, and earn bonus points while competing as part of an ALLIANCE.
Match Structure
Each MATCH is played by two ALLIANCES, with two ROBOTS on each ALLIANCE. Matches are split into three main phases:
Autonomous: Robots run pre-programmed code with no driver input.
Driver-Controlled (TeleOp): Drivers control the robot.
End Game: Final scoring actions and ROBOT positioning.
Scoring Overview
Points are earned by interacting with ARTIFACTS, completing PATTERNS, and positioning ROBOTS correctly on the FIELD.
Actions completed during Autonomous are typically worth more points than the same actions during Driver-Controlled play.
Main Rules
All robots must pass inspection before competing. Robots must stay within size, weight, and safety limits defined in the competition manual.
Unsafe behaviour, rule violations, or intentional damage to the field or other robots can result in penalties or disqualification.
FIRST Values
FIRST competitions are built around Gracious Professionalism® and Coopertition®. Teams are expected to compete hard, help others, and treat everyone with respect.