NORWALK, Conn. — The National Havoc Robot League (NHRL) World Series took center stage in Norwalk, showcasing a thrilling spectacle of engineering ingenuity and competitive spirit. This highly anticipated event drew teams from around the globe, each vying for victory in the world of robot combat. The electrifying battles captivated audiences, both in person at the House of Havoc and through live streams to thousands of fans worldwide.
The Main Event
NHRL is the largest and most accessible robot combat league in the world, hosting championships in the 3lb, 12lb, and 30lb weight classes. With seven combat robotics tournaments yearly, competitors gather at the House of Havoc in Norwalk to combine groundbreaking technology and off-the-wall ideas. The goal? To compete for thousands of dollars in cash prizes and claim the coveted Golden Dumpster.
Robot Combat itself is a safe, friendly, and slightly chaotic iSport. Builders control robots equipped with innovative weapons and ingenious defenses, battling head-to-head in an enclosed cage with the goal of knocking each other out of commission. While versions of the sport have been featured on popular TV shows like Battlebots and Robot Wars, NHRL offers a more accessible platform for newcomers and seasoned builders.
One of the standout moments of this year’s competition was team Pandamonium’s unexpected victory against defending world champion Emulsifier. Michael Cross, a member of Pandamonium from Greenfield, Mass., said the win was “surreal.” So did the co-captain and husband and wife duo, Ariel and Kevin Biagini. They said the win was “wildly unexpected and emotional.”
Cross began his journey in robot combat not as a builder but as a spectator. At an NHRL event, he was holding a “New Builder Mentor Wanted” sign, Which caught the attention of NHRL CEO Kelly Biderman. She personally emailed him and helped him get started in the sport by pairing him with a mentor, Corey Mason, who guided him through the design and building process.
Cross, who had no engineering background and works in auto parts sales, credits Biderman and Mason for his success.
“Failure is the best teacher,” Cross said, emphasizing that his newfound passion has inspired his children. Pandemonium, has grown into a collective of 13 members and dozens of robots, with about half of the team working in STEM fields. The team’s collaborative and unexpected journey has been deeply emotional, bringing them close-knit moments of triumph and camaraderie.
NHRL’s Role in STEM Education
The National Havoc Robot League (NHRL) not only hosts thrilling robot combat tournaments but also supports the growth of STEM education. In 2022, NHRL’s founder, Austin McChord, pledged a $1 million donation to STEM charities chosen by the year’s championship finalists. Additionally, in 2023, another $1 million was granted to collegiate robotics teams, helping foster the next generation of engineers and innovators in the field of robotics. They also provide various programs and activities aimed at engaging kids in the exciting world of robotics and combat robots.
Havoc Academy’s Crash Course
For aspiring builders, Havoc Academy sells Crash Course kits, an all-in-one solution designed for new and intermediate competitors. The ERIC kit provides all the parts needed to create a functional combat robot. It uses the same materials as NHRL champions, making it perfect for repurposing in future projects. Over 20 master class videos guide users through building ERIC while teaching essential skills and combat strategies.
Crash Course participants also gain access to a dedicated Discord channel, where mentors and community members offer real-time feedback. When builders are ready to compete, they receive one-on-one support from experienced NHRL staff or builders, ensuring a seamless entry into their first tournament. Members also enjoy priority registration for NHRL qualifying and freestyle events, giving them a competitive edge.
The Rise of “iSports”
What Are iSports?
Interactive sports, or iSports, merge traditional competition with technology-driven innovation. Robot combat is at the forefront of this movement, blending engineering challenges with the thrill of competitive sports. NHRL exemplifies this trend, breaking down barriers between tech enthusiasts and sports fans.
Conclusion
The NHRL World Series is more than a competition; it celebrates creativity, innovation, and community. From engaging STEM programs for youth to breaking new ground in iSports, the NHRL has carved out a unique space in both the tech and sports worlds.
For those who missed the action, the growing popularity and accessibility of robot combat mean there’s always a chance to engage with future NHRL events. Whether as a competitor, a fan, or a student inspired by the ingenuity on display, the world of robot combat is ready to welcome you.
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