Dan Kohn's Blog

From: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1d7FoPzZnJ/

Hello Everyone,

Our team just published an analysis few days ago to discuss the coming changes for FLL:

Analyzing the FLL New Era (2026+): Implications for Your Team

https://youtu.be/wF3ikEcElH0?si=_W4XD_GaFRyPBvTY

We break down the latest updates to upcoming FLL robot games, including smart sensors, remote control, and interactive mission models:
How gameplay is changing from “launch and watch” to interactive missions
Pros & cons of the new system for students and teams
Team size, mentorship, and progression implications
Whether you’re a coach, parent, or student, this video will help you understand what these changes mean for FLL participation and competitive strategy.

Here are our conclusions:

✅ Pros
Lower technical barrier to entry
More interactive and engaging gameplay
Stronger emphasis on teamwork and defined roles
⚠️ Cons
High transition costs for teams
Increased mentoring demands
A shift in progression for advanced students

For 7th–8th graders seeking greater technical depth and competitive challenge, we strongly recommend considering programs like FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) or VEX Robotics.
Please feel free to share your comments! Thank you!