THE GAME RULES
What is Drone Soccer?
Drone soccer is a fast-paced, tactical team sport where players pilot drones inside a netted arena.
The objective is to score points by flying a drone through the opponent's goal while defending your own.
The Objective
Here are the more detailed rules, covering gameplay strategies, attacking, defending, substitutions, and more.
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Team Composition & Roles
Team Size
Each team consists of 3 to 5 players, with each pilot controlling on drone.
Roles - Striker
The primary player who attempts to score goals by flying their drone through the opponent's goal.
Roles - Defenders
Players who focus on preventing the opposing striker from scoring and proecting their own goal.
Roles - Goalkeeper
Some teams assign a specific player as the goalkeeper, whose main job is to block or intercept goals.
Game Structure
Match Duration
Matches are played in two sets, with each set lasting four minutes. The total match time is typically 8 minutes.
Starting Play
Each set begins with all drones in their designated starting areas. The game starts when the referee signals, and players can begin flying immediately.
Scoring
A team scores by flying their Striker drone through the opponent's goal (hoop), located at either end of the arena. After scoring, the team must return all drones to their side of the arena before attempting another goal.
Gameplay Strategies
ATTACKING
Solo Play
The striker will typically try to fly their drone quickly and skilfully through the opponent’s goal. To succeed, the striker must master quick turns, agility, and precise control.
Passing
Teams can pass the ball between drones to set up a goal, allowing for better angles and higher chances of scoring. The passing drone will work to clear the path for the striker.
Deceptive Moves
To confuse defenders, attackers can use their skills to trick or misdirect their opponents, making it harder for the defenders to predict their next move.
DEFENDING
Goalkeeper Role
The goalkeeper’s job is to prevent the striker from entering the goal area, often using defending moves to block shots.
Defensive Positioning
Defenders must work together to create barriers and disrupt the opposing striker’s path. Blocking the passing lanes or controlling the speed of play are key techniques.
Preventative Interceptions
Defenders may block moves and try to prevent the striker from getting a clear shot at the goal.
SUBSTITUTIONS
In-Game Substitutions
Teams can substitute drones or players during the match. Substitutions are allowed if a drone is damaged, malfunctioning, or needs maintenance, provided they don’t interrupt the flow of the game.
Strategic Substitutions
Substitutions can be used tactically to give players a rest or switch formations, depending on the match situation.
DRONE SPECIFICATIONS
Drones must be enclosed in a protective arena to prevent damage and ensure safety.
The drone’s weight, size, and battery limitations are regulated. Most drones in soccer weigh less than 300 grams and have a protective sphere diameter of about 220 mm.
FLIGHT RESTRICTIONS
Line of Sight
Pilots must keep their drones in clear sight at all times, meaning they can’t rely on FPV (First-Person View) goggles or other devices that obstruct their view.
Altitude Limits
Drones must remain below 120 meters (or a regionally designated safe limit), ensuring safety within the enclosed arena.
PENALTIES & VIOLATIONS
COLLISION RULES
No Intentional Collisions
Players are not allowed to crash into opponents’ drones on purpose. Accidental collisions may result in a minor penalty, but deliberate crashes can lead to disqualification or a time penalty.
Unfair Blocking
If a defender blocks a drone in an unsafe manner, such as by holding up their drone to stop an attacker, it’s considered unsportsmanlike conduct.
PENALTIES
Free Pass
If a rule is broken, such as by making an illegal block or causing a crash, the team at fault may be given a penalty, allowing the opposing team a free attempt at scoring without any interference.
Yellow/Red Cards
In professional leagues, players can receive yellow cards for minor offenses and red cards for severe violations, potentially leading to a temporary player suspension or disqualification
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ARENA SPECIFICATIONS
Field Size
The game is typically played in a rectangular, inflatable enclosed area of about 6.5M long and 4.5M wide, with netting on all sides to prevent drones from flying out.
Goal Size
Goals are large hoops suspended at either end of the field, positioned 2M above the ground, allowing drones to fly through them.
Obstacles
Some arenas might have additional obstacles or challenges that players need to navigate around, adding an extra layer of difficulty to the game.
SAFETY & COMPLIANCE
Regulations
Players must follow all local aviation safety rules, including those from regulatory bodies like the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) in Australia or the FAA in the United States. This includes keeping drones within safe distances from people and other drones.
Pre-Game Safety Checks
Before each match, drones are inspected for any damage, safety issues, or malfunctioning parts. Players also go through Pre-flight briefings to ensure safe flying practices.
WINNING THE MATCH
Victory Conditions
The team with the most goals at the end of the two sets wins the match. If the score is tied, extra time or a penalty round may be used to determine the winner.
Tiebraker
In case of a tie, the match can proceed to a penalty shootout, where each team sends their Striker to attempt scoring a goal under pressure, with only one opposition drone (goalkeeper) on the field at a time.
Drone soccer blends strategy, teamwork, and technical skills, making it an exciting and fast-paced game. It requires players to master their flying skills, communicate with teammates, and think on their feet. With clear rules in place, it ensures a fair, competitive environment for all involved.
Our Game in Numbers
2
TEAMS
10
PLAYERS
1
WINNER
DRONE SPECIFICATIONS
Innovative Design
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