Critter Crunch Robot Combat Competition

Critter Crunch is one of the earliest known public robot combat competitions, organized by the Denver Mad Scientists Club and held annually in Denver, Colorado. Competitors build remote-controlled "critters"—small, wheeled robots usually made from off‑the‑shelf parts and creative scrap materials—and battle them in a raised arena, trying to push or flip opponents off the platform. The event helped inspire later televised robot combat shows and remains a grassroots, maker‑style competition focused on ingenuity rather than expensive hardware. The contest is open to hobbyists and students, typically with separate divisions or informal accommodations for younger builders and families. While it is not a school-only or formally accredited high school competition, motivated high school students can and do participate, often under adult supervision and with adherence to the safety and build rules published by the organizers. Participants gain hands-on experience in mechanical design, electronics, fabrication, remote control systems, and strategic problem-solving, as well as the chance to collaborate with an experienced DIY and maker community.