The robots battle in an arena ringed by plexiglass. Surrounding the edge of the field, in constant motion, are six powerful flippers, ready to tip over any robot venturing too close to the edge. In addition, two hockey-like nets jut out onto the playing field. At random intervals, they fall, hopelessly ensnaring anything caught beneath them. The most dangerous hazard of all, however, is the Ball of Death, a large, iron bowling ball hanging from a long chain, swinging with fierce momentum, knocking robots in its path clear into the 21st Century. A neutral robo-cam roams the battlefield, capturing the action up-close and beaming it to two large video screens.

Each metal warrior goes head-to-head with a competitor in its weight class. The pairings are random. There's no room here for robots with malfunctioning hydraulics or defective saws. Each round lasts five minutes, within which the robots must destroy, overpower, or immobilize their opponents. The rules forbid lasers and flame-throwers. Flying robots are not permitted. No liquid weaponry (water, glue, etc.), or expandable foam. The robots can be powered only by electricity or gasoline.

The victor is determined both by crowd response and point totals by the judges. Points are given by the judges for aggressiveness, damage, and control. The winners of each weight class advance through elimination rounds until the finalists duel for the championship.