2026 Entry Pass

O.M.C. Definitions

Original entries are your own design, not a direct copy of an existing mech or character. Originality is about identity, not “weirdness,” and should feel like your style.

Mecha are more than a vehicle, machine, or tool. A mech is a robotic machine with anatomical traits, meaning they take inspiration from living forms and should feel like a character, not just equipment.

Contest entries are shared as an international show-and-tell, with prizes as a bonus. If you want a more competitive, high-stakes experience, enter the Pro Division and bring your best work!

Rules

Builds must be started after February 1 each season.

  • Anyone can enter.

  • No entry fee.

  • No pre-registration.

  • Timeline: February 1 - October 31

Build Requirements

  • Handmade: Models must be scratchbuilt, kitbashed, sculpted, etc.

  • Original: Create a new identity, rather than a simple modification. Painting an existing model kit is not allowed.

  • Physical: No 3D renders or drawings.

  • Manual: Computer-aided parts (CNC, 3D print, laser cut) must not exceed approximately 15% of the total build volume.

Photos & Entry Pass

  • Verification: Take four (4) "Work-In-Progress" photos with the Entry Pass (see above) visible.

  • Final Photos: Take five (5) high-quality photos for the judges.

  • Video (optional): For use by the judges during scoring.

    • Link to a video of the completed model from a recognized and trusted website (YouTube, Google Drive, Vimeo, etc). Unknown websites will be ignored.

    • The video will not be included in the final showcase due to logistics, so there are no requirements for aspect ratio, length, or audio.

    • AI generated videos will be ignored. We want to see YOUR work.

Divisions

  • Maximum of two models per person (1 Standard + 1 CupCup)

  • Standard Divisions: Choose one of the following.

    • Main Division: The general category.

    • Pro Division: For experienced builders and previous 1st-place winners.

  • CupCup Division: Low-stakes casual category for fun!

    • Builds must fit inside a 15 cm (6 inch) cube.

    • Must include a "cup" object; bottles, droppers, various containers are allowed.

    • Must include this year’s special object:

      • 2026 will require a pen. The pen and cup must be integral to the mech’s design. More than one pen and cup is also allowed.

Judging

  • Entries are scored using a standardized rubric:

    • 10 points for Skill and Technique

    • 10 points for Design and Originality

    • 5 points for Impact and “Wow” Factor

  • 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place ranks will be listed in the archive.

  • Special awards will be given regardless of division or score.

  • Sponsored prizes will be assigned in the following order:

    • 1st place Pro, Main, and CupCup Division

    • Special Awards

    • 2nd place Pro, Main, and CupCup Division

    • 3rd place Pro, Main and CupCup Division

    • Remaining prizes given in score order while supplies last.

Special Awards

  • Best Junior Entry - given to the highest scoring junior entry (16 years old and younger).

  • King of All Mecha - given to the highest score of a community poll.

  • Peculiar Award - given to the most outlandish design with the highest score.

  • Recyclist Award - given to the model with the highest score among entries primarily using found materials.

Submission