#STEM robotics kit

[kidstoysnews]

Best Robot Car Kit for Kids

Looking for an engaging way to introduce your kids to robotics and programming? The ELEGOO UNO R3 Smart Robot Car Kit is a fantastic choice. It’s designed to give children hands-on experience with electronics and coding. This kit includes everything you need to build a smart robot car. With parts like obstacle avoidance and line tracing modules, and the option to control it via a smartphone, it’s…

[ruchinimbre]

BLIX CARS-1 – ROBOTICS FOR KIDS This Blix robot kit for kids maybe be small in size but it’s big in excitement. 4 large tires and specially designed mudguards add tremendous appeal to your creation. This is a fantastic first step to introduce a child to the construction system and towards strengthening their cognitive skill. . . SHOP - https://blix.in/products/blix-cars-1-robotics-for-kids

[cosmosjourney1]

🧪 Science Toys 2025: Fun Experiments Every Age Group Loves

🔬 Why Science Toys Are Everywhere in 2025 In 2025, science toys are not just for science fairs. From toddlers to seniors, everyone is enjoying hands-on experiments that mix fun with learning. Parents prefer toys that teach real-world concepts. Schools, hobby clubs, and even retirement homes are using science kits for engagement and education. Benefits of science toys: Build curiosity and…

[groovykingcat]

The Top 10 Kids' Robotics Kits All Children Will Enjoy

As a parent today, providing a jump-start for your child in the STEM field has never been more crucial. Learning robotics for children has been a great and strong means to trigger curiosity, motivate problem-solving skills, and gain practical expertise in science, technology, engineering, and math. The perfect robotics kits entertain only to an extent—they teach youngsters to invent, code, and engineer. 

Whether you are a parent, educator, or just want to give something educational, this top 10 list of best robotics kits is designed to cater to a range of interests, skill levels, and age ranges. These kits marry learning and fun, making learning robotics engaging and easy. 

1. LEGO Boost Creative Toolbox 

One of the best-selling LEGO robotics kits for young learners, the LEGO Boost combines old-school LEGO construction with easy-to-use coding via a visual app interface. Children can construct 5 multipurpose models, such as a robot called *Vernie*, and animate their creations with block-based coding. 

Age Range: 7–12 years 

Why Kids Love It: Merges LEGO and coding. 

Skills Learned: Fundamental programming, mechanical engineering, robotics learning concepts. 

2. Makeblock mBot Neo 

The mBot Neo is a user-friendly yet powerful robot building kit designed for coding beginners. It supports both block-based and Python coding, making it ideal for progressing as kids grow. It also features AI and IoT functions to deepen the learning experience. 

Age Range: 8–12 years 

Why Kids Love It: Real-life coding and smart features like obstacle avoidance. 

Skills Learned: Programming logic, sensors, robotics for children. 

3. Sphero BOLT 

Sphero BOLT is a ball-shaped robot that children can program through a tablet or smartphone. Its LED matrix and sensors make it extremely interactive, and it's perfect for beginners and advanced young programmers alike. 

Age Range: 8+ years 

Why Kids Love It: It's like programming a rolling, glowing pet robot. 

Skills Learned: JavaScript basics, problem-solving, robotics. 

4. Thames & Kosmos Kids First Coding & Robotics 

This STEM toy is ideal for young beginners not yet ready for computer-based coding. It employs a narrative-style strategy with a charming robot named Cody that children code with physical code cards. 

Age Range: 4–8 years 

Why Kids Love It: Imaginative and screen-free. 

Skills Learned: Sequencing, logic, basic robotics learning principles. 

5. Wonder Workshop Dash Robot 

Dash is a ready-to-assemble robot that children can program with visual coding apps. With sensors, lights, and sounds, Dash provides hours of creative play and **kids' robotics** experiences. 

Age Range: 6–11 years 

Why Kids Love It: Interactive voice commands and unlimited activities. 

Skills Learned: Coding, engineering design, robotics. 

6. LEGO Mindstorms Robot Inventor 

A higher-level LEGO robotics kit, the LEGO Mindstorms Robot Inventor is perfect for children who are ready to delve into more advanced engineering and programming principles. It integrates LEGO building with motors and sensors to produce 5 distinct robotic models. 

Age Range: 10+ years 

Why Kids Love It: Advanced LEGO robots that can walk, talk, and play games. 

Skills Learned: Python and Scratch programming, robotics systems, mechanical engineering. 

7. Botley 2.0 by Learning Resources 

Botley is a screen-free coding toy that teaches basic programming concepts with a remote programmer. The new 2.0 version has additional features such as night vision, dancing, and music. 

Age Range: 5–9 years 

Why Kids Love It: Interactive challenges and screen-free design. 

Skills Learned: Logic, critical thinking, early coding. 

8. Ubtech Jimu Robot Kit – Astrobot Series 

This award-winning robot construction kit allows children to create their own robots and bring them to life with Blockly coding. Equipped with servo motors and LED lights, the Jimu Astrobot brings robots to life. 

Age Range: 8–14 years 

Why Kids Love It: Build awesome robots that move and interact. 

Skills Learned: Engineering, robotics learning, creative design. 

9. Ozobot Evo 

Ozobot Evo is a small robot that children can program with colored markers or an app. It's an excellent introduction to both on-screen and unplugged coding. 

Age Range: 6–12 years 

Why Kids Love It: It can follow color paths and respond to colors. 

Skills Learned: Color-coded logic, creativity, basic programming. 

10. Robobloq Qobo Coding Robot 

For pre-school children only beginning their robotics learning, Qobo is a cute robot snail that teaches beginner logic by doing fun, interactive puzzles. The robot is coded with cards, instructing it to go various directions and into stories. 

Age Range: 3–7 years 

Why Kids Love It: Narrative-based learning through a cute robot. 

Skills Learned: Sequencing, problem-solving, introductory robotics. 

Things to Look For When Picking a Robotics Kit 

When choosing a robotics kit for your child, consider the following few things: 

1. Age Appropriateness 

Choose a kit that is appropriate to your child's age. Younger children appreciate screen-free kits, whereas older children can handle kits that use actual coding languages such as Python or Scratch. 

2. Type of Coding Interface 

Some kits have graphical, drag-and-drop interfaces suited to beginners, but others gradually advance to coding through text input for more complex users. 

3. Reusability and Expandability 

Opt for kits expandable with your child's progress. Kits expandable with optional packs or featuring open-ended challenge types are benefits. 

 4. Educational Value 

A proper STEM toy is one not only of fun but of instruction in notions such as engineering, logic, sequencing, cause-and-effect, etc. 

5. Engagement and Fun 

In the end, the greatest robotics kits are those that get children enthused and hooked. Seek kits that provide artistic freedom, storytelling, or competition-based gameplay. 

Why Robotics Is the Future of Learning 

Robotics is not merely a buzz term—it's the door to 21st-century skills. By way of robotics for kids, kids learn to analyze complicated issues, work in groups, and learn about the digital world they're growing up in. 

From constructing their first robot to coding its movements, children get to feel the excitement of bringing their creations to life. And with the advent of coding toys and robot building kits, learning has never been more fun. 

Advantages of introducing children to robotics at an early age include: 

* Enhancing critical thinking and analytical minds 

* Increased creativity and design thinking 

* An early start in future tech careers 

* Better academic performance in STEM subjects 

Get Started with a Free Robotics Webinar! 

If you’re ready to explore the world of robotics for kids, there’s no better way to begin than by attending a free webinar designed specifically for young learners and their parents. 

Join Guruface’s Free Webinar on Robotics for Kids 

This webinar is full of engaging activities, live robot demonstrations, and knowledge about how robotics can change your child's future. If you're new to the concept or already researching options, this free seminar is a great way to get educated before committing to a kit. 

Here at Guruface, we are of the opinion that every child must have access to tools and inspiration which will help them become the visionaries of tomorrow. With the guidance of professional sessions and live teaching practices, your child shall be initiated to the thrilling process of robotics learning in a congenial and delightful atmosphere. 

Last Words 

The world is changing quickly—and the children who will do well in it are those that know how to think, code, and make things. Putting your money in the appropriate robotics kits and experiences early on can be the foundation of a life filled with wonder and achievement. Ranging from LEGO robotics kits through sophisticated coding toys, there's something in this lineup for any child that wants to invent. 

Don't miss an opportunity to explore whether robotics can work for your child. 

Click here to sign up for the Free Robotics Webinar by Guruface: https://guruface.com/webinar/free-webinar-on-robotics-for-kids/289 

Let the learning—and the fun—start!

[obotzglobal]

Robotics is one of the rising industry sectors where the need for robotics-based education and technology-based learning is increasing.

In the wake of growing interest in Robotics education, starting your Robotics Franchise is one of the highly appealing ventures for prospective entrepreneurs. However, like all other businesses, there is an element of understanding costs and investments.

This guide "The Cost of Starting a Robotics Franchise: What You Need to Know", will find its way through the financial nitty-gritties involved with robotics franchise initiation, particularly with special focus placed on Robotics Franchise in India.

[respirelearning]

Benefits of Experiential Learning for Teaching STEM to Children

Introduction

Teaching STEM to children is essential for fostering a love for learning and curiosity about the world. Experiential STEM learning, a method where students learn through hands-on experiences, is increasingly being integrated into STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education. This approach makes learning more engaging and equips students with the skills they need for the future. At Respire Learning, we aim to transform children's education through experiential learning. Our STEM Kits provide hands-on activities that introduce children to science, technology, engineering, and math concepts engagingly and interactively. With Robotics Kits, students can dive into programming and automation, learning to build and control their robots. Our DIY Models foster creativity and problem-solving by allowing students to assemble projects independently. These Experiential Learning Kits are designed to ignite curiosity, promote critical thinking, and inspire the next generation of innovators.

What is Experiential Learning?

Experiential learning involves learning through direct experience and reflection. Unlike traditional methods that rely heavily on lectures and rote memorization, experiential learning emphasizes active participation and practical application. This method allows students to explore, experiment, and learn from their successes and mistakes.

Respire’s agenda to focus on STEM Education

STEM education focuses on teaching students in an integrated manner, combining science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. It's designed to prepare students for the complexities of the modern world. Experiential learning fits seamlessly into STEM education, as both prioritize critical thinking, problem-solving, and real-world application.

Advantages of Experiential Learning

Enhances Understanding and Retention Experiential learning helps students understand and remember concepts better by involving them in activities that require active engagement. Students participating in experiments or projects are more likely to retain the information.

Encourages Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Hands-on activities require students to think critically and solve problems. This approach fosters a deeper understanding of scientific principles and enhances students' ability to apply knowledge in various situations. Promotes Engagement and Motivation Experiential learning makes STEM fun and interesting. Students are more motivated to learn when they can see the relevance of their studies and actively participate in the learning process. Develops Practical Skills Through experiential learning, students develop practical skills essential in the real world. These skills include teamwork, communication, and technical abilities crucial for future success. Respire’s Experiential Learning Kits Experiential learning kits are tools designed to provide hands-on learning experiences. These kits include materials and instructions for conducting experiments and activities. They are tailored to different age groups and educational levels, making STEM accessible and enjoyable for all students. Examples of Popular Kits for Teaching STEM

STEM Kits: These kits cover various subjects like electronics, engineering, chemistry, and physics, providing comprehensive learning experiences.

DIY Kits: These kits allow students to conduct experiments at home, fostering a love for learning outside the classroom.

Robotics Kits: These robotics kits teach students about advanced-level engineering and technology through building and programming robots.

Implementing STEM Labs in the Classroom

Teachers can integrate experiential learning into their classrooms using kits and hands-on activities. Here are some strategies:

Strategies for Teachers

Incorporate Experiments: Regularly include experiments and practical activities in lesson plans.

Use Learning Kits: Utilize available experiential learning kits to make science lessons more interactive.

Encourage Group Work: Promote teamwork by having students work in groups on projects and experiments.

Integrating Kits and Hands-On Activities

Integrating kits into the curriculum can be seamless. Teachers can start with simple kits and gradually introduce more complex ones as students become more comfortable with hands-on learning.

Traditional Learning & Learning in STEM Lab

Common Obstacles in Experiential Learning

Limited Resources: Schools may need more resources for experiential learning.

Time Constraints: Hands-on activities can be time-consuming.

Teacher Training: Not all teachers are trained in experiential learning methods.

Benefits of STEM Lab

Experiential STEM Kits: students have a variety of kits in STEM with which they can do hands-on experiments with the teacher's guidance.

Look and Feel of the lab: Our Innovation lab is a specially curated space for children with a Montessori color combination that can promote learning in the gated space.  

Children's safe Equipment and kits: All the kits representing various subjects and their theories are perfectly safe for students to use from pre-primary to higher secondary education. 

Teacher Training: Teachers are specially trained to use high-functioning equipment easily, they also teach the importance of storytelling which can help students to make boring theories interesting.

Experiential Learning Beyond the Classroom

Learning continues beyond the classroom door. Parents and guardians can support experiential learning at home by providing resources and engaging in educational activities with their children.

Importance of Learning at Home and in the Community

Home Activities: Simple experiments and DIY kits can make learning STEM fun at home.

Community Resources: Local museums, science centers, and libraries often offer hands-on learning opportunities.

Future of Experiential Learning in STEM

The future of experiential learning in STEM education looks promising. With technological advancements and an increasing focus on hands-on learning, we can expect more innovative and effective methods to emerge.

Trends and Innovations

Virtual Reality (VR): VR can provide immersive learning experiences.

Online Platforms: Online resources and platforms can offer interactive science activities.

Predictions for the Future

As experiential learning continues to evolve and Indian government is implementing experiential learning by putting STEM education in the National Education Policy 2020 and evolving as time passes by. it will likely become a staple in education, preparing students for future challenges and making them tech-savvy.

Conclusion

Experiential learning offers numerous benefits for teaching STEM to children. Engaging students in hands-on activities can enhance their understanding, foster critical thinking, and develop practical skills. As we look to the future, it's clear that experiential learning will play a crucial role in STEM education in the Indian Education System.

FAQs

What is the main benefit of experiential learning in STEM education?

The main advantage is that it enhances understanding and retention by involving students in hands-on activities.

How can parents support experiential learning at home?

Parents can support experiential learning by providing DIY STEM kits and engaging in simple experiments with their children.

Are there any specific experiential learning kits for different age groups?

Yes, kits are designed for various age groups, from preschoolers to high school students, ensuring age-appropriate learning experiences.

What are some challenges teachers might face with experiential learning?

Teachers face challenges such as limited resources, time constraints, and the need for specialized training.

How does experiential learning prepare children for future careers?

Experiential learning develops practical skills, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities, essential for future jobs.

[robotsblog]

[veronika-y]

Discover the Joy of Hobbies: Releasing Your Passion and Locating Equilibrium

""

Leisure activities are not simply a method to pass the time; they are a vital component of a meeting and balanced life. Engaging in tasks that bring us delight and enable us to share our imagination can have a profound effect on our overall wellness. Whether it's painting, horticulture, playing a musical tool, or perhaps gathering stamps, pastimes provide an outlet for relaxation, personal development, and self-expression. In this fast-paced globe, where stress and exhaustion prevail, making the effort to grow leisure activities can aid us discover a feeling of purpose, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve our psychological health.The elegance of hobbies exists in their capacity to move us to a globe where time seems to stand still. When we engage ourselves in an activity we enjoy, we enter a state of circulation, where we are completely involved and focused on the existing moment. This state of circulation not just brings us immense happiness and satisfaction yet additionally aids us establish new skills and improve our imagination. Leisure activities additionally offer a possibility to link with similar people and construct new relationships. Joining clubs or groups focused around your leisure activity can introduce you to a community of people who share your interests, promoting a sense of belonging and camaraderie.

In conclusion, hobbies are not simply a method to fill our spare time; they are a gateway to personal growth, self-discovery, and a balanced life. By delighting in activities we love, we can locate delight, lower anxiety, and enhance our overall well-being. So, whether you are a seasoned enthusiast or somebody looking to discover new rate of interests, do not take too lightly the power of pastimes in changing your life for the better.

Read more here https://stem-robots.top/blog/product-reviews/best-picks-glowing-marble-run-magnetic-tiles-set-light-magnetic-building-blocks

[naseeeb]

Discover the Delight of Hobbies: Releasing Your Interest and Finding Balance

""

Leisure activities are not simply a way to kill time; they are an important part of a satisfying and balanced life. Taking part in tasks that bring us joy and enable us to reveal our creativity can have an extensive influence on our total well-being. Whether it's painting, horticulture, playing a music instrument, or perhaps collecting stamps, hobbies offer an outlet for relaxation, individual development, and self-expression. In this busy world, where stress and anxiety and fatigue are prevalent, taking the time to grow hobbies can help us locate a feeling of objective, minimize stress, and improve our psychological health.The beauty of leisure activities hinges on their capacity to deliver us to a globe where time seems to stall. When we involve ourselves in an activity we like, we get in a state of circulation, where we are totally involved and focused on the here and now minute. This state of circulation not only brings us tremendous joy and contentment however also assists us establish brand-new skills and improve our creative thinking. Hobbies likewise give an opportunity to get in touch with similar people and build brand-new connections. Signing up with clubs or groups focused around your leisure activity can introduce you to a community of people who share your rate of interests, fostering a sense of belonging and sociability.

Finally, hobbies are not simply a method to fill our leisure time; they are a gateway to individual growth, self-discovery, and a balanced life. By delighting in activities we love, we can discover delight, lower stress and anxiety, and boost our general well-being. So, whether you are a seasoned hobbyist or somebody seeking to discover new passions, don't take too lightly the power of hobbies in transforming your life right.

Read more here https://stem-robots.top/

[ruchinimbre]

BLIX CARS-2 – A Robotics Kit Designed for Kids This robot kit for kids brings the thrill of car building to a whole new level with its functional suspension system. With this single set, children can build 9 different types of vehicles—from a mono-shock racer to a dual-shock off-road buggy. The easy-to-build design encourages tinkering and lets kids experiment with creating their own models too. . . SHOP - https://blix.in/products/blix-cars-2-robotics-for-kids

[beautifuljourneycollection]

Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Gifts for Kids

When it comes to finding the perfect gifts for kids, the options can feel endless—and a bit overwhelming. From educational toys and tech gadgets to creative crafts and outdoor gear, the best kids’ gifts strike a balance between fun and functional, entertaining and enriching.

Whether you're shopping for a birthday, holiday, or a special milestone, this guide will help you discover the top gifts for kids of all ages in 2025. We've compiled ideas that cater to various interests and budgets, so you can find a present that truly brings joy.

Why Choosing the Right Gift for Kids Matters?

Kids are constantly learning, growing, and exploring the world around them. The right gift can:

Encourage creativity and problem-solving

Support physical or mental development

Foster interests and passions

Provide entertainment and bonding time with family or friends

When choosing gifts for kids, consider their age, personality, and hobbies. Are they into building things? Love reading? Obsessed with science or sports? The best gifts are thoughtful and age-appropriate.

Top Gifts for Kids by Age Group

1. Gifts for Toddlers (Ages 1–3)

For toddlers, the best gifts are safe, stimulating, and help with motor skill development.

Stacking Toys and Building Blocks – Encourage hand-eye coordination and imaginative play.

Ride-On Toys – Great for physical activity and balance.

Interactive Learning Toys – Toys that sing, talk, or light up can help toddlers learn numbers, letters, and shapes.

Soft Books – Durable and colorful books make reading fun from an early age.

2. Gifts for Preschoolers (Ages 4–6)

Preschoolers love to explore, pretend, and learn new things.

Arts and Crafts Kits – Help kids develop fine motor skills and creativity.

Educational Games – Look for options that teach phonics, math, or problem-solving in a fun way.

Play Kitchens or Tool Sets – These promote role-playing and imagination.

Puzzles – Great for critical thinking and patience.

3. Gifts for School-Aged Kids (Ages 7–10)

Kids in this age group begin to develop specific interests and skills.

STEM Toys – Think coding robots, science kits, and engineering sets.

Board Games – Choose games suitable for their age that encourage strategic thinking.

Sports Equipment – A soccer ball, basketball hoop, or skateboard can keep kids active.

Books – Series like Dog Man, Harry Potter, or The Treehouse Books are hits with this age group.

4. Gifts for Tweens (Ages 11–13)

Tweens are starting to develop independence and stronger opinions.

Tech Gadgets – Smartwatches for kids, beginner-friendly tablets, or headphones.

DIY Craft Kits – Jewelry making, painting, or DIY slime kits are very popular.

Subscription Boxes – Monthly boxes for science, art, or reading keep the excitement going.

Outdoor Gear – Bikes, scooters, or even roller skates encourage activity and fun.

Trending Gifts for Kids in 2025

Looking for what's hot this year? Here are some trending gifts for kids in 2025:

Augmented Reality Learning Toys – Merging physical and digital play for interactive learning experiences.

Eco-Friendly Toys – Wooden toys, recycled materials, and sustainable packaging are becoming more popular among parents.

Personalized Gifts – Custom storybooks, name puzzles, or backpacks add a personal touch kids love.

Virtual Reality Headsets for Kids – Safe and age-appropriate VR experiences for gaming and learning.

Tips for Choosing the Perfect Gift

Consider Their Interests – Whether they love dinosaurs, art, space, or animals, pick something that aligns with what excites them.

Think About Longevity – Choose gifts that kids can grow into or use for a long time.

Encourage Learning – Many educational toys are so fun, kids won’t even realize they’re learning.

Ask Parents – When in doubt, ask the parents (especially for younger kids) about preferences, restrictions, or needs.

Budget-Friendly Gift Ideas

Not every great gift needs to cost a fortune. Here are some thoughtful and affordable gifts for kids under $25:

Coloring books and crayons

Card games like Uno or Go Fish

Mini puzzles or travel games

DIY science or art kits

Books or comic collections

Final Thoughts

Finding the right gifts for kids doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you’re looking for something educational, interactive, or just plain fun, the best gifts are those that match the child's personality and stage of development.

Remember, the goal is to bring a smile to their face and spark their imagination. With the ideas above, you're sure to find a gift that does just that.

[robotixinstitute]

Robotics Kits at Robotix Institute

Robotics kits engage students and tech enthusiasts by providing hands-on experience and theoretical knowledge in automation, engineering, and programming. This article explores the benefits of robotics kits, their impact on STEM education, and their importance for students and hobbyists

[nerdythebard]

#58: Echo [Overwatch 2]

Always ready to learn!

This fun idea comes to us from a user by the name "deduqzaru". Today, we build the ultimate adaptoid. Echo, the creation of Doctor Liao - founding member of Overwatch - is a capable Damage hero, programmed with an advanced AI to fulfill variety of roles in combat and outside of it.

Next Time: Whosoever holds this hamm— NO! Not you! We're going back to the original!

Let's list the three main directives of this build:

Jill of All Trades: Echo was created with the goal of being able to fit into many situations, whether in combat or outside of it. In-game, her kit makes her a great scout, engager and damage-dealer.

I am Thou: Echo's Ultimate skill, "Duplicate" allows her to assume the form and copy the abilities of other characters on the battlefield.

Self-Sustainable: As a robot, Echo is unaffected by many statuses and effects that would affect humans: hunger, sleep, diseases, etc.

---

There were two options to start with Echo; one very obvious, the other - not so much... so I went with the obvious one and made her a Warforged. We get a +2 Constitution and +1 to one ability of our choice (Dexterity), 30 feet walking speed, and also immunity to being aged by magic. With Constructed Resilience, we gain several benefits to our fortitude:

Resistance to poison damage and an advantage on saving throws against being poisoned

We don't need to eat, drink or sleep

We are immune to diseases

We don't need to sleep, and magic cannot put us to sleep

Stemming from that last one, thanks to Sentry's Rest we can spend our long rest (shortened to a minimum of six hours) in a sort of energy-saving mode by remaining in a motionless (but still aware) state rather than unconscious sleep.

Another set of benefits we're granted by our Integrated Protection. We gain a +1 to our AC and can integrate any armour we're proficient in into our own body (and it cannot be removed against our will). Finally, Specialised Design gives us one skill proficiency (Performance) and one tool proficiency (perhaps Tinker's Tools could help us heal/repair).

Because of her learning matrix, Echo holds a huge amount of information. We will make her a Sage, giving us proficiencies in Arcana and History, three languages of our choice, and the Researcher feature - whenever we must recall a piece of lore, we know exactly where to look for the relevant information (library, archive, people of interest, etc.)

ABILITY SCORES

We'll start with Dexterity to move around the battlefield and position ourselves to different roles. Constitution will be next, our body is made of quality materials. After that, we're taking Intelligence, as recording information is what we're all about.

Charisma will be next; we're an adaptoid who can also impersonate others, we need to be convincing. Wisdom is on the lower end, we're still learning after all. Finally, we're dumping Strength.

CLASS

I've had a few ideas here, depending on which race I was going to pick for Echo. In the end, I've decided on something interesting and went Rogue start-to-finish. Rogues get the d8 as their Hit Dice, [8 + our Constitution modifier] initial Hit Points, proficiencies with light armour, simple weapons, hand crossbows, longswords, rapiers, shortswords, and thieves' tools. Let's give Echo a studded leather set and a hand crossbow (and maybe darts) to integrate into her body, the latter to represent her primary tri-shot attack. Our saving throws are Dexterity and Intelligence, and we get to pick four skills from the class list (Acrobatics, Deception, Insight, and Perception).

Level 1: We begin this build by gaining Expertise in two skills we're already proficient in, or one skill and thieves' tools. We can double our proficiency bonus for any checks we make using those skills. Let's apply that to Deception and Insight. We can also apply Sneak Attack to strikes that we make with advantage; once per turn, if we attack with an advantage (or our target is within 5 feet of another creature hostile to it), we can add extra 1d6 damage (the value changes as we level-up).

We also learn Thieves' Cant (can't what?), a series of special code phrases and symbols that is recognisable only to us and those who operate in the same circles as us (so, like... Python, C++, HTML, pick your poison) to decode or encode messages.

Level 2: We can now use Cunning Action to take the Dash, Disengage, or Hide actions as bonus actions.

Level 3: Our Sneak Attack bonus is now 2d6. We also pick our subclass, the Roguish Archetype. Since Echo needs several abilities that are similar to magic, despite my dislike of MagiTech, we will make her an Arcane Trickster. We gain Spellcasting, with Intelligence as our casting ability. We learn cantrips and a fixed number of regular spells. We gain the Mage Hand cantrips and two others of our choice (Light and Shocking Grasp) and three 1st-level spells: Disguise Self, Feather Fall, and Magic Missile. With those three, we have covered Echo's ultimate (to a degree), her passive ability to glide, and her primary tri-shot.

Additionally, with Mage Hand Legerdemain, we can make our Mage Hand invisible and use it to perform additional tasks (pickpocketing, using thieves' tools with it, etc.).

Level 4: Time for the first Ability Score Improvement, and we will use it to bump up our Dexterity by two points. We can also grab the Identify spell to access our vast database.

Level 5: Our Sneak Attack bonus is now 3d6. We can now activate our extra jet boosters and make an Uncanny Dodge; doing so, we can use our reaction to halve the damage of an attack hitting us (if we can see it).

Level 6: We get an upgrade to our Expertise, by selecting two more skills that will benefit from the effect: let's choose History and Perception.

Level 7: Our Sneak Attack bonus is now 4d6. We also unlock 2nd-level spells, so let's grab Aganazzar's Scorcher to replicate Echo's Focusing Beam ability.

Here, we also gain a very useful maneouvre ability: Evasion. When we are forced to make a Dexterity saving throw against an effect that would result in us taking half damage on a success (such as the Fireball spell), we instead take no damage. On a failure, we take half damage instead of full damage.

Level 8: Another ASI. We can cap our Dexterity to 20 for even better AC and Initiative bonus. To replicate Echo's Sticky Bombs ability, let's use the spell Snilloc's Snowball Swarm.

Level 9: Our Sneak Attack bonus is now 5d6. We gain a new subclass feature: Magic Ambush. If, while casting a spell, we are hidden from our target, the creature has a disadvantage if the spell requires them to make a saving throw.

Level 10: Halfway through the build and we get a new cantrip (Light) and another spell. Let's get Detect Thoughts to improve our impersonations. We also get another ASI; let's put two points into Constitution here.

Level 11: Our Sneak Attack bonus is now 6d6. We now gain a Reliable Talent, which makes our proficient skills even more refined; whenever we make a skill check using a skill we're proficient in, we treat every roll of 9 and below as 10. We also get another spell; let's pick See Invisibility to upgrade our visual sensors.

Level 12: For this level's ASI, instead of increasing any traits, we're gonna pick a feat that furthers Echo's specialisation: with the Actor feat we get a +1 to our Charisma, an advantage on Deception and Performance checks used to impersonate another person, as well as the ability to mimic the speech and sound of another person or creature (if we hear them speaking for at least 1 minute).

Level 13: Our Sneak Attack bonus is now 7d6. We also unlock another class feature; Versatile Trickster lets use use our invisible Mage Hand to distract a target within 5 feet of it as a bonus action. Doing so, gives us an advantage on attacks against that target until the end of the turn.

Additionally, we unlock 3rd-level spells and we can finally become the aerial support with Fly.

Level 14: At this level, we install some new update to our sensors and gain Blindsense. If we're able to hear, we are aware of the location of any hidden or invisible creature within 10 feet of us.

For our next spell, we're going to grab Melf's Minute Meteors for some cover fire/carpet bombing.

Level 15: Our Sneak Attack bonus is now 8d6 and our software gets some patches, because thanks to Slippery Mind we gain proficiency in Wisdom saving throws (and oh, we desperately need it).

Level 16: For another ASI, we can round up Charisma and Intelligence with one point each. We can also grab another spell, so let's disappear from the enemy's radar with Nondetection.

Level 17: Our Sneak Attack bonus is now 9d6.

Time for our final subclass feature; Spell Thief allows us to hack the system and steal the knowledge of how to cast the spell from another once per long rest. Immediately after being targetted by a spell (or being in the area of one), we can use our reaction to force the caster to make a saving throw. On a failed save, the spell is cancelled and we steal the knowledge behind it. For the next 8 hours, we can cast the spell using our spell slots and the original caster cannot access that spell.

Level 18: We become the most Elusive target there is. If we aren't incapacitated, attacks against us cannot be made with an advantage.

Level 19: Our Sneak Attack bonus is now 10d6. With the final ASI of the build, we will cap our Constitution to a 20. We also unlock 4th-level spells for the endgame; let's take Locate Creature to be an even better pursuer.

Level 20: Our capstone is Rogue 20, which gives us Stroke of Luck. Once per short or long rest, we can turn a failed attack or ability check into a success. For the final spell of the build, let's grab Ice Storm and re-flavour it into carpet bombing.

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And that is Echo, carrying the spirit of one of the founders of Overwatch. Let's see what we came up with:

First of all, we have all the boxes of being the cutting edge automaton checked; we do not require food and water or sleep, we are immune to diseases, and can still keep watch even during stasis. We have good detection skills thanks to spells, mobility, and good Insight. Finally, we have also covered Echo's mimicking ability thanks to Disguise Self and proficiency in Deception and Performance.

Our AC is 18, wew have a +5 to our Initiative, and the average of 176 Hit Points.

Although we have hit two 20s in this build (Dexterity and Constitution), we don't have much in terms of other abilities. Our Strength modifier is still a negative, and our Wisdom is pretty low; even with proficiency in saving throws, it may be challenging to resist some crowd control effects. Sometimes, hackers might get the better of us.

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Wow, it's been some time since I've typed the ending words. I enjoyed this one, the Overwatch characters have a really good potential to use in your D&D game; let me know if I should do more of those. It's good to do this again, and I saw that you guys wanted more gods, so I shall deliver.

I'll see you in the next one, darlings! - Nerdy out!

[disease-danger-darkness-silence]

My niece is, understandably, angry at me because I haven't been in touch with her.

But I'm not welcome at that house, and haven't been since August. I also haven't talked to my sister since August. I haven't texted my mom since Halloween. She hasn't replied to me since we'll before that. My brother? He messaged me today, to be kind of an ass. He's the reason I'm not speaking to my family, actually - I'm not mad at anyone else but him.

I'm not mad at Madison, and I accept her anger. But man, it bums a bitch out. I went and dropped off her Christmas presents - one from each of us - and I just left them on the porch.

We always get her STEM stuff, because she loves Girls Who Code and shit like that. Raven found a robotics kit at Costco back in October and bought it for her without even thinking twice, because they loved the idea of her playing with robots. I've been at work since shortly after that on her present.

At first I was gonna put together a beginning soldering kit for her but I figured she needed a better education in the basics so I made her a paper circuit kit - a binder of info and a bunch of circuit patterns and cardstock to print out the things, and components. LED lights, switches, copper conductive tape, etc. All of the accessories she'd need.

I hope she uses it and likes it, instead of tossing it.