For those of you wondering what it might be like to walk around like Doctor Octopus, this British-built hexapod could be exactly what you're looking for.
Called the Mantis Walking Machine, it was designed by Matt Denton and his team at Micromagic Systems. It took over four years to develop, but it's the largest all-terrain operational hexapod robot in the world.
Mantis runs off a 2.2-litre, 50 horsepower turbo diesel engine, and it stands 2.8 meters (9 feet) tall. It can be piloted directly or controlled via wifi. Functionally, it can manipulate objects (like pushing a trailer) or fold itself into a truck bed.
As of now, Mantis walks around at the achingly slow pace of 1 km/hr. Its navigational software has to rely solely on the information given to it by its legs as they touch the ground. Future versions will likely utilize visual systems, allowing Mantis to evaluate the topography of its environment in advance.
And then you'll be sorry. YOU'LL ALL BE SORRY!!
Anyway, Mantis is available for private hire, custom commissions, events, and sponsorships. Just imagine this thing romping around at some kid's 10th birthday party.
H/t Singularity Hub.