by Rena Sandou

Created on: July 30, 2009

Paintball can be thrilling. It is not just about shooting. A combination of skills is needed to master this game. Good strategy, great accuracy, teamwork and spirit are just some of them. But in order for the game to flow smoothly, good knowledge of the basic rules is required from all players.

Preparation

- First of all, the presence of a referee is essential. He is responsible for crucial decisions such as the initial and last call or about matters that arouse regarding a hit's validity. No one can argue the referee's call. His decisions are final and indisputable.

- Players must be equally divided in teams. Each team must choose its base. Take a good walk around the playfield before choosing the right spot for your base.

- Mark a dead zone far away from the playfield. A dead zone is necessary for the players that are shot. There, they can put off their equipment without being afraid of getting hit by players that still go on. Make this zone known to everyone so as to avoid shooting in its boundaries.

- A time limit is also important. No matter what kind of paintball game you play, a time limit can make the game immediate and interesting. Professionals usually prefer a time period between 30 and 60 minutes.

- Setting up the boundaries for your game is also important. Everyone must be notified for their location. During the game, if any of the players is traced outside the official boundaries, will be disqualified and has to live the game. In addition, any shots played from away from the boundaries do not count as legal shots.

Hits

- If you are shot, then you are out of the game. It does not matter if you are hit by a team mate or an opponent; you are considered 'dead'. But, for a hit to be legal, the marking pellet must break on your body or equipment. When that happens, you have to raise your gun over your head, call that is out and then leave the field from the quickest and safest route.

- Be careful! If a marking pallet does not break on you, then the hit is not valid and you continue. In case you are not sure if the pallet is broken, you can call for a 'paint check'. The referee will then come and check on you. If the pallet has broken, you are out of the game. If not, everybody returns in position and the referee starts the game again.

- In addition, you also continue playing if you are marked by a splatter. It does not count as a legal hit if you are marked by rubbles of a marking pallet that has hit a rock, tree or anything similar. There

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>