subject: What Is Paintball? [print this page] Paintball has become a popular game in the past several years. Although it is primarily targeted for teens and young adults, there are people of all ages who enjoy paintballing. Paintball guns are essentially guns that shoot out pellets of paint that splatter upon contact. Getting hit by a paintball can be slightly painful, but many think this adds to the fun of the game.
The Basics
The rules for paintball vary depending on who is playing. The game is most often played in teams, with the primary goal being to eliminate the other team. This is done by shooting each individual with a paintball gun while trying to avoid being hit by someone else.
Paintball can be played indoors or outdoors. Sometimes the terrain is natural and sometimes it is man-made. Paintball can be played in an enclosed area, although it is often played out in the woods. The woods gives a more realistic atmosphere and ground cover. Landing after taking a dive to avoid being hit is not as painful on the ground as it is on thinly carpeted concrete. There are indoor and outdoor paintball venues. Many of these have obstacles and paintball bunkers, adding to the excitement of the game.
Equipment
There are only a few pieces of equipment needed to play paintball. A paintball gun, also called a paintball marker, is the primary piece of equipment. Paintball guns come with attached loaders and a compressed gas bottle used as a propellant. Paintballs are the ammunition. They are small beads made primarily from polyethylene glycol and dye. When playing paintball it is important to wear a mask protecting the face. Paintball venues require these, but individuals can purchase them as well if they intend to play paintball at home.
League Play
Paintball is primarily played for enjoyment or relaxation from everyday life; however, there are professional leagues that those who take paintball seriously can join. Paintball is played different in leagues. The surfaces are flat and there is usually a smaller area to play in. This allows judges and spectators to see what is going on. The games are much shorter and more intense because there are not as many places to hide.
Safety
Some may think of paintball as a dangerous sport, but it is actually one of the safest. This is mostly due to the fact that it is not a contact sport. The worst injuries in paintball are due to not using proper safety equipment. It is crucial to wear a safety mask while playing paintball to avoid injuries to the eyes. Most paintball venues have age restrictions and do not allow young children to play.
Most people who play paintball do it for fun. Many video-gamers also enjoy playing with paintball guns as a way to act out their games in real life. For most, it is simply an escape from the everyday humdrum and a way to have fun.
