What is Paintball?

Paintball is a challenging and sophisticated combination of the childhood games "tag" and "hide & seek". Groups divide into two teams to play "capture the flag". The object of the game is to capture the opposing team's flag while protecting your own. While trying to capture the flag, you also try to eliminate opposing players by tagging them with a paintball expelled from a special air gun called a "paint gun". Games have a time limit of 20 to 30 minutes allowing you to play several games during your session.

A paintball is a round, thin-skinned gelatin capsule with a colored, non-toxic, water-soluble paint inside. It rinses out of clothing and off skin with soap and water. When a paintball tags a player the thin gelatin skin splits open and the liquid inside leaves a bright "paint" splat. A player who is marked is eliminated from the game.

For safety, paintball players must always wear approved for paintball goggles to protect their eyes during a game and while in other areas where shooting is permitted. Paintball is a very safe sport as long as safety rules are followed. Referees on the field start and stop games, enforce the rules of safe play, and control the sport's safety.

Paintball is physically challenging. As with any sport, if you have doubts about your physical condition and ability to participate please consult your physician. Proper clothing is essential. Long sleeve shirts and pants are a must (no shorts please). Sturdy shoes with ankle support are recommended as are groin protection for men and chest protection for women. Camouflage clothing will help you blend in with the surroundings (Stalker Paintball Games has camouflage available to rent).

Paintball is a sport played by people from all professions and life styles. It is a sport where women and men compete equally and where age is not dominated by youth. Physical size and strength are not as important as intelligence and determination. Like a game of chess, being able to think quickly and decisively is what makes you a star. Paintball also is a character-building sport. Players learn the importance of teamwork and gain self-confidence while developing leadership abilities.

Paintball is an exciting sport and above all, paintball is fun! It's a chance to shake off your day to day responsibilities and rekindle your spirit of adventure. Once the adrenaline starts pumping, you can't help but love the thrill of the game!