Paintball is a game of strategy and skill where the objective is to shoot members of the opposing team before time runs out. Most games have a set time limit, often indicated by some kind of projected or visible clock and/or a buzzer. The game also involves controlling territory, using cover to avoid detection and limiting the number of options the opponents have for approaching you with shots.
In contrast to older sports such as tennis or soccer, where one ball is used, a paintball game has dozens, sometimes hundreds of “balls” in play at any given time. A paintball is actually a small container of colored liquid encased in a gelatin capsule. The “paint” is non-toxic, biodegradable and water soluble (so it will wash off your skin or clothing).
A key piece of equipment in any paintball game is the marker, which resembles an overgrown bath oil bead. Markers are typically semi-automatic, semi-automatic or fully automatic devices that fire a paintball from a barrel when the trigger is pulled.
Most players wear a face mask, which protects the eyes and mouth from paintball impact. In some situations, players may wear a helmet and/or chest protector for added protection. Players typically use camouflaged clothing, which helps them blend in with their surroundings on the playing field.
When playing a paintball game, it is important to conserve your ammunition. It is not uncommon for a player to run out of ammo while in the middle of a match, so it is crucial to only shoot when you have a clear shot and are close enough to hit your opponent. Also, be sure to keep your gun capped. This will help prevent it from jamming and losing your hard-earned ammo.