Paintball is a team sport where players attempt to shoot their opponents without getting hit themselves. The team that dominates wins. The game can be played on a number of different terrains and in a variety of scenarios. Most games consist of a series of rounds where teams compete for points by completing various objectives such as protecting the president (one player is chosen as the “president”, his team must protect him from enemy attack, the opposing team must eliminate the president) or capture the flag.
During play, players wear an active-wear uniform such as a camouflage shirt and tactical pants. They also use protective goggles and a mask. A player’s gun is called a marker, and it is equipped with a barrel and loading system that holds six to 10 BBs. The marker is powered by a high-pressure gas tank and is typically stored on the player’s back or in a vest, with a remote line (high-pressure hose) connecting it to the gun.
The earliest documented organized paintball game took place in 1981. Specialized playing fields and stores for the equipment sprung up across the country. Teams of up to 15 players participate in officially sanctioned games.
In addition to standard competition, some people play for fun and recreation, or for the challenge of mastering a new skill. Others use it as a form of physical therapy to overcome stress, anxiety or depression. Many corporate groups arrange therapeutic paintball sessions to improve employee morale and team building. Generally, the main participants are adolescent males.