Anybody can play paintball, regardless of race, sex, age and social status. It is a game for people who have taste for competition and adventure.

The game combines two of the most popular childhood past times: tag and hide-and-seek, the objective being to capture the flag of the enemy while protecting one's own.

There are several reasons for the popularity of paintball:

1. It is the team sport that enables one to remove an opponent from the game without being penalized for it. In fact, removing one's opponent is very much part of the game. It is the survival of the smartest and the quickest.

2. There is a strong sense of danger, not necessarily a physical one. The threat of being removed from the game makes it more exciting for the participants. But since it is only a game, the fear is not enough to make one mentally-incapacitated. With the right safety gear, no one is really in any real danger. It is all in the mind.

3. All players are equal. Experience is the only basis of one's edge over the other player. Factors such as race, gender and age do not put one ahead of the other.

4. There is a total absence of physical contact. There is no need for a player to manhandle his opponent so that he can be eliminated from the game. One only needs to shoot the opponent, which can be done from a relatively safe distance. Very few injuries and no deaths have resulted from playing paintball.

5. There is no need to be an athlete. Playing paintball does not require extreme physical strength. In fact, the game can be played with very few physical movements.

6.No one really needs to be experienced to enjoy the game. Though it matters, a lot of old-time players find themselves surprisingly eliminated by first-time participants. It is anybody's game.

7. It is gadget-crazy. Everybody likes gadgets. Paintball requires a lot of them.

Paintball is a very stimulating and exciting sport. Playing the game gives one the chance to renew the inner child in people. It enables one to maximize his sense of adventure, without risking life and limb for that sought-after rush.

* This article was written by Canada Paintball. For all your paintball needs visit Canada Paintball Online which is Canada's fastest growing online paintball superstore!

Millions of people around the world join these tournaments, and millions more enjoy watching the game.

What sets this game apart from the rest is that there are no limitations on the number of players that want to participate. If the playing field allows, you can have up to one thousand players in the game.

As with any other game, paintball has its own rules and regulations that are governed by referees. They enforce the rules and impose penalties for those who break them.

General Paintball Tournaments Rules

Participants take this game very seriously. So seriously in fact, that the American Paintball League was created.

This league is who creates the rules for paintball and makes sure that they are implemented. One such rule is that the player is only allowed one paintball gun on the field and all player have to have their gun inspected before playing begins.

Certain tournaments do not allow automatic paint guns in the game. An automatic paintball gun is defined as one that does not break when the trigger is pulled.

The American Paintball League also determines what the penalties will be for each infraction of the rules.

These penalties range from subtraction of points to disqualifying a player for serious infractions. Many people feel that they can do whatever they want on the field and not get caught, this is simply not true, if you break the rules, there is always someone watching to report it.

Another rule that is enforced in a tournament is the proper gear. These games can be very intense and many people tend to go overboard when they are playing.

The rules state that a player must wear the proper dress, and goggles to protect their eyes. If the proper outfit is not worn, the player will not be allowed to participate. Other infractions of the rules are bringing slingshots and blowguns two-way radios and walkie talkies into the game.

Everyday more and more people join the ranks and decide to participate in the games. The United States hosts approximately ten million paintball enthusiasts and the numbers are growing everyday.

The basic rule of paintball games is to eliminate your opponent and remain alive to be the last man standing. This rule has a few variations; one being that you must capture the opposing teams flag.

This type of game is appropriately titles "war games" or even "sniper games." Either way, you are required to have highly specialized equipment. This type of game is guaranteed to be a fun and challenging experience.

One of the best features of this game is that it can be played anywhere. Indoors or outdoors, it is guaranteed to be the experience of a lifetime. Woodsball Scenario and Speedball/tourneyball are the most common types to be played.

The history of paintball games is really quite fascinating. The game itself has been played since nineteen eight one, and the original game only have twelve players. Two of the original players, Hayes Noel and Bob Gurnsey are responsible for the games that are played today.

When paintball was first played, there were no paintball stores where you could purchase equipment, and paintball guns were used for a totally different purpose.

Named the Nelspot 007 agricultural gun, this paintball gun was used to mark not only trees; it was also used by farmers to mark livestock such as cows. The Nelson Paint company had been making the paintball guns since the nineteen fifties.

In the present day, paintball equipment can be purchased everywhere. It is a growing market and is getting bigger everyday. Companies such as Kingman Group and PMI paintball gear are two of the largest companies to distribute paintball gear for every level and position of the game. they also produce quality safety equipment that is guaranteed to keep you accident and injury free.

If you have aspirations of becoming the worlds most formidable paintball player, it will be necessary to equip yourself with the best equipment possible. However the basic safety gear will also be necessary. Throat and chest protectors, as well as knee and elbow pads are an essential part of this gear.

All of this equipment can be found in paintball stores across the country and across the world. If you are serious about your paintball game experience, this equipment will assist you in your goal.

The main basic aim of paintball is to eliminate opposing players from the game by marking them with a paintball fired from a paintball gun or marker.

The self tailored rules range from one extreme to another and objectives such as claiming the opposing team's flag or eliminating their "General" are added incentives. It's a simple sport enjoyed by all who play whatever their age or experience.

Serious paintball players use specific paintball terminology some examples of which are listed below:

Co2 Bottle - a container which holds the CO2 propellants which "fuel" paintball guns.

Markers - An abbreviation used for paintball markers or guns, to refer to the compressed air powered guns used in paintball exercises.

Hopper – hoppers are containers made of plastic and mounted on top of one's paintball gun, to hold usually around 140 to 200 rounds of the paintball ammunition.

Elbow – elbows, in paintball lingo, as small plastic tubes connecting the hopper to the gun.

Thermal Lenses – are two lenses, with an air pocket in between them. The effect of thermal lenses prevents fogging thus helping the vision of the player.

Barrel Plug – barrel plugs have proven to be necessary safety devices where paintball is concerned, preventing an incident should one’s paintball gun be accidentally fired whilst not in play.

Squeegee – a paintball squeegee is for use when it is necessary to clean the broken paint in the barrel of one’s paintball marker during play.

Bottle Attachment – this item permits a CO2 bottle to be horizontally attached, allowing it to be a grip for one’s free hand when a steady gun is needed.

Bottomline – this term refers to an item used for attaching a CO2 bottle to the bottom of a paintball gun’s grip, allowing for a more balanced aim.

Moving from playing in the forest to transporting the sport of paintball to stadiums, the game is made accessible to all interested parties who wish to play. Additionally, onlookers in the stands are able to enjoy the game play as well.

Yet, we are all aware that paintball isn't just an activity that utilizes running around and hiding from opponents. Therefore, how can the "adventure part" of the game unfold in a stadium?

Luckily, companies in the paintball industry have quickly developed paintball field packages that allow thousands of paintball players to tackle their most simple dreams of playing the game.

A wide-range of paintball field packages is available on the market. Selecting the paintball field packages of your choice all depends on the size of the playing field in relation to the number of players it can accept.

Decisions are also made by owners of the play-site and those who head the grounds as to what kind of materials will create the most realistic paintball gaming experience that matches the play that takes place in the woods.

Paintball field packages have greatly assisted the support of a sport that is increasing in interest across the world, as many different kinds of sites now create game play without any difficulties.

Whether you are playing paintball in stadiums or in the comfort of your own backyard (considering there is enough space to enjoy the game), there is a wide-range of benefits to consider. For starters, getting attention to injuries is much quicker than if you were playing paintball in a forest.

Many venues found all over the United States have sided with transforming their fields for paintball events in an attempt to deliver the sport closer to enthusiasts.

Since the start of the sport in 1985, paintball has collected quite the following and is now known as a popular outdoor sporting game that rivals American football, rugby, or soccer. Without paintball field packages, this may have never taken place.

Different Kind of Paintball Field Packages

Many different kinds of paintball events rely on various types of field accessories in relation to their rules of the game, number of participants, and length of game.

From bunker packages, standard field packages, to tournament field packages, it is suggested to seek out the proper equipment used on the field and wait for the energy to rise.

The in style material associated with paintball field packages are usually inflatable thick rubbers since they are the least difficult to clean, assist in protecting participants (which lowers the incidence of accidents and injury), and serve as temporary structures that are easily disposable.

It doesn't matter if you are a team looking for a site to enjoy paintball or a site owner desiring to entice paintball players, consider paintball field packages to fulfill all of your paintball dreams.

Instead, players are marked out using gelatin based balls of paint, propelled by compressed air or carbon dioxide guns. While getting hit by a paintball can sting, it won't hurt you seriously.

Paintball can be played either indoors or out, and comes in a number of different varieties. The simplest form of the game just involves trying to eliminate all members of the opposing team.

However, games with a bit more strategy have also been developed, including versions of capture the flag, and games where the goal is to eliminate a certain opposing player, like a general.

Among the most popular variations are: "Woodsball", "Scenario", and "Speedball."  The last is also called Tourneyball, depending on where it's being played. The rules of paintball can be adjusted by the players to their particular tastes. This means that you'll run into different ways of playing in different locations.

Over ten million people in the United States play paintball. This game, which started in the early 1980s, has developed something of a cult following over the years.

To play paintball, you need access to a good location, and a little bit of equipment. This includes a paintball gun, or "marker", goggles or a mask to protect your face, and ammunition in the form of paintballs.

Paintball is a great game for both casual players and really dedicated people. Some games are as short as five minutes. Others can take up much of a day, depending on the rules and the number of players.

Paintball started in 1981, when Hayes Noel and Bob Gurnsy, inspired by stories about hunting buffalo, repurposed a type of agricultural paint marker for the game.

Originally designed to help ranchers mark cattle from a distance, and also used by forestry professionals to mark trees, these guns were made by the Nelson Paint Company, and had been manufactured since the 1950s.

The sport quickly caught on, and soon dedicated paintball guns were being made. Now it's a great sport, playable by almost anyone. If you're curious, consider trying out paintball today.

Many locations will allow you to rent or borrow equipment, so you won't have to buy it right away. Paintball can be a lot of fun for anyone.

Playing paintball in the woods is called "woodsball" and paintball players have been playing this war like game in the woods since its earliest days. Woodsball is paintball in its purest form.

The woods seclude the field, which is in the center of the wooded area, and allow the players places to advance in a much more sneaky manner than an open field might offer. Stealthy players enjoy playing in wooded areas as surprising and overtaking their opponents is made possible naturally.

Concept Fields

With many objects set up to allow players to remain hidden from their opponents a concept field is a perfect manmade creation for paintball games. A concept field is usually outdoors and almost always has a theme. Urban concept fields are often seen filled with cars, buildings, and other elements that are found in the city.

Some concept fiend creators go all out and put together themes that may seem a bit over the top to people who aren't familiar with the sport. Medieval themes with castles, towers, wagons and even cutouts of people scattered throughout the field pulls the player into the game.

The theme can add to the game and can be varied to the skill levels of the players. These fields can have obstacles either added or removed to enhance the paintball experience.

Speedball Fields

Paintball fanatics agree that the most exciting as well as challenging of fields are speedball fields. Made of equally spaced and sized barriers these fields are for those who want to push their team and themselves to do their best and play hard.

Players can not see past barriers and other players can be just around the corner. Large and small barriers are scattered throughout concealing other players quite well.

Indoor Fields

Offering a much different approach from the outdoor fiends the indoor fields are loud. In fact, the noise level can be a huge obstacle to overcome for some players. Many players choose to use ear plugs to protect themselves from the noise of the paintball guns but most just accept it as part of the game.

The indoor field is usually used in cases where an outdoor field isn't available, often in the city. Different themes and setups are available in the indoor fields just like they are in the outdoor fields.

Team effort is the most important aspect of the game indoors and out. The idea behind paintball remains the same on any field. Different fields offer some choices to the players as well as a bit of variation in play. Each field offers differing challenges. One thing about paintball that doesn't change: the place you choose to play is only limited by your imagination.

Rainy day games are more difficult because of the mud. Slipping, sliding, and difficulty stopping when you run all need to be compensated for. Simple moves, such as crouching, are made difficult. The challenge that rain brings to the game makes playing in the rain a perfect way to test your skills.

Some guidelines to follow for those of you who want to play paintball in the rain include:

Wearing rain gear is smart. Put on a raincoat or slicker before you go to the paintball field. If you don't own waterproof clothing you can use trash bags over your clothes, cut out arm holes and a hole for your head and you can slip the bag on like a t-shirt. Shivering can affect your accuracy as well as restrict movement, not to mention how uncomfortable getting soaked can be.

A waterproof hat or other head covering can be helpful as well. You need to keep from having your goggles fogged up and avoid rain running down your face and breaking your concentration.

Paper towels are your friend. Bring them along to assist you with foggy goggles. Pay attention to game play and keep safety in mind when you wipe off your goggles, so this in a crouching position facing away from the action to protect your face.

You don't want wet feet, wearing boots can assist with this. Cleats can help with this as well as assist with traction. Your hands can get very cold in the rain, wearing gloves will protect them from the rain.

Keep your gear as dry as possible. Bring along a plastic bag for your paintballs. Extra plastic bags can work to cover your gear as well as covering yourself when needed. You can waterproof your weapon by covering it with plastic secured with rubber bands.

Shooting in the rain is not the same as shooting on a dry day. You may want to use a non-ported barrel to keep the rain out if you have one to keep from having your shots twist.

Paintball can be played in many different ways in all sorts of weather conditions. Use your imagination and keep safety in mind while having fun.

In fact, many have made paintball their occupation. Fund shortages often stop average players from moving to the next level. These ten tips will help you become the next paintball pro.

1. Maintain a Proper Diet.

A proper diet along with exercise is needed for your body to stay in shape for paintball. The game requires you to be able to run, jump and crawl while among other skills.

These cannot be mastered if you do not take care of yourself or if you allow your body to be damaged by smoking, drinking, overeating and lack of exercise.

2. Study.

If you take time to study books and magazines as well as online information about the game you can hone your skills. Most of what you learn will be on the field but there is much to be learned from print.

3. Visualize escape routes.

If you visualize escape routes while you are grocery shopping, paying the bills, and waiting in traffic you will hone your instincts.

4. Dress appropriately.

If you wear clothing that is comfortable and allows for movement you will be able to play the game without restriction. Loose fitting camouflaged clothing works best. Clothing that makes crinkling or swishing noises when you move will give away your position to the other team.

5. Come prepared.

You need to keep your equipment and accessories together. Make sure your batteries, towels, pads, etc. are in one place so you don't leave something behind.

6. Attitude matters.

Your attitude during the game will help you with strategies. You are part of a team, playing with your team in mind and remembering your role is vital to the success of your team.

7. Upgrade.

When you can upgrade your equipment do so. Many accessories aren't very expensive to upgrade and doing so will help you be more efficient as well as increasing your confidence.

8. Be flexible.

Changing tactics often will help you to confuse your opponents while doing the same thing each time will allow your opponents to learn your patterns and use them against you.

9. Learn the area.

If you can get to know your field before the game it will help you to plan your strategies. Look around, learn the hiding places as well as open areas and try to visualize strategies your opponents will use.

10. Review.

After you finish a game review any mistakes that you may have made so you don't make them again. The best tips you will ever receive will be from a review of past errors.

People of all ages are certainly getting the bug to get out on the field and indulge in some paintball combat. It is normal that there is an age restriction of a minimum of 12 years in order to play paintball.

However different locations and paintball organizers can hold different age restrictions, so it is always best to enquire to avoid disappointment.

There are many different ways in which paintball games can be played. The different games range from easy to more difficult and from only a few team members to up to one hundred.

Recreational or Capture the Flag

'Capture the flag' is a game that is played by two teams, whereby each team has a flag. The objective of the game is to capture or seize the opponent's flag and deliver it to your team's starting point. By achieving this, your team wins the game. A different way of winning the game is to eliminate the opposing team entirely.

It is necessary for each team to defend their base whilst simultaneously dispatching team players to eliminate the opponents and capture their flag.

Playing these games in a forest is very popular whereby bunkers and structures can be erected throughout the area.

Scenario Paintball

'Scenario paintball' is a game with a theme that is set up behind it. There are an endless number of themes that can be created making the game feel and look very realistic. There are a number of players; in many cases as many as a hundred can be involved in each team.

Each team receives the theme of the game one day before the game begins. It is usual that two teams participate, with the "general" as a team leader.

Each player is given a role and the team should work together in order to carry out and win the mission assigned.

Distributed throughout the field are props which are in accordance with the theme. Questions are also asked in connection with the theme thereby points are awarded if the answers to those questions are correct.

The points are then totaled at the end of the game and the team that has the most number of points wins.

Backyard

'Backyard paintball' is exactly that, it can be played right in your own backyard or a friend's empty property. It can be played at any property, but it is vitally important that permission is received primarily. You gather your friends to form a group and then conceptualize your own game which is typically "capture the flag".

Speedball

'Speedball', also known as "Center Flag", is designed with many large bunkers, usually "inflatables" which are filled with air that are shaped similar to big snakes, soda cans, water tanks etc.

This is where a team can be formed with between three to ten players in a game. There is only one flag involved and it is located at the center of a field.

The two teams begin at each end of the field and attempt to gain possession of the flag at the center and carry it to their bunker. The team that does this successfully wins the game.

Western Paintball

This is whereby the game is played on a western set with a saloon, chuck wagon, gallows etc.

The aim of this game is to rescue a damsel in distress or a fair maiden, which is of course actually a dummy, from the hangman's noose for example, whilst taking out your opponents.

The first team to deliver the dummy to their finishing point wins the game.

Paintball is certainly a game that can challenge the "soldier" in you. The only way that you can experience the thrill and adrenaline rush of this game is to get in the field and give it a shot!