Okay, you have the paint marker, the gear, the protective clothing and the money for a game. But what kind of game of paintball do you want to play? Yes, there are many different kinds of paintball fields, both inside and outside. Most players prefer to play outdoors, with natural landscaping serving as their woods, jungles and forest scenario playing fields.



The type of game that is being played determines some of the more basic variations of the fields. In Capture the Flag, for instance, the field can be open or wooded, but the main object is for one team member to capture the flag of the opposing team. The flag is usually located near the 'home base' of the opposing team or in the middle of playing fields. Once the flag is captured, it must be hung from the flag station of the opposing team.

In Elimination, the fields are typically filled with inflatable barriers and obstacles. This version requires either an individual or an entire team to eliminate all opponents.

Paintball fields can also differ in the version called Woodsball. This version of the game requires varied terrain and cover. Players use natural terrain and fallen logs and trees as cover while they practice stealth and strategy in an effort to find and eliminate all opposing players in the game.

The name obviously implies that this exciting version of paintball be experienced in heavy woods with adequate cover for players. This version of the game requires close-quarter play and distances, as visibility is limited and cover provides ample hiding opportunities for opponents.

Woodsball paintball fields are generally open year round, though cold weather will prevent some players from using their CO2 tanks due to freezing and ineffective power.

Some fields have been known to be located on National Forest land, but the forest service requests that players avoid campgrounds, historic ruins and trails accessed by visitors. And of course, please notify the local ranger to verify rules regarding play on National Forest land.

For versions of the game that incorporate scenario playing, a wide variety of fields are used. Some are flat and rolling, some are in the desert, some located in hilly, wooded terrain. These paintball games can last days. A recent paintball scenario game in Pennsylvania was comprised of over four thousand players!

Speedball is another version of paintball that is generally played on fields cleared of trees or any objects that can be used for cover. About half the size of a football field, fields used in Speedball are scattered with artificial obstacles on a level ground.

Paintball fields are as varied as the types of paintball games being created every year. Professionally owned fields are well maintained and players follow posted rules for play.

Still, many individuals create their own fields for play, and these can be found anywhere away from roads, streets and houses. Paintball fields offer kids and adults an exciting day of fresh air and good fun. Check to see if there are any around you and give the game a try!