Scenario paintball games usually last 24 hours, with people camping out on the paintball field. However, scenario games can be as brief as 4 hours or as long as 36. Normally, each event has two or more large paintball teams (often called “armies”). The object of the game is to earn the most points by completing “missions”, eliminating opponents, etc.
Scenario Paintball Roles
People who register for a scenario game are assigned to a side, as well as to a specific role. Sometimes, people have a say in how they are assigned; sometimes the best assignments are rewards; sometimes everything is done randomly.
The types of roles available in scenario paintball will depend on the game. Some scenario game characters have special abilities, whereas other roles are basically for the fun of it. Special roles include medics, engineers, demolition experts, helicopter pilots, commanders/generals, spies and even double agents. These characters typically have some special ability (“building” bridges, “exploding” bridges, being able to transport a large group of players safely from one spot to another, etc). Some scenario paintball games even allow players to create their own characters.
Because scenario game “armies” tend to be so large, there tend to be all types of players – from wide-eyed newbies to hard-core scenario gamers-- in each game. Regardless what experience level a player has, the one key feature of any successful scenario paintball game is cooperation among teammates.
Scenario Paintball Gear
Scenario paintball games can be great fun, but they are different – and require different things-- than a regular recreational paintball game. Along the typical gear (paintball mask, marker, squeegee, hopper, etc.), scenario players may want to bring:
- A walkie-talkie or two-way radio that will let them keep in touch with the team captain and coordinate assaults. While communications equipment is optional, it can give a team a tremendous advantage over a team without it.
- Costumes and props that will help players get into the game. These items should not interfere with playing paintball. Props should not be heavy or awkward.
- Snacks, drinks, and food. Sure, there will be food vendors by the paintball field, but by bringing food, a player can a) avoid having to wait in huge lines, and b) not have to play with a stomach full of a greasy burger and fries.
- A flashlight or something else that will allow someone to play paintball in the dark (or at the very least, help locate the porta-potty).
- Camping gear. (Do not underestimate how cold it can get at night!)
- A change of clothes or two. The weather might change, plus playing paintball all day has a way of making people extremely grimy.
- GPS system. This is definitely optional, but can be helpful in really large fields.
A scenario game’s registration packet will normally include a list of items that players may bring or that are prohibited on the field. It is always a good idea to check with a field beforehand when unsure about whether a piece of equipment or a prop (like smoke bombs) will be allowed.
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Estela Kennen - Estela is a doctoral student in Public Administration and a freelance writer and editor.
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