Everyone has a first game of paintball, and almost everyone makes the same handful of mistakes in it. That is part of the fun. Still, knowing what to watch out for means you will spend less time sitting out after an early hit and more time actually playing.
Here are the mistakes marshals and experienced players see most often, and what to do instead.
Mistakes Before the Game Starts
Not listening to the safety briefing. It can be tempting to chat at the back while the marshal talks, but the briefing tells you the field boundaries, how to signal that you are hit, where the safe zone is and the rules for each game. Missing it leads to confusion later.
Lifting the mask. This is the one rule that is never negotiable. Your mask stays on at all times on the field, even if it fogs, even if the game seems to be over. If you have a problem, raise your hand, call for a marshal and walk to the safe zone.
Wearing the wrong clothes. Light shorts, flat shoes and bright colours make for a harder day. Long sleeves, sturdy footwear and dark layers help a lot.
Not checking your marker. Ask the marshal to show you how to load, how the safety works and what to do if it jams. Thirty seconds of explanation saves a lot of frustration.
Mistakes on the Field
Standing in the open. New players often stand upright to get a better look. On a paintball field, that makes you the easiest target in the game. Stay low, keep moving between pieces of cover and only expose as little of yourself as you need to.
Hiding too much. The opposite problem is also common. Some beginners find a good bunker and stay there for the entire game. You will survive longer, but you will not help your team. Move with purpose when your teammates are covering you.
Shooting at everything, all the time. Firing constantly empties your hopper fast and gives away your position. Pick your moments, aim and take a few controlled shots.
Peeking from the same spot. If you look out from the same side of a tree or bunker every time, the opposing player will simply wait for you there. Switch sides, change height and vary your timing.
Playing alone. Paintball is a team game. Talk to your team, call out where opponents are and agree on simple plans before each game, such as who pushes forward and who covers.
Mistakes With Fair Play
Not calling your hits. When you are hit and the paint breaks, raise your hand or marker, call “hit” clearly and walk off the field by the safe route. Honest play keeps the game fun for everyone. If you are not sure whether a ball broke, ask a marshal to check.
Shooting too close. Many fields have a minimum distance or a surrender rule for close encounters. Respect it, especially with new or younger players.
Overshooting. Keep firing at someone who is already out and walking off, and you will quickly lose friends. Once a player calls hit, stop.
Mistakes After the Game
Not drinking enough water. Even on a cool day you will sweat a lot. Drink between every game.
Forgetting a change of clothes. Muddy, paint covered clothes in the car are not a pleasant way to end a great day.
Giving up after one game. Most people improve quickly once they understand how the field plays. If your first game felt chaotic, the second one usually feels much better.
Ready for Your Next Game
The best way to improve is simply to play more. Once you have the basics, read our comparison of recreational vs competitive paintball to see where you might want to go next, and check out our guide to places to play in Dublin. Above all, follow the marshals, play fair and enjoy it.