Paintballing as a beginner can be a fascinating and adventurous experience. However, it can also be intimidating and scary as there is that fear of getting shot by a paintball. Fortunately, there are tips to help you overcome the beginner stage. With these tips, you will be sure to play better than other beginners and increase your chances of taking out your opponents before getting shot.
1. Follow the rules
It is essential to follow the rules to avoid getting kicked out of the paintball arena. These rules may not necessarily make you a better player, but they will keep you in the game and increase your chances of winning. The rules are straightforward and are put in place to ensure your safety. Never take off your mask. There may be additional rules depending on each location, but these rules are similar irrespective of where you go.
Also, always listen to the referee at all times. The referees are there to keep everyone safe and ensure that no one gets hurt while playing.
2. Plan with your team
Paintball is not an individual activity, and as such, it is essential to plan with your team. You and your teammates should map out an attack and defense strategy. While this may not go according to plan, you have a better chance at success, and it is better than rushing in blazing your guns. This act will get you shot quickly. Decide on what positions everyone on the team will take and ensure that you stick to the plan. As a beginner, you should rely on your teammates to help you out.
Do not be too hard on yourself if you fail to understand your team’s strategy at first. It gets better with constant practice.
3. Communicate with your teammates
One common mistake that beginners make is failing to communicate with their team. Communication is vital to the team’s success. Discuss your approach in each game zone and run your moves with them, especially when on the offensive.
Communication is also needed when your position has been compromised. You can assist your team by calling out enemy positions, the number of opponents eliminated, and any other minor detail that can help advance the team. Remember, there is no ‘I’ in teamwork.
4. Do not hide unnecessarily
Avoid hiding for long periods. Spending your time hiding kills your game and the fun of playing. Do not let the fear of getting shot hinder you from taking risks and catching your opponents unawares.
Hiding constantly gives your opponent the upper hand and reduces your chances of making any eliminations. It also gives your opponents a larger area of the field to attack. Hiding does not make you immune to eliminations. So, go out and face your fears.
5. Do not leave yourself overly exposed
While you should avoid hiding unnecessary, you should also not overexpose yourself. Anticipating your opponent’s moves and positioning yourself is always helpful. Avoid giving your opponent a great angle to aim at you. Stay ahead of the game by picturing your opponent’s view of you.
For instance, it is common for players to poke their heads to get a view of the position of their opponents. This act makes you an easy target for your opponents. Instead of doing this, position yourself at an angle where you can better view things without being noticed.
With these tips, you are ready for your first paintball game. We hope you have a fun and adrenaline-packed experience while at it.