Paintball is a team game played with markers that use compressed air to fire small gelatin capsules of washable paint. If a ball hits you and breaks, leaving a mark, you're usually out. Fields come in two main styles. Woodsball is played outdoors among trees, forts and natural cover, sometimes as story-driven scenario games. Speedball is played on a smaller, flat field dotted with inflatable bunkers, and the rounds are short and fast. Common formats include elimination and capture the flag.

Most first-timers start with a rental package at a commercial field, which typically includes a marker, a mask, air and a starting supply of paint. Referees run the games and enforce the safety rules. Hits sting and can leave welts or bruises, especially at close range. Some fields offer low-impact games with smaller paintballs that hurt less, a good option for beginners and younger players.

The Date Activity

For an active, competitive couple, paintball makes a memorable date. Playing on the same team means covering each other and planning moves together, while playing on opposite sides settles the question of who's tougher. Talk about it first, though. Someone who hates the idea of getting hit won't enjoy it, and a surprise paintball date is a bad surprise. Afterward, compare welts over a big meal.

If the sting is a dealbreaker, laser tag offers the same strategy and teamwork with no pain at all. For a full day of adrenaline, pair paintball with a few laps on the go-karts.

On Your Own / With Friends

Paintball is built for groups: bachelor and bachelorette parties, birthdays, team-building and reunions. Larger groups can often book a private game, so you won't be mixed in with strangers. If you go alone, look for a field's walk-on play days, when individual players are sorted into teams and can always find a game.

Good to Know

Keep your mask on at all times in the play area, even if it fogs up, and take it off only in the designated safe zone. Use field-approved masks, put the barrel cover on whenever you leave the field and follow the referees' calls. Fields set minimum ages and require a signed waiver, with a parent or guardian signing for minors. Wear long sleeves, layers, sturdy shoes or boots and gloves, in clothes you don't mind getting stained. Many fields require you to buy paint on site, so check before bringing your own. Bring water, and book ahead for groups.