Scenario Paintball
Scenario paintball is a paintball game which adds a specific theme or story. Usually the theme is a re-creation of a historic battle, or something from a movie or just about anything in which the paintball players are pretending to be something other than paintball players. Other popular scenario paintball themes include cops and robbers or most recently there have been quite a few scenarios based on the popular “HALO” video game. In August of 2008 a big event was HALO: Insurrection hosted by Three Rivers Paintball in Freedom, PA. This event featured two teams based on the popular game and over $3,000 in prizes was awarded. Other events include the Oklahoma D-Day and Skirmish Invasion of Normandy which attracted huge crowds and lasted a few days. Most events last one to two days and can contain up to 18 hours of actual play.
Usually scenario games are object-driven in regards to scoring. In object-driven scoring there is usually a mission for points that are awarded. In the simplest version capturing a flag at a specific location and going to another location. These games usually involve props, multiple locations and interactive non-player characters. One great thing about scenario games are if a player is hit and eliminated they are usually allowed to return after a pre-set period of time. This gives the players a chance to be a part of the action throughout the event.
The equipment used in scenario games usually entails more than players would require in regular woodsball games. The markers preferred by scenario players usually resemble real guns more than players of other type games. Some of the more popular are markers made by Tippmann such as the A-5 or X7, or the popular BT 4 models. The Kingman Spyder MR series is another popular model scenario players like. Most of these guns feature slings or holsters which let the player keep their hands free and offer options such as mounting rails for scopes, lights, or even night vision optics. Beside the elaborate costumes some player wear, scenario paintball features other props built especially for the game such as paint grenades, grenade launchers and rocket launchers. In some scenarios there are even paintball land mines which spray paint when activated.
Most scenario events are planned well in advanced and most popular ones are actually held on an annual basis. These events usually involve networks of players who keep in touch via Internet forums and websites as well as the popular social networking sites. The players in these networks usually have a hand in producing the event either as the actual producers/promoters or for technical support or advisers.
As with all paintball sports safety is an issue and concern. Since scenario games last longer than most paintball games there is a need for rehydration so players may carry water bladders that allow them to drink without removing safety gear. In most major events there are first aid stations and trained medical personnel on hand. Other than the dehydration factor, scenario paintball is no more dangerous than any other paintball sport or game.
Other resources for scenario paintball information include:
David’s Paintball Blog Paintball Tips and Tricks Paintball Blog