• Tips for Playing a Backman

    paintball-1961038_960_720The backmen play an important role in any AC Paintball game. They are the main defenders for both your team and any relics your opponent may be trying to capture. As with many sports, the quality of your paintball team’s defense can make or break your chances at success. When you play a backman, you need to be ready to support your team. Thus, you should know what to focus on and make sure to practice your skills.

    Focus on Defense

    As an AC Paintball backman you are in charge of protecting both your team and any important relics. When playing capture-the-flag, defend-the-castle or VIP, you will want to pay close attention to your post. You shouldn’t be wandering off to do other aspects. Learn how to scan the field and look for movement in the distance. Being watchful is a crucial skill for a backman. Even if there are periods without action, you need to stay focused on your goals. It only takes a few seconds for your other team’s runner to hit you or steal the flag.

    Protect Your Teammates

    Even if you are not playing capture-the-flag, you need to be able to protect your teammates. As they move up the field you need to be ready to provide backup for them. If they get stuck in an ambush, you may be their only chance of getting out without getting eliminated. You should create distractions and draw the enemy’s attention. This way your teammates can move across the field unnoticed.

    Practicing your shooting skill is also important. You will need to be able to shoot accurately to be able to defend your team. It is also helpful to learn to shoot with both hands. This way you can shoot from either side of a bunker and still keep most of your body protected. If you lack space to practice at home, consider buying an AC Paintball membership.

    Choose the Right Equipment

    Equipment choice is an important aspect for any paintball position. Your marker should complement your skills and responsibilities. As a backman, you will want to choose a gun that can fire quickly and accurately. If you plan on renting your equipment from AC Paintball, the Valken V-Tac SW-1 may be your best choice. It has less recoil than the Tippman model which will help when rapidly firing many shots. You will also want a harness or backpack so you have means for carrying extra ammunition.

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    Prepare to Use a Lot of Paint

    When you plan to be a backman at AC Paintball, you need to prepare to use lots of paint. You need to protect the flag or your teammates at all costs. At times you may need to use the spray-and-pray shooting method to ward off the enemy. Out of all the positions, you will need the most paint. AC Paintball offers 500 paintballs for $19.95 or 2000 for $65.42. Players who buy membership can get a discount on these prices.

    Communicate Well

    You have one of the best views of the field. While you only have to look in one direction to see the entire field, other players have to watch their back. You can be helpful by watching your team’s back for them. If you know where they are and see trouble near them, warn them. Update them about the movements of the enemy.

    You are also in charge of telling the roamer when to take over for the front man. Walkie-talkies are one of the best ways to communicate. You can also use code words, or body signals when your teammates are close enough to see and hear you. Be sure to devise a communication strategy before playing at AC Paintball.

    Learn To Be a Leader

    Many teams like to put their most experienced player at the back as a captain. If you are a leader, you need to be able to make good decisions. Research strategies and learn how to outsmart your opponents. You may want to focus on movement. Know where to position both yourself and your teammates so that you can overwhelm the enemy. Learning to be a good backman will assist you in leading your team to victory.

     

  • Creative Ways to Make Your AC Paintball Party More Fun

    paintball birthday NJDo you have a birthday or a wedding coming up? Are you interested in throwing a thrilling and memorable party? If so, AC Paintball in Williamstown, New Jersey has just the venue you are looking for. While most party planners go bowling, to a sporting event, or out to dinner, you can show your out-of-the-box thinking by planning a paintball extravaganza instead.

    AC Paintball offers five different fields to various party packages. With some extra planning, you can make your special occasion a memorable one. Check out some of these ideas that will make your paintball party stand out.

    Different Games

    Many players choose to play common games like elimination or capture the flag. Shake things up by choosing a different game. If there is a person of honor in your party, VIP or President can be a fun game to play. One team tries to eliminate the VIP while the other team protects them.

    If there are two persons of honor, you can have each one be a captain. They can compete by stealing the other’s players. Rather than eliminating a player, a hit causes them to change teams. The captain who steals all their opponent’s teammates first wins.

    AC Paintball scenario games can be fun as well. You can play as your favorite characters from movies, books, or video games. You can even add mini challenges for teams to compete in a different way. For instance, have players collect tokens hidden around the course. If you want to make a point, you can try a boys vs. girls game or adults vs. kids game. There are plenty of options to choose from.

    paintball bacheloretteCoordinated Uniforms

    Coordinated outfits can help unify your team. It makes people feel special because they are part of something. You can get together beforehand and make T-shirts. Then you can head to AC Paintball to show off your skills and creativity.

    If you want something more than decorated shirts, you can role play in different costumes. You can do as princesses, superheroes or soldiers. There are endless possibilities. The choice is up to you.

    Just be sure that whatever outfits you choose are easy to move in and safe to play paintball in. Also, be aware that some party member may want to wear padding under or over their uniforms. AC Paintball is a “safety first” facility and is careful to monitor both our fields and equipment.

    Give Awards

    Giving awards can make everyone feel special. You can give prizes for various achievements. For example, MVP, team player, and best shooter. If you want to be a little more original, you can do prizes for silly things. For instance, craziest outfit, funniest playing style, or most talkative. If you want to make trophies, a simple solution is to paint plastic army figurines gold and glue them to a platform. If your party is a corporate outing, your coworkers can keep their awards at their desk to show them off.

    paintball birthday cakePaintball Themed Snacks

    After a few games, everyone will want to refuel. You can add a special touch by adding a paintball flare to your snacks. Whatever snacks you choose, make sure to fit the AC Paintball theme. Bright colors or camouflage can give your food character. Gumballs are great dessert toppers that look just like paintballs. If you lay out snacks in bins, use creative labels such as fuel or ammo. These touches will give everyone something to talk about.

    Take Photos to Remember the Day

    A great way to remember your AC Paintball party is to take a few pictures. Before and after photos are fun to compare. Comical photos are sure to make you smile when you look back on your outing later. If you are hosting a child’s birthday party, your kids may enjoy taking the photos in for show-and-tell.

    Schedule an AC Paintball Game Today!

    If you would like to schedule a game or view party packages, you can do so here: https://acpaintball.com/schedule-paintball-game/. AC Paintball looks forward to helping you host your party. If you have any questions you can contact us here https://acpaintball.com/contact/ or call 609-561-3883.

     

  • How to Effectively Cool Down After an AC Paintball Game

    silhouette-1788908_960_720What is your routine after playing an intense game at AC Paintball? How do you return your body to a restful state? A cool down is an important part of any paintball game that is sometimes overlooked by players. After playing a tiring game of paintball, it is tempting to just sit down on a bench and try to catch your breath. Yet, taking a few extra minutes to gradually return your body to a restful state is healthier.

    If you don’t know how to effectively calm down after a game, it is time to learn. AC Paintball is here to help.

    Importance of a Cool-Down

    Heart

    A proper cool down benefits your body in a variety of ways. It gives your heart a chance to adjust to the level of exercise. When playing at AC Paintball your heart rate rises. Between the excitement and exercise, it may beat anywhere from 75-200 bpm (beats per minute). The number will vary depending on your health and age. The average resting heart rate is 60-100 bpm. If you go from a high rate to a low rate too quickly, you may experience dizziness due to the reduced level of work.

    Blood Circulation

    A gradual cool down also helps keep your blood circulating. As you play, your muscles use nutrients and oxygen. These nutrients will need to be replenished so you can continue to play more AC Paintball games. Your body transports more nutrients to your muscles through your blood stream. Therefore, it is important to keep your blood circulating after exercise.

    Flexibility

    When you use your muscles to exercise, they become warm. This is the ideal time to stretch them because it is easier for the muscles to be moved around. Stretching your muscles regularly will improve your range of motion. The more flexible you are, the better you can move during your next AC Paintball game.

    Easy Exercise

    Start your cool down routine with some easy exercise. Make sure that the level of activity is somewhere between intense and resting. Jogging in place or taking a few laps around an AC Paintball field is one of the best options. You can also try some dynamic stretches that gently move your body. Gradually slow down your pace and don’t forget to breathe.

    jog-1005897_960_720Static Stretching

    Once you lower your heart rate, you will want to do some static stretches. This will keep your muscles from getting stiff. Unlike dynamic stretches, your body stays in one place while you hold a certain position. Stretch everything! Paintball uses your whole body, so make sure your stretching routine is through. You may want to put some extra focus on your legs, back, and shoulders as they are usually worked the most.

    Try to hold each stretch for 20 – 30 seconds, but don’t strain yourself too much. Pushing yourself too hard risks injury. Again, don’t forget to breathe.

    Rehydrating

    As you breathe and sweat, your body loses water. When you are finished playing, you will need to replenish your fluid and electrolyte deficit. You don’t want to get dehydrated. Water is your best option, but some athletes also use sports drinks or even chocolate milk. Don’t drink too much all at once. Be sure to consistently drink enough over the next two days after your AC Paintball visit, though.

    Snacking

    Finally, you need to recover the energy and nutrients your body used to help you play. After the game, find your favorite southern New Jersey restaurant and order something healthy. Something packed with protein will help replenish your energy and keep your muscles strong. This includes beef, chicken, and fish/sushi. Other healthy options include whole-grains, fruits, vegetables, yogurt, and nuts/seeds.

    With proper care and attention, your body will be ready to go again, so you can play another game at AC Paintball!

  • Improving Your Reaction Time

    You’re playing an intense game of woodsball when your eyes meet your opponent’s. You both know what is about to happen, but you don’t know what the outcome will be, yet. That all depends on who has a better reaction time. In this situation, the fastest trigger finger wins. If you’re equally matched, you may both be eliminated. Reaction time is an important skill when playing at AC Paintball. You need to train your reflexes to beat your opponents and avoid getting hit.

    So how do you improve your reaction time? There are a variety of drills, hobbies, and skills you can practice.

    rubiks-cube-157058_960_720Improve Your Mental Speed

    The reaction process starts in your brain. First, your brain gathers information through your senses. You make look for movement on the AC Paintball field, or listen for markers firing. Then it will analyze the facts. You realize you are in danger of elimination. Finally, it sends signals to the rest of your body to help you navigate the situation. You run away or shoot to defend yourself. The stronger and healthier your brain is, the faster this process takes place.

    Puzzles

    Training your brain with different daily challenges will improve your thinking speed. Regularly doing crosswords, Sudoku, Rubik’s cubes, etc. can enhance your cognitive abilities. While exercising keeps your body in shape, solving problems will keep your brain healthy.

    Video Games

    Some video games may also help. Classic games like Frogger, Pong, or Pinball can train your brain to focus on many moving pieces at once. Strategy-based games and shooter games also train you to be alert and ready to take action. While using these training tactics, you can track your progress with a reaction test. There are many apps and websites out there that can help you gauge your abilities.

    Improve Your Agility

    Once you get your brain up to speed, you need to make sure your body is ready to do the work. Now is the time to combine your mental skills with some physical challenges. Choose drills that require coordination and specific instructions. This will help you prepare for anything when playing on an AC Paintball field.

    Ball Drills

    Ball drills are a great way to learn to adjust to your surroundings. Grab a partner and play a game of catch. Have the partner vary the speed and direction so that you never know what kind of throw is coming. You will have to judge where the ball is going quickly and adjust your position accordingly. Once you get good with that, mix it up. Find a wall and stand facing it. Have your partner stand behind you and throw the ball at the wall. Once again, you will try to catch the ball.  However, it will be more difficult because you cannot see which way your partner is facing.

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    Clock and Foot Movement Drills

    Playing paintball puts your entire body to work. Not only do you need to be coordinated enough to aim your marker, but you need to be able to know how to move your feet as well. Try doing some stepping drills that prompt you to keep specific rhythms with your feet. You can use a stepping stool, jump rope, ladder, or even play Dance Dance Revolution. Just choose a specific pattern and keep practicing.

    Another drill you can try is setting up four objects around you. Place each one a few feet in front of you at the front, back, and sides. Have an AC Paintball buddy give you different random directions for each object. For instance, pick up the object in from of you, step on the object to your left, or do three spins at the object behind you. Once you get good, you can make the directions more creative. You can make up code words for each direction to make you think more. This drill will help you practice interpreting, analyzing, and executing.

    Practice Awareness and Try to Predict Your Opponents Moves

    Even if you don’t have the best reaction speed, there are other ways to get ready to defend yourself. One of those options is practicing awareness. Minimize distractions and prioritize your goals. Listen closely for your AC Paintball opponents. If you hear something you can prepare to aim or dodge ahead of time. Once you play for a while, you will begin to notice your opponent’s tendencies. Then you will be able to predict their actions and learn to counteract their moves.

    Schedule a Game at AC Paintball

    Now is the time to put all your skills together. Plan a game at AC Paintball’s facility in Williamstown, New Jersey. The more you play, the better you will get. Every game you play will build your knowledge and skills. You can schedule a game here: https://acpaintball.com/schedule-paintball-game/.

  • Tips for Playing a Frontman at AC Paintball

    paintballFrontmen, also known as pointmen, are an important component to any AC Paintball game. They are the leaders who charge ahead and scope out ambushes, targets, etc. If you want your team to be successful, you need to learn how to be a capable player. After all, a team is only as good as its weakest player. Every player should know their position, practice, and prepare appropriately. Check out these tips, then put your skills to the test at our facility in Williamstown, New Jersey.

    Plan Your Strategy Ahead of Time

    The start of the game is not the time to be figuring out a plan, especially for frontmen. You need to plan a strategy beforehand. When the game starts the runner should be aggressive and move onto the opponent’s side quickly. You need to complete your objectives and learn important information for your team. Use AC Paintball’s bunkers or trees for protection as you work your way across the field.

    Be Daring, but Patient

    As an AC Paintball frontman, you need to find the right balance between being bold and being patient. You need to be willing to take chances, so you can complete your objectives. At the same time, you need to have some patience. If you don’t take some time to analyze the situation, you may get caught off guard. You won’t be much help to your team if you get eliminated from the game. You also can’t be afraid to get hit.

    Be Aware and Ready to Run

    Since you are ahead of the rest of your team, you need to be aware. You don’t have anyone in front of you to warn you of ambushes, snipers, and traps. You need to listen carefully and be ready to run. If you hear firing you need to have quick reflexes to get out of the way.

    When not playing on AC Paintball’s fields, you should condition your body. Lift weights and stretch thoroughly so you have the strength and flexibility to squat, crouch, and dodge. You should also practice cardio and balance to help you run faster.

    Communicate Well With Your Team

    No matter what sport you are playing, every team needs a good communication system. Whether you use walkie-talkies or hand signals, you need some way to tell your team your plans. As a frontman, you need to warn the midfield and backfield about the other team’s positioning. When they know important facts ahead of time, they can prepare to take out dangerous opponents. They can also better protect you and each other.

    paintball-1282158_960_720Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Backup

    Almost everyone wants to be a hero. If you win the game for your team you can expect praise and glory. Yet, you don’t want to become a show-off. Other players want to feel useful too. Even if you are the best player on your team, don’t be afraid to ask for backup. Another player just might save you from elimination.

    Carry a Light Gun

    Every AC Paintball player needs to choose their marker wisely. Every gun has different features that work well with different players and positions. As a frontman, you will want to choose a light gun. Since you are a player that is always on the move, you can’t have extra attachments weighing you down. You can also plan on not needing as many paintballs as the average player.

    Be a Good Leader

    Frontmen are usually one of the most experienced players. They need to be intelligent and know how to predict the other team’s moves. You need to know what to expect and how to strategize. Pointman may be the captain or just a fast runner, but no matter what they need to support their team. They need to be good leaders. Encouraging your teammates gives them purpose. When people have a specific role to play, they tend to have more fun and perform better.

     

  • Different AC Paintball Bunkers and How to Use Them

    Paintball would be a different game without bunkers. You wouldn’t have to think about hiding or plan your movements strategically. It would just be a big open field with players shooting at each other. The setup and layout of bunkers on the AC Paintball field can help determine what game you should play. Bunkers come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials. Each one has different uses, advantages, and disadvantages.

    10658860_496608440479653_4244368542241473132_oAt AC Paintball we put thought into the layout of our fields. We carefully select and place each bunker where it can be most useful. Studying the layout of the field before the game will help you create a plan of action. You can choose which path you want to take and where your snipers should hide out. Use the bunkers strategically and you can improve your chances of winning.

    Cylinders and Trees

    AC Paintball’s cylinders are tall and narrow. This is one of the most common types of bunkers. They can be found at almost any paintball facility in southern New Jersey. Cylinders are good for keeping you covered in a straight standing position. They are tall so that you don’t have to worry about attacks from above. You can peek and shoot out to the side and then quickly take cover again.

    You do have to worry about your side and back, though. This is why most cylinders are placed near the back or outer edge. When placed in the middle, your opponents can easily flank you from the back and sides.

    Lay-down Cylinders and Military Drop Tank Bunkers

    Lay-down cylinders are long and the low to the ground.  AC Paintball typically uses this type of bunker along the fence or in the middle as a divider. This allows players to easily crawl from one place to another.  Since most players focus their point-of-view slightly higher, this is a stealthy way to move around.  You may even be able to move onto your opponent’s side without getting caught. However, if someone does spot you from above, you will become an easy target.

    Spools

    hiddenshotYou can find both large and small spools on our Williamstown fields. They provide excellent cover as they are both tall and wide. You can safely stand behind tall spools or kneel behind short ones. Their rounded edges make them easy to peek around without exposing yourself too much. They are a useful tool when playing a game with checkpoints.

    Barrels

    Another common bunker is the barrel. You can usually find them in sets of two or three at AC Paintball. They share a similar shape with cylinders, but they are shorter and wider. You can safely couch behind one to hide from fire and pop up to shoot at your opponents. Be careful with this approach, though, you leave your entire top half exposed at the back and side. If you aren’t paying close attention, an opponent can take you out in an instant.

    Cones

    Cones are one of AC Paintball’s smallest bunkers. Thus, they are usually not a player’s first choice when looking for shelter. Yet, they are useful for bunker-hopping. They can offer good protection when crouching as they are wide at the bottom. When standing, they are also easy to peak around.

    Pentagon

    Many paintball fields in New Jersey have their own unique bunkers. We have a pentagon made of military drop tank bunkers that are stacked together. This is the largest bunker you will find at AC Paintball. Unlike other bunkers, it can shelter a group of people.  You can safely stand within it or crouch to look out the opening between the stacked drop tank bunkers. It is a useful shelter for defend-the-castle or hostage games.

  • How to Improve Your Paintball Aim and Accuracy

    target-practice-65647_960_720There is nothing like the feeling of hitting your target in one shot. It makes you feel powerful and skilled. The more accurate your aim is the more paintballs you can save and the more helpful you can be to your team. When your aim is good, you can conserve your paintballs. With the money you save on ammo, you can soon afford an extra session at AC Paintball in Williamstown, New Jersey.

    Accuracy is one of the most important skills a paintball player needs. If you can’t hit your target, you will have difficulty eliminating your opponents. Check out AC Paintball’s aiming tips so you can contribute more to your team’s victory.

    Practice

    The best way to improve any skill is to practice. Go to a shooting range or find another safe place to practice. You can also practice by playing more games at AC Paintball. Start with a stationary target and an average distance. Once you get good with that, you can try shooting at different angles and distances. After a while, you can try moving targets.

    You may not notice increased ability right away, but it you keep practicing you will get better. Your teammates likely will too.

    Choose the Right Marker

    On the day of your AC Paintball game, the first thing you need to do is choose the right marker. Different guns shoot differently. Some are more accurate, shoot more rapidly, or shoot further. You will want to choose the marker that will compliment your skills. This will help you succeed in your position.

    Typically longer and slimmer barrels are more accurate. You will also want to make sure the paintballs fit well in the barrel. Keep in mind that guns with attachments, may make heavier. This can hinder your ability to run and hold up the gun for a long time.  More weight can also make it difficult to distribute weight. This can affect your accuracy.

    If you are renting a gun from AC Paintball, you have two choices. These are the Tippmann Custom 98 Marker, and the Valken V-Tac SW-1 Marker. Both are fairly matched in accuracy, but the Tippman has more of a recoil. This can affect your accuracy when firing multiple shots in a row.

    Test Your Marker Before the Game

    tippmann paintball markerBefore you start your AC Paintball game, you will want to test your marker. Make sure that it is clean. Dirt in the barrel can change the direction and speed of the paintball.

    You can also test how your marker fires. Find a safe place to fire with no people around. Then pick a target and fire at it. Watch where it goes. If it doesn’t fly completely straight, adjust your aim and try again. Keep testing until you figure out how to adjust your aim so that each shot is more accurate.

    Align Your Marker with Your View

    Another helpful technique for aiming is to line up your marker with your eyes. When you don’t center the gun with your body, it is more difficult to judge angles. By centering it, you can help ensure the paintball flies where you want it to go. Be careful, though, if your marker recoils a lot it may fly back toward your face. Although you are wearing a mask, you still don’t want to hit yourself in the face.

    If parts of your marker block your view, tilt it slightly to the side so you can see. Try to keep it as centered as possible.

    Have Patience and Relax

    Some AC Paintball players get so excited that they forget to take the time to aim. If an opponent jumps out, your first instinct is to start shooting in their general direction. Whether they see you right away or not, the sound of your shooting will alert them of your position. Then they will start firing back at you. If they are an accurate shooter, you will be out of the game.

    It only takes a few extra seconds to aim. You just need to have patience and keep your focus. If you have dozens of thoughts cluttering your mind, it will be difficult to hit your target. You might be surprised just how much a little extra attention can improve your accuracy.

    paintball-1477263_960_720Check Your Posture

    In any sport, coaches teach players the proper positions and movements to shoot accurately. In a paintball game, posture will affect your aim. If you are in an awkward position, it can be difficult to angle your gun and fire straight. The best posture is with your chest and toes pointed toward your target. Center your gun with your body.

    Moving Targets

    During an AC Paintball game, players are always on the move. Your target won’t always be standing still. A common technique for moving targets it to lead them. Judge your target’s speed and keep your gun pointed ahead of them. Predict where your opponent will be when you pull the trigger. Then figure out how long it will take the paintball to reach your target. Combine your calculations and fire at just the right moment.

    Hitting a moving target will take plenty of practice. However, if you master this skill, you will become a valuable player.

  • Paintball Tips and Strategies for Capture-the-Flag

    golf-1468162_960_720What are the keys to winning a capture-the-flag game? AC Paintball has witnessed a variety of different strategies throughout its years of operation. Some strategies work, while others fall just short of victory. If you want to win your next game, AC Paintball is here to help. Check out these useful plans and tricks, so you can outwit your opponents!

    Rules and Planning

    When playing any game, it is important that everyone knows and understands the rules. Capture-the-flag rules often change. Depending on where you are playing and who you are playing with. Make sure everyone is on the same page before you start.

    After everyone knows the rules, each AC Paintball team can begin planning their strategies. Most teams like to split up into three separate groups. The front or runners are in charge of scoping out the flag and your opponents ambushes. The middle group covers the front and tries to eliminate a majority of your opponents. The back defends your flag and territory.

    Traveling Strategy

    Although you split up into three groups, you should try to avoid traveling in those groups. It can make it easier for your opponents to hit someone and dwindle down your team. At the same time, you should not travel alone. It can make it easier for an opponent to sneak up on you. For the best protection, AC Paintball recommends traveling in pairs.

    Traveling in pairs will also help you cover more of the field. Make sure that about one-third of the pairs run up the middle while the other two-thirds flank on the sides. Also, be sure to come up with a communication strategy. If you are playing on one of AC Paintball’s larger fields, you don’t want to be yelling. It will give away your position.

    The Flag

    paintball forest pathwaySince your flag is the most important object in this game, you will want to protect it any way possible. Walk around AC Paintball’s field before the so that you can find the perfect spot to hide your flag. If the opposing team is watching you hide your flag, have a few different players pretend to hide the flag as. This will help distract your opponents.

    During the game, don’t focus your defense around the flag. This is a dead giveaway to the location of your flag. You will want your opponents to have to find it first. This way your team has more time to find their flag.

    Don’t Waste Time

    In AC Paintball elimination games, the goal is to stay in the game the longest. In capture-the-flag, there is a different time constraint. You need to be quick and complete your objective before the opposing team reaches your flag. When the game starts, don’t wait around. Run straight into the game and get to where you are going. If you wait, you will lessen your chances of getting to the flag first. You have to be daring and fearless.

    Thin the Enemy’s Numbers First

    When your enemy is at full strength, it is difficult to make it across the field. By taking out many opponents at the start, you can make capturing the flag much easier. If the flag carrier doesn’t have as many people shooting at them, they are more likely to make it back to home base.

    Don’t Forget to Protect Your Flag

    williamstown nj paintballOne mistake you should avoid making is forgetting to protect your flag. It is possible to get so focused on reaching their opponent’s flag, that some teams neglect their own. Before they know it, the other team has their flag and is heading back to home base.

    Defensive players need to be smart and alert. If you sense an opponent near your flag, but can’t see them, you can try to scare them with heavy fire. This may help hold them off so that your team has more time to capture the flag.

    Capturing the Flag

    The task of actually capturing the flag is one of the trickiest parts of the game. Just like your team, your opponents will be highly guarding their flag. One strategy is to have the runner and a small backup group stealth around the enemy’s boundary. Have the protectors take out as much of the enemy’s defense as possible.

    The runner needs to be watchful and aware at this point. If they see an opportunity they should take it. They may not see another one. When choosing a runner make sure they are fast and bold.

    Moving Back to Base

    How large are your enemy’s numbers? If they are low, you can take a chance and try darting back across the AC Paintball field. If there are still too many, you will have to try a different tactic. Have the group scatter and continue to take out opponents. Some can also pretend to have the flag to throw of adversaries. The flag can also be passed between teammate to add more confusion.

    If you can outwit your opponents, you can make it back to your home base victorious! Then you can gear up for your next game at AC Paintball in southern New Jersey.

  • Types of Paintball Players and How to Play with Them

    paintball-girl-1748134_960_720Although paintball players all share a love for paintball, they can differ in many ways. AC Paintball has seen various types of paintball players throughout years of business. Everyone has different personalities, skills, and preferences. It is interesting to meet different characters and see how they interact. Yet, sometimes players can have difficulty working together.

    Learning about each player can make your team stronger. Figure out how each person can contribute to the group. Then give them responsibilities that suit their nature. Below are some common types of paintball players you may find at AC Paintball in southern New Jersey.

    The Lone Wolf

    The lone wolf is can be a bit of an introvert who doesn’t like being in large groups. They don’t care for giving or receiving countless commands, either. They prefer to be on their own and do their own thing. This player will enjoy playing on a wooded field like AC Paintball’s Blue Thunder Woods Field. In large fields, they can find their own spot away from constant interaction.

    If you have a lone wolf on your team, give them a goal that they can complete on their own. They can be a sniper or take care of a completely separate goal. Don’t underestimate a lone wolf, though, they may just surprise you and be the key to victory.

    The Heavy Shooter

    When a heavy shooter plays at AC Paintball, you can tell by the end of the day. They buy the most paintballs and often like to customize their markers. Heavy shooters tend to like to be in the middle of the action, taking out as many opponents as they can.

    When you have a heavy shooter on your team, you will want to put them in charge of ambushes or defense. They are sure to protect your team and help dwindle down your opponent’s numbers.

    The Sharpshooter

    The sharpshooter has amazing focus and can hit targets that the average player can’t. If a single opponent is causing trouble, count on your sharpshooter to take them out. They know what they are doing and typically upgrade their markers for improved accuracy. Their equipment is usually heavier, so don’t give them a job that involves too much running.

    Like the lone wolf, sharpshooters make good snipers for your AC Paintball team. You may also want to consider using them as a mid-player so that you can move them around as you need.

    runner-580055_960_720The Roadrunner

    The roadrunner is the fastest player on your team. If they get into trouble, they are most likely to get away. You will want a roadrunner on your team whenever you are playing a game like Capture-the-Flag. Their equipment and uniform should be light to ease movement. They should also wear appropriate shoes for running.

    Roadrunners make good frontmen when playing at AC Paintball. They can move into your opponent’s territory early and find traps to warn the rest of your team. You will also want to put them in charge of objectives that involve a lot of running.

    The Professional

    Professionals have plenty of experience and have been playing for years. You can count on them to do their job and help the rest of the team perform theirs. You can look to the pro for tips and advice. You will want to professional at your side while you are planning a strategy.

    Professionals can be helpful anywhere. If they are supportive, you may want to put them in a group so they can help out other players.

    The Motivator

    The motivator is your biggest team player. No matter what their skill level, they will always support and help the team. They will volunteer for risky jobs, sacrifice themselves, and share their ammo. These players can make excellent captains for your team. Even if they aren’t the best player on the team, they can be crucial in keeping your team energized.

    Motivators work well in groups when playing at AC Paintball. Depending on how you split up your team, you can put them midfield or in the back.

    New or Timid Players

    Although no one will admit to being timid, there is likely to find some on your team. It may be their first time playing at AC Paintball. They might just need a chance to get used to the sport. These players work well as your defense. More adventurous and seasoned players typically go for offensive positions. Yet, forgetting about defense can be a fatal flaw.

    If you play VIP/President, Defend-the-Castle, or Capture-the-Flag, have these players protect your zone. Give them plenty of tips and support. With some time and practice, they may become one of your best players.

     

  • Tips for Being Unpredictable and Tricking Your Opponents

    black-and-white-1283234_960_720Sometimes, the difference between winning and losing can be determined by one factor. This factor is unpredictability. Many historical sporting events, competitions, and wars throughout history have ended with surprising outcomes. Every season, sport-experts make predictions about power rankings and who will win. Yet, no matter how much they compile statistics, they still make errors. Unforeseen events can change history in an instant.

    Mastering the art of deception can be a useful trait when playing at AC Paintball. It can help any player gain control over the outcome of the game. Paintball is one of the most strategic sports out there. When you think outside the box, you can take advantage of more opportunities. When your team’s chances look bleak, you can turn the game around.

    Deceptive Movement

    Location plays an important role in paintball. To eliminate someone, a player has to know where their target is. If your opponent can’t find you they can’t eliminate you. Deceptive movement is extremely helpful for frontmen at AC Paintball. If you can create a show that distracts your opponent, you can sneak into their zone.  Then you can more easily complete your objective. These tactics are difficult to use on a speedball field. Yet, they can be very useful in AC Paintball’s wooded fields.

    Using Teammates

    There are a few tactics you can use to trick your opponents when it comes to location. The first involves working with your teammates to create a distraction. When you need to move, signal your teammates to create noise or a distraction. When the enemy is preoccupied with shooting at your teammates, you can sneak in. Then you can capture the flag, rescue a hostage, etc.

    When You Are Alone

    If you don’t have teammates nearby, there are still some ways to fool your opponents. You can throw a stick or tree into a tree or bush to create sound away from your position. While the enemy is distracted by the sound, you can move where you need to. When possible, be sure to try and cover up and evidence of your whereabouts. Try not to leave footprints or a trail for your opponents to follow.

    Use Deceptive Codes

    paintball-1449870_960_720Using code words is a great way to communicate orders without giving away plans to your opponent. Codes can be even more deceptive if you make one order sound like it means something out. Take Iceland and Greenland, for example. Iceland is green with a nice climate while Greenland is covered in ice. Many believe the Nordics mixed up the names to mislead rivals who were trying to invade their land.

    Your team can use the same tactic. Pick a landmark on an AC Paintball field and use it as a code word that means something else. If your opponent is spying nearby, they will overhear your conversation. They may think they understand your plans and report the information back to their team. Then their team will create a plan to try and win. Meanwhile, your team can assume where your opponent will be and create a strategy to win the game.

    Changing Your Strategy

    Many teams who play weekly practice the same strategy over and over. It can help improve the game by knowing what to expect from your teammates. When you use this tactic, it can help build team chemistry, but it also makes your team predictable. If you send the same team members to the same places each time, your opponent will notice. Then they will eventually figure out how to win every time.

    Your team can use this to your advantage, though. If you use the same strategy for a few games, but then change your tactics, you can throw off the other team. This tactic can also be distracting. When you use this tactic, you teach your opponent’s not to underestimate you. It can make them a bit fearful, and throw them off their guard.

    soldier-160419_960_720Talk to No One

    Defensive strategies can also trick your opponents. When playing at AC Paintball, it can be terrifying when you are alone and a group of enemies come near. You have to be extra quiet to avoid them noticing you. Yet, one tactic actually involves making noise. If you are alone, pretend you aren’t. Create a conversation that sounds like you are talking to a teammate.

    This may cause the enemy to see the situation as more of a threat. If it sounds like more than one person is nearby, they may not be as quick to ambush you. Walkie-talkies can also be useful in this case. You can leave an extra Walkie-talkie in a strategic spot.  When appropriate you can talk into it to make your opponent thinks there is a player there. Then, while they head toward the sound, you can sneak up on them. This approach can be useful to snipers at AC Paintball.

    Be Fair

    AC Paintball focuses on fun, friendly, and fair paintball. We encourage participants to agree upon rules before beginning play in Williamstown, New Jersey. Some players prefer games without any tricks. Also, be sure to review AC Paintballs rules and regulations at the following link: https://acpaintball.com/ac-paintball-rules-and-regulations/. If you are ready to test to strategy and trickery skills, you can schedule a game here:  https://acpaintball.com/schedule-paintball-game/.