As an expert in outdoor shooting games, I’m always on the lookout for new and thrilling ways to enjoy this adrenaline-fueled activity. While paintball has been my favorite for years, if you’re looking for something with less mess, a new challenge, or a change of scenery, there are plenty of alternatives out there to explore.
In this post, I’ll be sharing my top paintball substitutes that will give you a different kind of fun. So, if you’re ready to switch things up and explore new recreational shooting games, keep reading!
1. Laser Tag
Here fun meets a healthy competition!
You may know one of my favorite games is laser tag— even I could hardly say NO to any similar vibrant shooting games. It is a painless and safer alternative to paintball for all age groups that involves tagging opponents with harmless infrared beams in various game modes. Laser tag arenas frequently include a variety of obstacles and hiding spots, making gaming more exciting and strategic.
You can play laser tag both indoors and outdoors in a variety of settings, including laser tag arenas, woodlands, lawn and even abandoned buildings. As a result, it is a versatile game that can be adjusted to varied tastes and ability levels.
2. Gel Blaster
Gel blasting is the best way to prepare for action-packed outdoor games that involves shooting squishy water-absorbent gel balls without leaving stains.
It is comparable to paintball in terms of gameplay, but the bullets used are more environmentally friendly, have lesser speed and leave no mess behind. Gel blasters are becoming increasingly popular among recreational gamers due to their inexpensive cost, lower speed and ease of use.
What I like best about gel blaster is the sense of friendship, teamwork, and thrill it promotes. Working as part of a team to fulfill tasks, defend locations, or destroy opponents needs rigid communication, strategy, and trust, all of which can help develop relationships while enjoying the game.
Also, playing gel blaster is a terrific way to keep active and get some exercise while having fun. The fast-paced gaming and continual movement necessitate physical agility and endurance, which might enhance your fitness.
3. Airsoft
Do you want a popular alternative to paintball? — airsoft is the nearest relative. Here some plastic pellets are fired from realistic copies of actual firearms.
Airsoft guns are more accurate than paintball guns because their pellets are smaller, harder and faster. This recreational game frequently involves imitating real-life military circumstances, making it an excellent choice for shooting gamers like me who prefer tactical and strategic playstyle.
I enjoy playing airsoft because it is an immersive, realistic, and entertaining pastime that combines strategy, collaboration, and adrenaline-fueled action. The thrilling tactical gameplay, fulfilling objectives, and sense of teamwork combine to produce a gratifying experience.
Another appealing part of airsoft is the wide range of viable battlefield options and game modes. There are a variety of scenarios to accommodate different play styles and interests, ranging from capturing the flag to hostage rescue missions.
4. Nerf
Nerf or nothing!
Some of my childhood buddies are still obsessed with the game. Nerf, as a paintball alternative, has evolved into a fun and competitive pastime for people of all ages. Played by shooting foam darts at opponents with foam-based blasters, nerf guns are available in various sizes and types, and gaming can range from casual backyard battles to organized events.
Nerf games are simply enjoyable and always bring a grin to my face while providing hours of fun, whether I’m playing with friends, family, or by myself. Unlike paintball, they are suitable for indoor play because of the foam darts and soft materials, which is ideal for rainy days when I can’t go outside.
Besides shooting foam darts, you can also try the classic dart throwing games. I’ve personally playing with electronic dart boards and soft tip darts for 5+ years, and I can’t help but confess that the experience is an absolute delight.
5. Splatmaster Paintball
Splatmaster is a low-impact paintball game that uses smaller, lighter paintballs that are easier to shoot and less unpleasant when they hit you. It’s an excellent choice for younger players or those new to the sport.
One of the best advantages of Splatmaster is that it is suitable for all ages. Unlike traditional paintball guns, Splatmaster paintball guns fire small, soft, low-FPS pellets that are mild on the skin and create little to no mess. This makes it an ideal sport for families, children, and anyone who wants to experience the thrill of paintball without the risk of injury.
6. Reball Or Paintless Paintball
This game, commonly known as reusable paintballs, replaces paint-filled balls with rubber or foam balls. These balls may be reused, minimizing the sport’s environmental impact and making it more cost-effective for players. The gameplay is similar to classic paintball, with teams aiming to eliminate opponents by blasting rubber or foam balls at them.
I have to add paintless paintball or reball for late-night events as all my gaming circle members are not comfortable with paint, protection, or bruises on the body. I had a misconception that it may be an upgraded version of the laser tag, but it’s not. My school senior’s prank helped me to introduce it.
One of the primary benefits of reball and paintless paintball is that players do not have to deal with the mess and clean-up involved with traditional paintball. There is no chance of stains or harm to clothing or equipment without using paint-filled balls.
7. Archery Tag
Aim, shoot, and conquer like a Gladiator— archery tag adventures await you.
It is a game similar to dodgeball that can be played as both outdoor and indoor recreational game, but participants tag their opponents with foam-tipped arrows instead of throwing balls. It’s a fun and safe way to enjoy the thrill of archery while avoiding damage or injury.
Archery tag, unlike standard paintball, uses foam-tipped arrows that do not leave bruises or welts on the skin. This makes it an excellent sport for those seeking the adrenaline rush of combat-style games without the risk of damage.
It is also an excellent recreational game for improving hand-eye coordination, balance, accuracy, and concentration. Archery tag demands players to aim and shoot precisely while dodging approaching arrows, which can be an excellent method to enhance cognitive and physical fitness.
8. Water Guns
Are you looking for a fun and refreshing summer activity to do with family and friends?
Have a look at the classic water gun game! In this entertaining recreation, we fill our toy guns with water and then attempt to shoot each other with the water to get us wet. You can add some color to it.
It’s a simple yet exhilarating game that’s ideal for a hot day and a perfect way to remain cool while having fun. You can see it as a safer alternative to paintball with almost similar vibes.
The water gun game is also quite versatile and may be played in several ways. Gamers can compete one-on-one, in teams, or in a free-for-all (unorganized) mode. There are also various water cannons on the market with different designs.
Water guns are a timeless and enjoyable option for people of all ages. These entail shooting water at opponents with a plastic water gun in a number of games and scenarios.
So, whether you want to avoid any chances of injury and mess of paint or simply want to change the taste (safer options), the numerous alternatives provide various options to fit your interests. I felt this need most when I had to spend a few years in California a decade back, where I could not play paintball for being under 18!
From the strategic gaming of laser tag to the realistic simulation of airsoft, each option has its own features, advantages, and rewards. Therefore, if you want to try something new or change up your recreational activities, try one of these paintball alternatives and see what all the hype is about!
