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During the last two decades, paintball has seen a meteoric rise to popularity thanks to a free-flowing style of play and countless variations of the rules and objective. The game is a fun and safe group activity for combat-enthusiasts when played correctly. With more outdoor facilities and technological improvements to the equipment popping up each year, paintball seems destined to continue to make its mark on the extreme sports landscape.

The game has seemingly limitless interpretations, but the two most common forms of gameplay are "elimination" and "capture the flag". Players are removed from the game after being struck with a small capsule containing food coloring and gelatin that fires out of a paintball marker. Markers usually rely on compressed air tanks and gravity-fed or electronically-forced loaders to fire the projectile. While officials are often on site in regulation games, paintball relies on the honor system. Players are expected to take themselves out of the game after being hit if the capsule breaks and leaves a mark the size of a U.S. quarter. Bruises and welts can form after being struck, which is why it is generally recommended that players wear masks and several layers of clothing.

• "Woodsball" is a also popular game type played outdoors in natural terrain that prominently features trees.

• Professional paintball leagues have popped up all over the United States and Europe. The British Paintball League was formed in 1989 and served as the first organized professional league of its kind. Modern day American leagues include the National Professional Paintball League (NPPL) and Premier Paintball League (PSP).

• Legality of the game differs from country to country. Players must be 18 or over in Germany, while it is widely accepted in Ireland with no government regulations. Eight American states have specific legislation for paintball. In Illinois, players must be over the age of twelve and can only shoot on private property or target ranges.

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