What is paintball?
Paintball is a team sport where players use markers to launch small, paint-filled capsules at opponents. When a capsule breaks on a player, they are eliminated from that point.
At tournament level, paintball is fast, tactical and highly organised. Teams communicate, make decisions under pressure and work together to control the field. It takes fitness, practice and trust in your teammates.
Malta Paintball focuses on competitive paintball, including speedball, where teams play on a purpose-built field with inflatable bunkers.
Tournament paintball is more than a game of eliminations
A tournament point is a short, intense contest between two teams. Players move between bunkers, communicate with teammates and try to reach the objective while avoiding being hit.
Depending on the format, the objective may be to eliminate the opposing team, reach a designated point on the field, or complete both. Every player has a role, and the team has to adapt as the point unfolds.
Tournament paintball rewards preparation and teamwork as much as individual skill. Teams practise movement, communication, field strategy and decision-making.
What is speedball?
Speedball is a form of competitive paintball played on a flat, open field with inflatable bunkers. The bunkers are arranged in a standard layout, giving both teams the same starting conditions.
Because the field is open, players can see and communicate with one another. Points move quickly, and players must make decisions in seconds: when to move, when to hold a position, and how to support their teammates.
Speedball is the format Malta Paintball plays in regional and international competition.
What happens during a point?
Players begin at their team’s starting area. When the point starts, they move into position and communicate information about the opposing team.
A player is out if they are hit by a paintball that breaks on them. They must leave the field promptly and follow the referee’s instructions. The remaining players continue until the point is decided.
Referees monitor the game, check eliminations and enforce the rules. Their job is to keep the point fair and make sure players follow the safety requirements.
Is paintball safe?
Paintball involves fast-moving projectiles, so safety rules are essential. Organised play depends on players, referees and event staff following those rules every time.
Players must wear approved paintball goggles whenever they are inside the playing area. Goggles must not be lifted or removed while on the field. Markers must be kept under control, with barrel covers used when play is not underway. Markers are also checked to make sure they meet the applicable velocity limit.
Players are expected to listen to referees, follow field instructions and treat other participants respectfully. New players receive a safety briefing before taking part.
What equipment do players use?
Tournament players use paintball markers, loaders that feed paintballs into the marker, and compressed air systems that power it. They also wear protective clothing and carry a harness that holds extra paint.
Players need a properly fitted paintball mask designed for the sport. The exact equipment used can vary, but every player must meet the safety requirements for the session or event.
Who can play?
Tournament paintball is for people who enjoy team sport, competition and learning new skills. You do not need to have played before to become interested. New players can learn the basics gradually, with experienced players helping them understand the game and its rules.
There are also ways to contribute without playing. Teams and events need referees, pit crew, photographers, volunteers and supporters.
Malta Paintball
Malta Paintball is building a competitive paintball community in Malta and representing the sport in international events. Our players have competed in the UK and France, and we are working to develop the facilities and pathways needed for the sport to grow locally.
We want more people in Malta and Gozo to discover tournament paintball, get involved and help build the next stage of the sport here.
Interested in getting involved? Follow Malta Paintball for training, events and opportunities to take part.