A paintball competition does not follow a rigid set of rules. There are a variety of rules and these are usually agreed upon before the game starts. The most basic game involves trying to accomplish a goal without being hit by a paintball. When a player is shot, he must raise his marker to indicate that he is out, and leave the playing field. The rules can vary in many ways.

Regardless of the kind of game that is played, the players are required three basic pieces of equipment. The paintball marker is used to tag the opponent with paintballs. They will also need the spherical gelatin capsules called the paintballs. They are also required to wear paintball masks or goggles. These should completely cover the eyes, mouth, ears and nostrils.