If you missed part one, check it out HERE!

So it finally came time for Tasha and I to step out on to the field.  The first course we played was a small one consisting of inflatable bunkers and obstacles.  These sorts of courses are used most commonly in tournament style play with the pros.  Just like us…or something.

ANYWAY we got to opposite sides of the field, then Colin yelled “3,2,1 go!” and we were off.  I really can’t describe to you the adrenaline rush you get when the match first starts.  You’re convinced that you’re going to get pegged in the face before you take 2 steps.  And I’m sure with player better than us that would be a distinct possibility, but we were pretty safe for our opening paces.  After a couple seconds of positioning we let loose our first salvos.

I think you can tell a lot about a person’s personality from the way they play paintball.  Are they aggressive?  Patient?  Defensive?  Tactical?  Manipulative?  I pretty much came out swinging, trying to find Tasha and nail her before she nailed me.  This was for first blood bragging rights after all!  She was infinitely more patient, holding her ground while she could then backing off to a more covered position when she needed to.  After around 30 seconds I finally scored a hit.  First blood was mine!  An ill-aimed paintball from me bounced off of a bunker and nailed her on her finger.  Ok, so not the most stylish hit, but first blood none the less.  It as all downhill from there.

Tasha then stepped up her game, faking me out and nailing me in the chest.  But what’s this??  The ball didn’t break!  I’m safe!  Until about 10 seconds later when she caught me peeking around a bunker and nailed me square in the goggles!  Well played Tasha!

After our introductory match Tasha and I headed to a larger field to play with others.  It was a medium sized match of about 15 people and Tasha and I fared respectably, staying in with the last 3 on our team.  Now, just for a second let me address the workout you get in this game!  Running around a paintball course, continuously running, ducking, squatting, and jumping is tremendous exercise!  My legs are still sore.

After taking a brief break to talk to Kevin and Colin and take a much needed breather, we were ready for our last match of the day:  The Iron Man round.  Let me explain:  The Iron Man round is when you keep playing until one person can’t take the beating or you run out of ammo.  Hard core.

This time we played on the tire course, a small course designed to promote aggressive play with little space for extended cover.  On this arena you had to go to the game or the game would come to you.  I thought this would be right up my alley.  “3,2,1, go!” and it was on!

After a brief hiccup where both of our guns jammed, it was a bloodbath.  Poor Tasha.  She got chased around the course, dripping paint from multiple “wounds” until she said she’d had enough.  To be fair though, she did hit me at least 3 times and one was a really awesome one dead in the middle of my forehead.  Tasha looked like I had painted her with polka dots, though!  I’m sure she’ll come back strong next time!

I really can’t stress how much fun this game is.  Definitely check it out at Hill13 if you’re in the Austin area.  They were super friendly and helpful, and the rates are top notch.  Plan your next party with them!

See you in the arena!