Basic flanking is a military tactic, that when executed successfully, will result in the enemy being surrounded by two or more sides. Just coming up from behind to attack may result in too many opportunities for the enemy to escape and casualties for the attacking team. Flanking is a very important tactical maneuver in paintball game playing.

Flank is another word for side. The idea of basic flanking is to attack the opponents from the sides. This tactic prevents the enemy from taking effective cover and makes the attack more successful for the aggressing team. A dedicated flank charge that is executed quickly and skillfully is challenging to repel. Flanking is one of the most useful strategies in paintball because it can be used in a variety of situations involving firefight. Team members should be skilled in communicating among themselves without giving away the plan to utilize basic flanking to the opponents. The idea is to catch the enemy unprepared for the attack. This can be done different ways:

• Verbally communicating the plan before the game begins.
• Using basic hand signals that are visible to team members but blocked from view by the opposing team communicate when and where the maneuver should be executed.
• Have a unique signal known only to team members that communicate that the basic flanking tactic will be used.

Be sure all team members know their role in a flank attack. This tactic can easily backfire, so be alert to what is happening on the field at all times when executing the basic flanking tactic.

Team members have different roles during a flank attack:

• Provide cover
• Cause a distraction
• Execute the attack

Since paintballs aren’t the most accurate projectile and paintballs move relatively slow, planning and executing a closer-range flanking maneuver is far the most effective way to eliminate opposing players one-on-one.

Always be aware of the other team’s movements as a group. Look for any signs that a flank attack may be in the works:

• Excessive cover is provided for a few paintball shooters from the opposing team. This may indicate a flank attack in being prepared.
• There is a high fire attack that is not effective in taking out players. This may be a distraction as the enemy positions for a flank attack.
• There are few opposing team members positioned on the sides, but not attacking. It could indicate preparations for a flank attack, so be prepared.
• Have a signal to let team members know there may be a threat of a possible flank attack so that they may be more aware and alert of activity on the flanks and be prepared.

Knowledge of basic flanking tactics is a great offensive option in most paintball games. Early detection of a flank attack from a defensive position can stop its effectiveness.