Archery Tag Is The Ultimate Archery Game For All Ages
Whether you’re a sports lover or an experienced archer looking for something new, archery tag is a must-try for all. It combines elements of our favorite sports and activities to create one exciting challenge. Keep reading for tips on where and how to play these archery games!
What is Archery Tag?
At first glance, archery, a sport where we shoot sharp arrows, and tag, may not seem like the best combination. However, this unique sport has specialized equipment for maximum safety. It’s an archery-inspired game that takes place within an enclosed combat area.
Two teams play archery tag, each equipped with bows and homologated archery arrows tipped with foam. The main objective of this game is to eliminate the players of the other team. You can also collect points by hitting opponents.
This game may also be advertised as archery attack, archery battle, or archery combat. Whatever name you prefer, they are all the same. Since its creation in 2011, archery tag has expanded in locations and popularity.
How to Play Archery Tag
Archery tag consists of two teams facing up against each other in a combat area. It consists of two action zones which are separated by a neutral zone. Many players compare the game to dodgeball.
Teams typically consist of 4-9 players depending on the game’s location. This creates a total of between 8-18 players in the combat area. Each archery team will have its own zone, and players can only fire from their bows when positioned there.
Archery tag provides large objects to hide behind, take cover, and sneak up on the enemy in each end zone. Keep in mind that it’s considered against the rules to fire arrows in the neutral zone. This rule allows players to collect any arrows without leaving them vulnerable to attack.
It should be noted, though, that players aren’t allowed to loiter in this zone to hide or remain out of the game. That would be punishable by a referee! Archery tag usually begins with what’s called the “opening rush”.
When the referee whistles to initiate the game’s beginning, players from each team will run into the safe zone to retrieve their first archery arrows. Archers will then run back to their respective zones to proceed with firing and attacking. Since the game requires shooting at players, protective masks must be worn at all times in addition to other archery accessories.
Some locations may operate their arena indoors or an outside playing area. Wherever the arena is, there are various game models to play. Keep your eye out for recreational, league, and tournament archery games.
Rules of Archery Tag
The rules of archery tag can vary slightly depending on the game mode. With that being said, the basics and objectives of the game remain the same. Your goal in any style of archery tag is to score the most points during a timed match.
Points are awarded in archery tag for “hits”, “target hits”, and “catches”. Hitting an opponent will give your team one point. Knocking a spot out of the opposing team’s archery target awards you two points. Gain three points when an opponent’s arrow is caught mid-flight.
Now that we understand scoring, let’s dive into the general rules. During the game, all players must remain within boundary lines. The only timeouts permitted are for archery equipment safety issues and injured players.
If teams have more than four players, they can substitute archers between periods. This allows people to take breaks and give everyone on the team a chance to play. Additionally, arrows that land outside of the playing field may be collected by the staff and placed back into the safe zone.
Please keep in mind that violent behavior, disrespect, or inappropriate language to the referee or opposing team members will not be tolerated. Remain respectful on the field to avoid forfeit or suspension. In league mode, a player may remain in the game after being hit by an arrow.
When playing elimination mode, a player must leave the field after being hit. Catching an arrow in mid-air can bring a player back in. The game will run until all players from one team have been eliminated, or the time on the clock runs out.
Is Archery Tag Painful?
Getting hit with a bunch of arrows may seem unpleasant, but we promise it’s not bad. All bows and arrows in archery tag have been purposely designed and certified for use in the game that can’t be found in the archery store. The arrows are lightweight and lined with foam to prevent injury on impact.
In addition to having specialized equipment, players must wear protective gear. Only being allowed to shoot from the attack zone also creates a safer shooting distance to prevent injury. The security zone ensures arrows can’t be shot from too close.
Where to Play Archery Tag
Sounds exciting, right? So, let’s get you signed up! Playing requires going to an Archery Tag approved and registered locations.
Completing a simple online search, consulting local archery shop employees, and chatting with fellow archers will point you in the right direction. Archery tag is played worldwide with over 2,000 available locations. If you don’t have one nearby, consider taking a road trip.
How to Improve Archery Tag Skills
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Don’t worry about getting hit.
As previously mentioned, the game has specialized archery equipment to prevent injuries. You will feel the arrow upon impact, but the foam arrow will not hurt you. Try not to spend the whole game worrying about whether that flimsy thing will poke you.
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Change your aiming strategy.
Because of an archery tag arrow’s design, you will need to aim differently than you would with a typical arrow. Don’t aim directly at targets, but rather above them. Gravity will then assist you in hitting the archery target.
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Take your time shooting.
This may seem counterintuitive considering the game is timed, but patience is always key. Though a paper target will stay still until you hit it, your archery buddies won’t. A good strategy is catching your opponent by surprise.
If you do need to chase someone down, stop before taking aim to increase chances. While aiming in motion isn’t impossible, it’s much trickier than necessary.
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Have a strategy in mind.
Even though it’s all fun and games, consider making a plan of attack with your team ahead of time. Then, you won’t be winging it or gathering archery accessories once the timer starts. Run out, gather arrows, have other team members provide fire, and so on.
Enjoying a fun-filled session of archery tag has never been easier with our tips and tricks. Search online for a local spot, assemble your archery team, and get ready to shoot! If you’re still curious about all things archery, check out some more Crow Survival content.
