About this activity
Archery tag is a trademarked name for a team elimination game that combines elements of archery, dodgeball, and paintball. Using a bow and foam-tipped arrows, the objective is to shoot opposing players and targets to win. Games are set up in an arena with obstacles that can be used strategically as cover. A player is tagged “out” if he/she is hit with an arrow or if an opponent catches his/her arrow. The game is won either by every member of the opposing team being tagged out, by hitting all five of the oppositions targets, or by hitting the most targets at the end of game play. Different locations can play with slightly different rules, including how many players are on each team and the duration of the game. All players must wear a face mask, with other padding being optional.
Origins & history
Archery tag began in 2011, when a prototype of a new archery product was created with a foam tip. Archery tag quickly spread as a global activity, and the game is played in dozens of countries on six continents. Archery tag began in Canada soon after the game was created and is now played all across the country.
When it happens
Archery tag games are held year round.
Who takes part
The minimum age to participate at most locations is 14 years old. The game is not associated with any particular ethnocultural groups.
