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Attack and Defend

Attack and Defend reference article.

Overview

Attack and Defend is an asymmetrical paintball format in which one team occupies and protects a fixed position while the opposing team attempts to capture or reach the defended area within a set time limit.

Key Points

  • Uses asymmetrical roles: one team defends a fixed location while the other advances toward it.
  • Common in woodsball, scenario, and urban style constructed fields.
  • Defenders hold fortified positions; attackers approach along multiple routes.
  • Rounds are usually timed, requiring attackers to complete the objective before expiration.
  • Emphasizes coordination, movement timing, and structured field awareness.

Details

Attack and Defend is a long standing objective based format featuring asymmetrical starting positions and responsibilities. One team begins inside or adjacent to a fortified area, which may include natural cover, constructed bunkers, towers, or designated buildings. The defending team uses these positions to establish overlapping fields of view and structured lanes, maintaining control of key approach angles.

The attacking team starts at a distance from the defended zone and attempts to advance and reach the objective before the round timer expires. Attackers often distribute across multiple access routes to apply pressure from different angles. Their progress depends on timing, synchronized movements, and the ability to reduce or bypass the defenders’ established positions.

Objectives vary according to the event. Some versions require attackers to touch or enter a defined location, secure a marked object, or tag a designated bunker. Others involve placing a flag, retrieving an item, or reaching a target zone. Scenario events may incorporate extended objectives, such as holding the stronghold for a set duration after capturing it.

Because roles are asymmetrical, gameplay dynamics differ significantly between attacking and defending sides. Defenders manage structural advantages through communication and coordinated positioning, while attackers focus on controlled advances, spacing, and identifying openings. The flexibility of the format allows it to scale from small recreational groups to large multi squad scenario operations.

Attack and Defend is widely used due to its clear objectives, distinct team responsibilities, and adaptability across varied terrain and field designs.

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