Bad weather doesn't have to cancel game day. With a little setup, a garage, basement, or cleared-out room can become a fast, close-quarters battlefield. Here's how to take the fight indoors - safely.
Pick the right space
Look for a room you can clear out and don't mind getting a little damp: a garage, basement, or empty rec room works well. Hard floors are easiest to clean, and more open space means safer, more fun games.
Protect the room first
- Move or cover electronics, screens, and valuables - gel balls are water-based and can leave moisture
- Lay down a tarp or old sheets in high-traffic spots to catch stray gels
- Clear breakables and trip hazards before anyone loads up
Build close-quarters cover
Indoor play is all about tight, fast engagements. Use cardboard boxes, furniture, and bins as cover to create corners, lanes, and hiding spots. Even a few obstacles turn a plain room into an intense CQB arena.
Dial down for indoor distances
Because engagements happen up close, agree on a minimum distance so no one takes a point-blank shot, and consider lower-powered blasters for tight spaces. Keep rounds short and rotate players often.
Safety indoors is non-negotiable
- Eye protection stays on - this matters even more in close quarters
- Aim for the body, never the face
- Set clear boundaries and a safe zone for reloading and breaks
Make cleanup easy
Keep a towel and a small broom or vacuum handy. Sweep up gels between rounds so floors don't get slippery, and do a final pass when you're done - indoors, a quick wipe-down is all it takes.
With the right prep, indoor battles are a great way to keep the action going year-round, rain or shine.
