Paintball, airsoft and laser tag all end with the stag being hunted down – but they feel very different. Here is how they compare, so you can pick the right one for your group.
At a glance
17 mm
paintballs that leave a mark
6 mm
plastic BBs in airsoft
0
projectiles in laser tag – it uses infrared
10+
players needed for laser tag in Riga
1–2 h
typical game session
How they compare
Paintball
Messy and painful – in a good way
Gelatin balls filled with paint burst on impact and leave a mark, so there is no arguing about who got hit. Hits sting and often bruise. Played outdoors, about 35 minutes from the centre.
Airsoft
The realistic option
Replica guns fire small plastic BBs. They leave no mark, so players call their own hits. Less painful than paintball, but they still sting. About 20 minutes from the centre.
Laser tag
Zero pain
Infrared guns and sensor vests – nothing actually hits you. Indoors in an arena or outdoors, about 10 minutes from the centre. The easy choice for mixed groups.
Good to know
🥽 Masks stay on
In paintball and airsoft, eye and face protection is compulsory on the field.
👕 Wear old clothes
Paint is water-soluble, but wear something you do not mind getting dirty.
🕙 Play first, drink later
Book it for the morning or early afternoon – these are sober activities.
🚐 Transport
All three are outside the Old Town, so book a minibus for the group.
🎯 Target the stag
Put the stag in a bright costume or make him the VIP the other team must protect.
Team games in Riga
FAQ
Which hurts more – paintball or airsoft?
Paintball. The balls are bigger and heavier and often leave bruises. Airsoft BBs sting and can bruise; laser tag does not hurt at all.
Which is best for a stag do?
Paintball if you want a story and bruises to show, airsoft for tactics and realistic kit, laser tag if part of the group wants no pain.
Do we need our own equipment?
No. Guns and protective gear are provided at the venue – see each activity for what is included.
Can the stag wear a costume?
Yes – and he should. Just keep the mask on.
