In archery tag the mask is not optional. Our picks of full-face, paintball-rated masks for adults and kids, plus what ASTM ratings mean and why Nerf goggles aren't enough.

The playground classic with foam-tip arrows: cover fire, flanking runs and respawns. Setup, rules and diagrams for archery tag capture the flag.

The arrow is the most important safety decision in archery tag. Here are the foam-tip arrows worth buying, how to match them to a bow, and how to inspect them before every game.

Each team defends five foam targets, and knocking one down brings a teammate back. Setup, rules and diagrams for target knockout archery tag.

Bunkers make archery tag a game of tactics. Our picks from small party inflatables to commercial air bunker sets, with layout tips for backyards, parties and full fields.

One medic per team can heal wounded players with a touch, but a hit medic is out for good. Setup, rules and diagrams for medic archery tag.

The best first bow and arrow sets for ages 3 to 8, the pop-up targets kids actually love, and when a child is ready to move up to foam-tip archery tag.

Both teams fight for one zone in the middle of the field and score for every 15 seconds they hold it. Setup, rules and diagrams for king of the hill.

Bows, arrows and masks get the attention, but cones, pinnies, wide-mouth quivers and a good pump are what make an archery tag game run. Here is the field kit we'd pack.

Foam-tip arrows bounce off targets, so pick for visibility, scoring and fun. Our favourite pop-out, bag and youth targets for warm-ups and practice games.