Bad Balloons

indoor large space physical short game team quick prep competitive

The Airborne Assault #

An exhilarating team-based game that combines speed, strategy, and the sheer fun of balloon battles. Teams face off in an arena with a field of balloons at the center, reminiscent of dodgeball but with a twist. At the start signal, participants rush to push balloons into the opponents' territory, aiming to have the least number of marked balloons on their side when the timer buzzes. Quick reflexes, strategic movement, and teamwork are key to victory in this fast-paced, balloon-flinging frenzy.

How to Play #

Divide players into two teams, each taking positions on opposite ends of the play area. Line up balloons in the center of the area, ensuring an equal number on both sides for fairness. Mark some balloons with a sharpie to designate them as scoring balloons. When the game starts, players run toward the center to slap balloons towards the opposing team's side.

The game is played in rapid, intense rounds lasting 25 seconds each, to keep the energy high and prevent the activity from becoming monotonous. Players can slap, push, or bat balloons but cannot hold onto them for more than five seconds, preventing hoarding and encouraging continuous movement. If a player holds a balloon too long, they're temporarily disqualified but can rejoin in subsequent rounds, keeping the game inclusive and dynamic.

After the timer ends, players must immediately stop; any balloons still in motion or in the air can land and be counted. The team with the least number of marked balloons on their side at the end of the round scores points. The game can consist of multiple rounds, with the team accumulating the most points declared the winners.

Rules #

Team Formation: Two teams of equal players, positioned at opposite ends of the play area.

Balloon Placement: Balloons, marked and unmarked, are evenly distributed at the center line at the start of each round.

Game Duration: Each round lasts 25 seconds, with a clear audible timer to signal the start and end.

Balloon Handling: Players must not hold onto a balloon for more than five seconds. Violating this rule results in temporary disqualification for the round.

Scoring: Only marked balloons are counted towards the score. The team with fewer marked balloons in their area at the end of the round earns points.

Round Repetition: The game consists of multiple rounds to ensure all players have ample participation and to accumulate scores for a final tally.

Start and Stop: Players must immediately cease action when the timer ends. Balloons that land after the timer are still counted.

Safety: No physical contact between players is allowed. The focus is on the balloons, not on opposing team members.

Re-entry: Disqualified players can rejoin the game in the next round, promoting inclusivity and continuous play.

Winner Determination: The team with the most points after all rounds are completed wins the game.

Fair Play: Teams are encouraged to play fairly, with sportsmanship and respect for all participants and rules.

Materials #

Materials Required:

Balloons: A large quantity of balloons, half marked with a sharpie for scoring.

Timer: A stopwatch or digital timer visible to all players, used to time each round.

Marking Pens: Sharpies or other permanent markers to designate scoring balloons.

Scoreboard: A visible scoreboard to keep track of points earned by each team across rounds.

Setup #

Setup Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Arena: Mark the boundaries of the play area clearly, with a distinct center line where balloons will be placed at the start of each round.

  2. Balloon Preparation: Inflate a sufficient number of balloons, marking half with a sharpie for scoring purposes.

  3. Team Assembly: Organize participants into two teams, briefing them on rules, safety, and the game's objectives.

  4. Timer Setup: Ensure the timer is loud and visible to all players, ready to signal the start and end of each round.

  5. Scoreboard Display: Set up a scoreboard in a location where it's easily seen by participants and spectators.

  6. Safety Briefing: Emphasize the importance of avoiding physical contact and playing safely, especially as the game involves rapid movement.

  7. Round Planning: Decide on the number of rounds in advance, allowing for brief pauses in between for scoring and strategy adjustments.

  8. Start the Game: With teams ready and balloons in place, start the timer for the first round and let the balloon battle begin.

  9. Ongoing Management: Monitor adherence to the five-second rule and overall fair play, disqualifying players as necessary but allowing them back for subsequent rounds.

  10. Final Tally: After all rounds are completed, tally the scores to determine the winning team.