Next Level Paintball – Adelaide

Next Level Paintball in Monarto is an outdoor adventure park that offers a really energetic and thrilling day out for families with older kids and teens. It’s not just a field in a paddock; it’s a purpose-built facility with a variety of themed playing zones, including a multi-level fortress, trenches, and a village, which makes the experience feel more like a real-life video game. They offer traditional paintball, which uses the familiar paint-filled pellets, as well as Splatball, a lower-impact version designed for a younger audience. It's a fantastic option for birthday parties, family get-togethers, or just a way to burn off some serious energy in a unique setting, located about a 45-minute drive from the Adelaide CBD.

Age Appropriateness

This is a key one for families. For traditional paintball, the minimum age in South Australia is 10 years old. Next Level is strict on this for safety reasons, so you'll need to keep that in mind. However, they do offer a great alternative called Splatball, which is designed for kids aged 8 and up. Splatball uses smaller, lighter-weight guns that shoot smaller paintballs at a much lower velocity. This means it stings a lot less, making it a perfect introduction to the sport for younger kids or those who might be a bit nervous about the impact of regular paintballs. It’s a great way to include slightly younger siblings in the fun.

The Highlights (Pros)

First off, the staff are fantastic. They are consistently praised for being professional, friendly, and brilliant with the kids. They run a very thorough safety briefing at the start, making sure everyone understands the rules and how to use the equipment properly, which really puts a parent's mind at ease. The game zones themselves are a massive drawcard; they are incredibly well-designed and varied, which keeps the games exciting and engaging for the entire session. The equipment is all well-maintained, and the provided overalls, while not the most fashionable, do a great job of protecting clothes from the worst of the paint. The whole operation feels very polished and safety-conscious, which is exactly what you want when you’re handing your child a paintball gun!

The Watch-Outs (Cons)

Let's be honest, getting hit with a paintball, even in the heat of the moment, can sting and will likely leave a bruise or a welt. While the kids are usually running on so much adrenaline they barely notice at the time, there might be a few colorful marks the next day. It's also not a cheap day out. The packages include a certain number of paintballs, but enthusiastic players can go through them quickly, and buying extra paintballs on the day can add up, so it's something to budget for. The location in Monarto is a bit of a drive from Adelaide, so you need to factor that travel time into your day.

Practical Survival Tips for Parents

• Book in Advance: This is especially important for weekends or school holidays as sessions can fill up quickly. Booking online is straightforward.
• Dress the Part: Have the kids wear old, comfortable clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty. Even with the overalls, paint can find its way through. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes like old sneakers are essential for running around the uneven terrain.
• Manage the Paintballs: Have a chat with your kids before the games start about conserving their paintballs. It’s easy to get trigger-happy! Setting a budget for extra paint beforehand can avoid any arguments later.
• Hydration is Key: It’s a very physical activity. Pack plenty of water and some snacks for afterwards, as everyone will be tired and hungry.
• Embrace the Fun: If you’re not playing, find a spot in the designated safe zones where you can watch the action. The excitement is contagious, and it’s great to see the kids working in teams and strategizing. It’s a fantastic confidence-builder