Border Raid
Two countries split by a border try to steal the rival flag without getting caught. With jails, rescues and passports that give immunity. Great in the woods.
- Age
- 8–17 yrs
- Players
- 16–60
- Duration
- 45–90 min
- Setting
- Outdoors · Woods
- Equipment
- Equipment needed
- Prep
- 15 min
- Energy
- High
This is the wide game for countless camps and scout groups. Our version adds passports so more cautious players also dare to attack, and a distance rule that stops a team from defending the whole time.
To keep it from dragging on, agree on the length beforehand and announce the score at every break.
Step by step
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Split the area into two halves with a clear line (the border). At the far end of each half, place the flag somewhere visible and mark a "jail" of about 3 × 3 m (10 × 10 ft) next to it.
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Form two color teams and give each 6 passports. Allow 5 minutes for each team to plan its strategy in its own half.
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The goal is to cross the border, grab the rival flag and bring it back to your half without being caught. The first team to do it wins (or the team with the most captures in the agreed time).
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In enemy territory, if a rival tags you, you go to their jail. A teammate can free you by reaching you and taking your hand without being tagged; you both walk back with a hand raised.
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A player holding a passport can cross without being caught for 30 seconds but can't take the flag. Once used, the passport goes to the counselor.
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Nobody may enter their own jail or stand within 5 m (15 ft) of their own flag, so attacking is always possible.
-
Take a water break every 20 minutes and announce the score.
Variations & adaptations
Night version
Each team wears glow bracelets in its color and the flag is a lantern. Only on familiar ground with counselors at fixed points.
Four countries
Split the area into four quarters with four flags. Alliances between countries change the whole game.
Ages 8–10
Drop the passports and let caught players return on their own after counting to 30 in jail.
