‘Wide Games’ include any game requiring or making use of any large area of land. Provided you stick to a few simple rules they are very easy to set up, very popular and can take advantage of any suitable area. Areas that are particularly good are where it is easy to hide such as woodland, heathland or open spaces with tall grass, but they can be played in large open fields, it’s just not as much fun when you loose the ability to hide and/or creep without being seen.
If you are familiar with organizing this style of game then feel free to carry onto the index of ideas. But if you are not then there are a few points you need to know.
For all wide games, those running it and the players need to be very aware of the size/boundaries and type of playing area. This is mainly from the point of view of safety particularly if you are playing in any area that is also open to the general public, as the playing areas used can be anything from a small field to several Km2 or more of woodland or forest. Needless to say, when picking your playing area as well be aware of possible and known hazards in relation to who is playing and what anything might be a danger to them. It helps when setting boundaries to take advantage of natural ones like paths, streams, edges of woods or fields. If necessary walk everybody around the boundary and/or spend a little time placing boundary markers that are within sight of each other. This could be anything from strips of bright cloth tied to a tree to custom made posts and/or lights. Some form of lighted boundary marker is very useful at night, but only really necessary if is difficult to determine a boundary.
Depending on the age of the players, the size and openness of the playing area, it may be worthwhile having several marshals patrolling the area to make sure boundaries and rules are being adhered to and you may even want to consider using mobile phones or short-range radios.
Coast Guards and Smugglers is an easy game to remember and requires virtually no setting up except for creating a single base. However, browse the suggested games below which are all tagged as possible or actual wide games to see if any suit you.
Have fun! and stay safe!
