Overview
Evolution and adaptation at the largest game in the World
Overview
Now in its 23rd year, Skirmish Invasion of Normandy is still the largest game in the world.
Between the spectacle of paintball that is the beach battle, the sheer scale of the event, and the massive field of field of play with non-stop battle, it is simply difficult to describe in words. It is also an experience that serves as the flux that bonds friendships and families across miles of distance and decades of time.
There is a change in the guard in progress at IoN, though. This year saw the departure of the legendary Axis general Mike Conklin. Although many of his contemporaries are still carrying on in his footsteps, they are designing their new army in their own image, and it showed through. On the Allied side, general Colin Sayers handed the reins to Patrick“ Mercer” Whalen. He too has the support of the men and women who made up the scaffold of Allied command over the past two decades, but there was a noticeable difference in the Army this year that came down to, you know, vibes.
As is tradition at IoN, the festival before the event is almost as captivating as the game itself. This year, the Duel Club was hosted again on Gold Beach on Friday before the game. And in its second iteration, the Highland Games, a fundraiser benefiting Ally Remembered Foundation was held with some success. As the sun set, the festival goers engaged in other traditions such as the Diplomatic Reception, an opportunity for some quality cosplay, and as is tradition, the Germans hosted their annual fiestas in the Gnarkill party on Thursday night and the Predator party on Friday.
It was reported that 3,800 players were registered for the event this year, which is slightly down from years past, but not nearly enough to feel noticeable in any facet. Among the masses was the G. O. A. T. himself, Ryan Greenspan of San Diego Dynasty, who would have the rare opportunity to experience the game from all
www. paintball. media
081