USA Dodgeball uses all ball types across multiple tournaments held by them and their member organizations.

[2] Various rule sets governing number of balls and players are used around the world depending on the court size, level of play, and the organization's discretion.

More balls generally adds to the amount of action in a game, but can result in stalemate with many blocks.

Dodgeball can be played on any surface that has clearly marked boundaries and a center line, such as a basketball or volleyball court or fenced area.

The WDBF organizes games on beaches[5] and USA Dodgeball hosts tournaments at trampoline parks.

In WDBF regulations, the ball must be returned behind an "attack line", roughly a third of the way from the back of court.

A ball is considered "live" from the moment it leaves a player's hand up until it touches the floor, wall, or ceiling, when it becomes "dead".

[7] Optional rules may be in effect in informal games of dodgeball or in open matches by agreement: The following basic tactics are useful:[11] Many local teams and international teams develop their own tactics and calling systems specific to their style of play.

These become more complex in higher leagues, which often requires specific training for the players in calling positions such that they can make rapid, tactical decisions.

[14] The notion that gameplay resembles assault or is too aggressive has led to lawsuits and calls to eliminate the game from school physical education programs.