In this section of our guide, we will discuss laser tag, an enjoyable activity involving simulated combat and shooting. During the game, players use light guns emitting infrared light to tag specific targets, which each player usually wears to record successful hits.
Laser tag is a popular recreational combat sport that combines physical activity, strategy, and technology. It offers a safe but thrilling experience for participants of all ages, making it a favorite for parties, team-building events, and casual play.
The origins of laser tag go back to the late 1970s and early 1980s. The U.S. Army developed a training system known as MILES (Multiple Integrated Laser Engagement System) for combat training. The system used infrared transmitters and detectors, laying the groundwork for the recreational version of the game.
Inspired by "Star Wars" and the idea of using lasers in a game, George Carter III developed the first commercial laser tag system. In 1984, he opened the first Photon laser tag center in Dallas, Texas.
Laser tag equipment typically includes infrared-emitting guns, known as taggers, and sensors worn by players. The taggers emit harmless infrared beams, and the sensors detect hits, registering them on a player's vest or headband. Modern laser tag systems have evolved considerably, incorporating advanced technologies like real-time scoring, GPS tracking, and interactive props.
Equipment used in laser tag is designed to be durable and user-friendly. Taggers are lightweight and easy to handle, while vests are equipped with multiple sensors to ensure accurate hit detection. Some systems have touchscreen displays, vibration feedback, and customizable game models.
Laser tag is similar to paintball in many ways, although paintball involves shooting paint-filled pellets at opponents, which can leave visible marks and sometimes cause minor bruising, while laser tag is a non-contact sport with no physical projectiles. Additionally, paintball is often played in outdoor environments with natural or artificial cover, while laser tag is typically played in indoor arenas with neon lights and themed environments.
Laser tag is an engaging recreational combat sport that has evolved from military training technology to a popular activity for players of all ages.
Recommended Resources
At Battle House Tactical Laser Tag, with locations in Illinois, North Carolina, Texas, and Wisconsin, the 100% veteran-owned company features props like fake bombs, airstrikes, domination cubes, and others; designed to keep everyone engaged and entertained for over an hour. Its locations, customer reviews, packages for parties and events, team-building, and fundraising, gift cards, and FAQs are set forth, and an online form is available for questions or bookings.
https://www.battlehouselasercombat.com/
The LazerX Arena in Kirkland, Washington, promises an ultra-realistic first-person shooter experience on a Hollywood movie-style set using the same equipment and software deployed by SWAT teams and Special Operations around the world. Its location, map, and contacts are provided, along with client testimonials. Pricing for Ultimate Tactical Laser Tag, Group Nerf Wars, and large events or facility rentals are featured on the site, with scheduled events, online booking, and a gallery of photos.
https://www.lazerxarena.com/
Situated in Loveland, Colorado, the Loveland Laser Tag Center features a 5,700-square-foot, 3-level arena with an Egyptian theme, a laser maze, escape rooms, a 400-square-foot free-roam virtual reality arena, a ropes course, a climbing wall, arcade games, and a cafe. Its location, hours, contacts, pricing, and special offers are featured, and interested people may book a party or buy passes online. Team-building, school trips, and youth group packages are available.
https://www.laserfuncenter.com/
With locations in Maryland, and Virginia, Shadowland offers a unique laser tag adventure environment for anyone from six to sixty. It provides a whole-group activity for families, youth groups, sports teams, and businesses. Packages are available for birthday parties, business team-building activities, and other group activities. Activities include laser tag on a massive, multi-level, carpeted area and a maze-like obstacle course of lasers. Photos, videos, and an online store are available.
https://www.shadowlandadventures.com/
Offering a tactical laser tag experience, Tac Ops has facilities in Fairfield, Florham Park, and Princeton, New Jersey. Addresses, contacts, and timings are published on the site. Possible missions include a Team Death Match (take down the enemy team), Elimination (last man standing), Capture the Flag (capture the enemy's flag), Domination (control the objectives to beat the enemy), and VIP (keep your VIP safe while taking down the other team's VIP). Client reviews are published on the website.
https://tacopslasertag.com/
