Laser tag is a recreational shooting sport where participants use infrared-emitting light guns to tag designated targets. Infrared-sensitive signaling devices are commonly worn by each player to register hits and are sometimes integrated within the arena in which the game is played1 Laser tag is popular with a wide range of ages and can be played indoors or outdoors, in teams or individually, and with various game modes and objectives. In this article, we will explain what laser tag is, how it originated, what you need to play it, how to play it, and how safe it is.
What Is Laser Tag?
Laser tag is a game that simulates combat scenarios using light-based weapons and sensors. Unlike paintball or airsoft, laser tag does not involve any physical projectiles or pain, making it suitable for players of all ages and fitness levels. Laser tag can be played in different settings, such as indoor arenas, outdoor fields, or mobile units. Laser tag can also be customized to fit different themes, such as sci-fi, military, or fantasy. Laser tag is a fun and exciting way to exercise, socialize, and compete with others.
The History Of Laser Tag
The concept of laser tag can be traced back to the late 1970s and early 1980s, when the United States Army deployed a system using infrared beams for combat training. This system, called Multiple Integrated Laser Engagement System (MILES), functioned like laser tag in that beams were “fired” into receivers that scored hits2 The first known toy to use infrared light and a corresponding sensor was manufactured and marketed in 1979 as the Star Trek Electronic Phaser Guns set to accompany the release of Star Trek: The Motion Picture3
In 1982, George Carter III began the process of designing an arena-based system for playing a scored version of the game, a possibility which had initially occurred to him in 1977 while watching the film Star Wars. The Grand Opening for the first Photon center was in Dallas, Texas on 28 March 1984. Carter was honored by the International Laser Tag Association on 17 November 2005 for his contribution to the laser tag industry. The award is engraved “Presented to George A. Carter III in recognition for being the Inventor and Founder of the laser tag industry”.
In 1986, the first Photon toys were sold, nearly simultaneously with the Lazer Tag toys from Worlds of Wonder and several other similar infrared and visible light-based toys. Worlds of Wonder went out of business around 1988, and Photon soon followed in 1989, as the fad of the games wore off. Today there are laser tag arenas all over the world bearing various names and brands, as well as a large variety of consumer equipment for home play and professional grade equipment for outdoor laser tag arenas and businesses.
Age Requirements
There is no official age limit for playing laser tag, but some venues may have their own policies regarding the minimum or maximum age of participants. Generally, laser tag is suitable for anyone who can hold and operate a laser tag gun, which can range from 6 to 12 years old depending on the model and weight. Some venues may also require parental consent or supervision for younger players. Laser tag is a great activity for families, friends, and parties, as it can accommodate players of different ages and skill levels.
What Do You Need To Play Laser Tag?
To play laser tag, you will need the following equipment:
Laser Tag Guns
Laser tag guns are the devices that emit infrared beams and trigger the sensors on the targets. Laser tag guns can vary in size, shape, color, and functionality, depending on the brand and model. Some laser tag guns may have features such as sound effects, vibration feedback, reload buttons, scopes, and different firing modes. Laser tag guns can also be classified into different categories, such as pistols, rifles, shotguns, or snipers, depending on their range, accuracy, and power.
Vests
Vests are the garments that contain the sensors that register the hits from the laser tag guns. Vests can also have different colors, shapes, and sizes, depending on the brand and model. Some vests may have additional features, such as lights, speakers, or displays, that indicate the status of the player, such as health, ammo, or score. Vests are usually worn over the clothing of the player, and are connected to the laser tag gun by a wire or a wireless connection.
Protective Gear
Protective gear is optional, but recommended, for playing laser tag. Protective gear can include items such as helmets, goggles, gloves, or pads, that protect the player from accidental bumps, falls, or injuries. Protective gear can also enhance the immersion and realism of the game, as well as the comfort and safety of the player. Protective gear is usually provided by the venue, but players can also bring their own if they prefer.
Game Control System
The game control system is the software and hardware that manages the rules, settings, and scores of the game. The game control system can be controlled by a computer, a tablet, or a smartphone, depending on the brand and model. The game control system can also communicate with the laser tag guns and vests, as well as other devices, such as cameras, speakers, or screens, to create a dynamic and interactive gaming environment. The game control system can also store and display the statistics and rankings of the players and teams, as well as generate reports and feedback.
Apparel
Apparel is the clothing and accessories that the player wears during the game. Apparel can include items such as shirts, pants, shoes, hats, or masks, that suit the theme and style of the game. Apparel can also affect the performance and visibility of the player, as well as the comfort and enjoyment of the game. Apparel is usually chosen by the player, but some venues may have their own dress code or provide costumes for the players.
Please refer: What To Wear To A Laser Tag Game? A Guide To The Perfect Outfit
The Objective Of Laser Tag
The objective of laser tag can vary depending on the game mode and the preferences of the players. Some common objectives are:
- Elimination: The goal is to eliminate all the players or teams from the game by depleting their health or lives.
- Capture the Flag: The goal is to capture the flag or the base of the opposing team and bring it back to your own base without being tagged.
- Domination: The goal is to control the most zones or points on the map by tagging them with your laser tag gun.
- Team Deathmatch: The goal is to score the most points by tagging the opposing team members with your laser tag gun.
- Free for All: The goal is to score the most points by tagging any other player with your laser tag gun.
Playing The Game
To play laser tag, you will need to follow these steps:
- Choose a venue: You can either visit a laser tag arena near you, or rent a mobile laser tag unit that can be set up at your desired location. You can also buy your own laser tag equipment and play at home or outdoors.
- Choose a game mode: You can either select a game mode from the available options, or create your own custom game mode with your own rules and settings.
- Choose a team: You can either join a team or play individually, depending on the game mode and the number of players. You can also choose a team color or a team name to identify your team members.
- Get equipped: You will need to wear a vest and a laser tag gun, and optionally, protective gear and apparel. You will also need to check the battery level and the functionality of your equipment before the game starts.
- Get briefed: You will need to listen to the instructions and the safety rules from the staff or the game master, and ask any questions or clarifications if needed. You will also need to familiarize yourself with the layout and the features of the arena or the field, and the objectives and the scoring system of the game.
- Start the game: You will need to wait for the signal or the countdown to start the game, and then proceed to your starting position or your base. You will then need to use your laser tag gun to tag your targets and avoid being tagged by your opponents. You will also need to follow the rules and the objectives of the game, and communicate and cooperate with your team members if applicable.
- End the game: You will need to stop the game when the time limit or the score limit is reached, or when the staff or the game master signals the end of the game. You will then need to return to your base or your exit point, and remove your equipment and your protective gear. You will also need to check your score and your statistics, and compare them with other players and teams.
Please refer: How to Plan a Laser Tag Party That Everyone Will Love
Please refer: How To Win Laser Tag: Professional Tips, Tricks, and Winning Strategies for Game Dominance
Different Game Modes
Laser tag can be played in different game modes, depending on the preferences and the skills of the players. Some common game modes are:
- Solo: This is a game mode where each player plays individually, and competes against all other players. This game mode is suitable for players who want to test their own abilities and challenge themselves.
- Team: This is a game mode where players are divided into two or more teams, and compete against each other. This game mode is suitable for players who want to work together and have fun with their friends or family.
- Co-op: This is a game mode where players are grouped into one or more teams, and cooperate against a common enemy or a scenario. This game mode is suitable for players who want to experience a story or a mission, and immerse themselves in the game.
- Custom: This is a game mode where players can create their own game mode with their own rules and settings. This game mode is suitable for players who want to customize their own game and have more variety and flexibility.
Related: How Long Does a Laser Tag Game Last?
The Fundamental Rules Of Laser Tag
Laser tag is a game that requires skill, strategy, and sportsmanship. To ensure a fair and enjoyable game, players need to follow some fundamental rules, such as:
- Respect the equipment: Players should not damage, tamper, or misuse the laser tag equipment, such as the guns, the vests, or the arena. Players should also not cover, block, or remove the sensors on the vests or the targets. Players should report any malfunction or problem with the equipment to the staff or the game master.
- Respect the staff: Players should listen to and follow the instructions and the safety rules from the staff or the game master. Players should also not argue, cheat, or disobey the staff or the game master. Players should ask for permission before leaving or entering the arena or the field.
- Respect the other players: Players should not physically or verbally abuse, harass, or intimidate the other players. Players should also not tag or shoot the other players at close range, in the face, or in the sensitive areas. Players should apologize and help the other players if they accidentally hurt or offend them.
- Respect the game: Players should play by the rules and the objectives of the game. Players should also not interfere with or disrupt the game. Players should accept the outcome of the game and congratulate the winners and the losers.
Strategies And Tactics
Laser tag is a game that involves planning, coordination, and execution. To improve your performance and your score, you can use some strategies and tactics, such as:
- Aim and shoot: You should aim and shoot accurately and quickly at your targets. You should also avoid wasting your ammo or your battery by shooting randomly or unnecessarily. You should also reload your gun or recharge your battery when needed.
- Move and hide: You should move and hide strategically and stealthily around the arena or the field. You should also avoid staying in one place or exposing yourself to the enemy. You should also use the cover and the obstacles to your advantage.
- Communicate and cooperate: You should communicate and cooperate effectively and efficiently with your team members. You should also use the signals and the codes to share information and instructions. You should also assign roles and tasks to your team members according to their strengths and weaknesses.
- Observe and adapt: You should observe and adapt to the situation and the environment. You should also analyze and anticipate the actions and the reactions of the enemy. You should also change your plan and your tactics if necessary.
How Safe Is Laser Tag?
Laser tag is a safe and harmless game, as long as you follow the rules and the precautions. Laser tag does not involve any physical contact or pain, as the laser tag guns use infrared light and not actual lasers. Infrared light is invisible and harmless to the human eye and skin, and does not cause any radiation or heat. However, laser tag can still pose some risks or hazards, such as:
- Injuries: You can get injured by tripping, falling, or bumping into the objects or the other players. You can also get injured by the laser tag equipment, such as the gun or the vest, if they are defective or damaged. You can prevent or reduce the injuries by wearing protective gear, such as helmets, goggles, gloves, or pads. You can also prevent or reduce the injuries by being careful and alert, and avoiding running, jumping, or crawling.
- Allergies: You can get allergic reactions by the materials or the substances used in the laser tag equipment, such as the plastic, the metal, or the paint. You can also get allergic reactions by the dust, the smoke, or the fog in the arena or the field. You can prevent or reduce the allergic reactions by checking the ingredients or the components of the laser tag equipment before using them. You can also prevent or reduce the allergic reactions by taking your medication or your inhaler with you.
- Illnesses: You can get sick by the germs or the viruses spread by the other players or the staff. You can also get sick by the temperature or the humidity in the arena or the field. You can prevent or reduce the illnesses by washing your hands or using sanitizer before and after the game. You can also prevent or reduce the illnesses by wearing appropriate clothing and drinking enough water.
Laser tag is a fun and exciting shooting sport that can be enjoyed by anyone. Laser tag can also provide many benefits, such as physical exercise, mental stimulation, social interaction, and entertainment. If you want to try laser tag, you can find a laser tag venue near you, or rent a mobile laser tag unit, or buy your own laser tag equipment. You can also choose from different game modes, objectives, and settings, and create your own custom game. You can also follow some strategies and tactics, and improve your skills and your score. You can also follow some rules and precautions, and ensure a safe and enjoyable game. Laser tag is a game that can make you feel like a hero, a warrior, or a star. Laser tag is a game that can make you have fun.
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