Laser Tag: Everything You Need To Know
Laser tag is an exciting and engaging recreational sport that offers a thrilling experience without the pain associated with paintball or airsoft. In this blog, we’ll cover the basics of what a laser tag game involves, its origins, the benefits of playing, and more. So, first things first, what is laser tag?
Similar to paintball or airsoft, laser tag is a recreational sport, typically played in teams, where the aim is to shoot at other players in order to knock them out of the game. It is traditionally played indoors, however, there are some venues offering outdoor laser tag now in the UK. Laser tag is completely pain-free compared to airsoft or paintball.
Read on to learn more about laser tag, where it originated, and why laser tag is a great sport to try for yourself!
What is Laser Tag?
Laser tag is a non-contact recreational sport where the aim is to shoot other players using infrared technology. Much like paintball, laser tag uses guns which are used to shoot other players. Where paintball guns shoot out small (and sometimes painful) pellets, laser tag uses infrared technology to knock other players out of the game.
Laser tag is traditionally played indoors, usually in a room complete with ramps, hiding spots, and cool neon lights. At Velocity Paintball, we’ve taken laser one step further with awesome outdoor playing fields, which is so much closer to a traditional combat experience.
How is Laser Tag Scored?
Scoring is typically done through sensors on the laser tag equipment. When a player is tagged, the sensors record the hit and add points to the opposing team’s score.
To learn more about the rules of laser tag, read our recent blog: How To Play Laser Tag – Your Ultimate Guide!
How Many People Do You Need For Laser Tag?
At a minimum, you need two people to play laser tag. However, we’d recommend a few more players, ideally a group of an even number, as it would be a very short game without many targets to shoot at! At Velocity, we can fit up to 15 players on each team.
On your own? No problem! We encourage single players to book a session, as they can simply join a team on the day.
How Big is a Laser Tag Field?
Laser tag fields can be literally any size, it all depends on the venue that you’re playing at!
Where Did Laser Tag Originate?
Laser tag had interesting beginnings all the way across the pond in Dallas, Texas. A man named George Carter III loved games like tag, but also loved Star Wars (random, right!?). So, naturally, he decided to combine tag with Star Wars-like laser guns, and laser tag was born. It is now just as popular in the UK as it is in the US!
If you’re keen to learn more about the origins of laser tag, check out this blog: The History Of Laser Tag
What Types Of Laser Tag Games Are There?
Laser tag offers a variety of game types to keep the excitement going. Here are some popular types:
- Team Deathmatch: Teams compete to score the most points by tagging/shooting opponents.
- Capture the Flag: Teams try to capture the opposing team’s flag and return it to their base, whilst trying not to get shot at!
- Free-for-All: Every player for themselves in a high-energy shootout!
- King of the Hill: Teams compete to control a designated area on the field for the longest time.
If you’d like to learn more about how to play Capture The Flag, read our helpful blog.
How Long Does a Typical Laser Tag Game Last?
A typical laser tag game lasts around 15-20 minutes, but the length can vary depending on the game mode and venue. At Velocity Paintball, sessions last all morning or all afternoon, depending on your package. Each session includes multiple action-packed laser games!
The Benefits Of Laser Tag
- Safe: Laser tag is safe for your eyes. In simple terms, the inferred technology used is in remote controls, which we use every day to change the channels on our TV. You can be sure that the equipment will not harm your eyes.
- Pain-free: Unlike normal paintball, laser tag is completely pain-free, allowing you to enjoy the thrill without any bruises.
- Accessible & Inclusive: Laser tag is a spot that doesn’t need any physical contact, so it is a great activity no matter your age, gender, or sporting abilities – it is also super fun for girls!
- Paintball Without the Bruising: If you want to tip your toe into the world of paintballing, but you’re a little worried about the marks left on you, then laser tag is a great place to start. You get the exact same experience (and game zones) without any chance of bruising.
If you’d like to learn more about paintball and airsoft, and how they compare to each other, read our helpful blog: What Hurts More, Paintball Or Airsoft?
Book Outdoor Laser Tag in Crawley
If you’re looking for an awesome outdoor laser tag venue, look no further than Velocity! Our playing ground in Crawley features unique woodland game zones, complete with obstacles, look-out spots, and so much more. Plus, you’ll receive full kit hire and a state-of-the-art laser gun free when you book with us.
To get started, visit our Booking Platform. Or, get in touch with one of our friendly team members and they can answer any questions you may have.
