How To Win at Laser Tag: 10 Tactics For Success

If it’s your first time playing laser tag, or you’re looking for tips to take your gameplay to the next level, our experts are here to help. So, how do you win at laser tag?

To play laser tag like a pro, follow these 10 top tips:

• Choose the right kit
• Know the arena
• Learn the rules 
• Move strategically
• Learn how to aim in laser tag
• Master the crouch and shoot
• Control key zones
• Target weak players first
• Stay calm under pressure
• Most importantly, have fun!

Read on for advice on how to be the best at laser tag, how to aim (even under pressure), and advice on controlling the arena. 

How To Play Laser Tag Like a Pro

Laser tag isn’t just about fast reflexes and random shooting — strategy, teamwork, and skill are all key to dominating the game. Whether you’re a first-time player or a laser tag veteran, these 10 expert tips will give you the edge over your opponents and help you play like a pro.

1. Choose the Right Kit

Whilst the type of arena you’re playing at (either indoor or outdoor) will determine how many layers you’ll put on, the principles of choosing the right kit still applies. 

• Wear colours that will help you blend in: opt for black or navy clothes if you’re playing inside, or camo/brown shades to blend in outdoors.
• Avoid white: wearing white will mean you stick out like a sore thumb – no matter the arena! Plus, you risk getting muddy if you accidentally take a tumble.
• Sports shoes are best: choose comfortable trainers that are easy to run around in. Avoid heels (sorry ladies!), sandals, or flip-flops if you want to stay on your feet.

Learn more about the best kit to wear under your laser tag gear in our helpful blog: Paintball – What Should You Wear?

2. Know the Arena

Mastering the layout will give you a big advantage, allowing you to predict your opponent’s moves and avoid being caught off guard. Your game strategy will change in close-quarters battle (CQB) than it will do in an outdoor arena. Tight spaces, corners, and obstacles demand quicker reflexes and closer team coordination. On the other hand, open environments allow for longer sightlines and more flexibility with positioning.

If you’re playing a game like Capture the Flag, it’s important to know of any possible hiding spots before the game starts. Take a moment to walk through the field and note strategic positions such as cover points and vantage spots. Understanding where you and your opponents can move, hide, or ambush will give you a critical advantage during the game.

3. Learn the Rules

Make sure you’re familiar with all the rules of the game before you start playing. A simple mistake could lead to disqualification, costing your team a win. Whilst we can explain the basic rules of laser tag, they may change depending on the type of laser game being played, and the arena in which you are playing. 

In a nutshell, though, your aim is to ‘tag’ as many opponents as you can in the limited time slot by hitting their sensors with your laser gun. You earn points for each successful hit. However, if you get hit yourself, you may lose points or be out of the game. The team/player with the most points by the end of the session wins!

If you still aren’t familiar with the rules of laser tag, we have plenty of blogs to help you. Check out How To Play Laser Tag – Your Ultimate Guide, and our blog on How To Play Capture the Flag.

4. Move Strategically

Standing still makes you an easy target, but running around the arena comes with its own risks. Your goal should be to constantly move from cover to cover, making it harder for opponents to lock onto your sensors, but by following a few of our top tips:

• Zigzag: Instead of running in straight lines, which makes you predictable, zigzag to throw off your opponents’ aim.
• Side-on stance: When pausing to take a shot, try standing sideways. This reduces the area your sensors (usually on your chest or back) can be hit, making you harder to tag.
• Use cover: Stay close to obstacles to minimise exposure while moving between locations. If you can, always have a wall/obstacle behind you to reduce the chances of a surprise attack.

5. Aiming in Laser Tag

Learning how to aim in laser tag is easier said than done – it’s not like paintball where the whole body is the target! Laser tag requires precise aiming. 

To improve your aim, follow these tips:

• Focus on your opponent’s sensors: Aim for areas like the chest, back, and shoulders to score points.
• Hold your laser steady: Keep your hands firm and your focus sharp to increase accuracy
• If you can, get up high: Having the high ground makes it easier to spot and shoot your unknowing opponents, and offers some protection if they try to shoot back!

6. Master the Crouch and Shoot

Crouching can give you a distinct advantage. Most players aim at chest level whilst standing up, so crouching or kneeling while shooting can make you a harder target to hit, as you’re naturally a smaller target. Fire from low positions to stay under the radar while still being able to hit opponents. Of course, don’t let crouching stop you from aiming well!

7. Control Key Zones

Most laser tag arenas have key areas like elevated platforms or control zones. Securing these spots can give you a significant tactical advantage, especially if they offer better lines of sight and plenty of spots to hide behind.

If you’re playing a game like Capture the Flag, station a few of your strongest defensive players around the flag, to ensure it remains well-protected against your opponents, while the rest of your team pushes forward!

8. Target Weak Players First

Sudden-death games are intense – so you have to be strategic in order to win. It might sound cut-throat to eliminate weaker players first, but it’s a great chance to rack up points for you and your team, whilst thinning out the opposition quickly. Then, towards the end of the game, you can shift your strategy to bring down the more experienced players, securing your victory…

If your laser arena plays with unlimited respawns, then ignore this rule! Instead, you should focus on strategy and control of key areas rather than specific eliminations.

9. Stay Calm Under Pressure 

Laser tag can be intense, but keeping your cool is key. Staying calm is critical to keep your aim steady and your movements strategic. If you’re physically exhausted, or experiencing some nerves, you might experience some hand trembling, which will impact your aiming ability.

If you’re feeling shaky, take deep breaths and remind yourself to focus on the game plan. Calm players are often more effective shooters and better decision-makers!

10. Have a Blast!

No pun intended… At the end of the day, laser tag is all about having fun with your friends. Whether you’re playing to win or just blowing off steam, enjoy the game, and don’t forget to celebrate your victories with a pint (or a J2O) at the pub afterwards!

Thrilling Laser Tag Games At Velocity Paintball

By mastering these laser tag tactics, you’ll not only improve your game but also have a much better time on the field. Whether you’re a competitive player aiming for victory or just out to have fun with friends, these tips will help you become a force to be reckoned with!

Now – time to put these tips into practice. Book a laser tag session with Velocity Paintball for an epic outdoor arena and a semi-automatic laser blaster with unlimited ammo! 

To book a laser tag party in Crawley, get in touch with our team to discuss your requirements and see how we can make the day extra special! Our laser tag games are available to children (and adults!) from 7 years old.