Laser tag is a game of skill and precision. In laser tag, the goal is to hit another person's targets (strategically placed on their body) with your laser (infrared light). Most often, guns are used to shoot at someone's vest. When shot in certain places, the shooter will gain points. Occasionally (in large games), there are teams. Each team will have a 'base'. When players of opposite teams hit the base with their laser, that team is shut down for a period of time. When the vest is hit, it disables the gun from shooting for a period of time, allowing one to still be shot.

History

The US army was the first to use a series of laser combat training guns. These guns work the same as normal laser tag guns. It was referred to as the 'MILES' system, and allowed intense training abilities in the army. Some combat training is still used today. A man by the name of Carter invented the first arena-type laser game. He surprisingly thought of the idea after watching the film 'Star Wars'. In 1986, Laser tag was revealed as an at home game. Laser tag toys were being purchased more than any other game or toy at the time. The toys are continued to be made, and beloved by children around the world. Arena games are popular among adults, as well as children, and are played for recreation.

Equipment And Arenas

There are both indoor, and outdoor equipment for laser tag. When played indoor at an arena, the laser is visible through the use of fog. A series of vests, and guns are assigned to all of the players in order to experience the entirety of the game play. In order for an indoor arena of laser tag to properly work, one must understand the necessary materials. A large area is required with many things to hide behind. A smoke machine, and black lights are also necessary. Scoring devices are also required to be in the arena. On the other hand, an outdoor arena needs higher powered laser guns and targeting devices.

One of the newest Laser tag systems is the 'Lawn Warfare: Light Strike'. These guns are available for purchase in three different types; the add-on accessories, and customizable features make this a highly desired gun. This gun is mostly used for personal use at home. The proper set up is necessary for both indoor and outdoor areas. Black lights, as well as smoke machines are not necessary for outdoor game play. Basic guns, and vests are required for any type of laser tag game play. There are places of business solely for the adventure of laser game play. Many paintball fields also have laser tag for the younger players that are unable to paintball. For a small fee, players are allowed to play laser tag in an upbeat environment.

The latest generation of laser tag guns is the Light Strike series from Wowwee. The Light Strike guns have many new features that regular laser tag does not. Each of the 6 different guns have 4-6 different ammo types built in depending on if it's a pistol or rifle. Each gun has a health meter built in that shows your health and once your health runs out you have to "respawn" by pressing two buttons simultaneously.

Each ammo type has a unique fire sound, reload sound and fire/reload time. There is a shield button that lasts for 15 seconds and reduces incoming shots by 50% damage which can be used once every 2-3 minutes. Every Light Strike gun has a volume button and headphone jack allowing players to get sneaky because when the headphones are plugged in the external speaker on the gun goes silent.

Each gun can be on one of 4 possible teams and is determined by the color selection on the gun. Also, there is fire mode button that allows for single shot or 3 round burst mode. A Special target allows for unique game types like capture the flag and more.

Laser tag is a unique experience filled with thrills, strategy, and suspense. Certain skill is acquired upon the continuous game play, and new guns are always coming to the laser tag world.