How to Play Laser Tag: A Fun Guide for Beginners

Laser tag is an exhilarating, action-packed game that blends strategy, teamwork, and adrenaline. Whether you're competing against friends, family, or strangers, laser tag is one of the most thrilling ways to engage in friendly competition. But if you've never played before, you might wonder, “How exactly do you play laser tag?”

In this article, we’ll explain the rules of laser tag, offer some strategic tips, and give you all the information you need to become a laser tag pro. By the end, we’ll also highlight why Active Kidz in Long Island is the perfect spot for your next laser tag adventure.

What Is Laser Tag?

Laser tag is a game in which players use infrared-emitting devices (commonly called "taggers") to shoot sensors worn by opposing players. The goal is to hit the other players' sensors while avoiding being hit yourself. The game can be played individually, where it’s every person for themselves, or in teams, where group coordination and strategy come into play.

Games typically take place in specially designed arenas that are filled with obstacles, mazes, and barriers, all lit up with neon or LED lights to create a futuristic battlefield. Some arenas even include fog machines, ramps, and different levels to add to the excitement.

The Basic Rules of Laser Tag

Before diving into strategies, let’s cover the essential rules of laser tag. While the rules may vary slightly depending on where you play, the general structure remains consistent:

Objective: Your main goal is to tag as many opponents as possible while minimizing the number of times you are tagged. Hits are counted when a player successfully shoots their laser at an opponent's sensor, usually located on the vest or headband.
Game Length: A typical game of laser tag lasts about 10-15 minutes, depending on the venue and the game format. The short duration keeps the energy high and the action fast-paced.
Scorekeeping: Players earn points by tagging others and lose points when they are tagged. At the end of the game, individual or team scores are tallied to determine the winner.
Tagging Limitations: Some arenas allow unlimited tagging, while others may have rules that require a short time-out after you've been tagged. This time-out prevents players from being immediately re-tagged, giving them a chance to move to a safer area.
Safety: Laser tag is a non-contact sport, meaning physical contact between players is prohibited. Running is usually discouraged in the arena to prevent collisions.

Now that you know the basics, let’s dive into how you can get the upper hand when playing laser tag.

Essential Gear for Laser Tag

To play laser tag, each player is equipped with two main pieces of gear:

The Tagger (Laser Gun): This is the hand-held device that emits the infrared beam. It typically comes with a trigger, a scope for aiming, and sometimes a reload button. Some taggers allow for different settings, like rapid fire or long-range shots, depending on the game mode.
The Vest (or Headband): The vest or headband contains sensors that register when you’ve been tagged. Sensors are strategically placed on the front, back, and shoulders, so covering your body doesn’t always guarantee protection.

Key Strategies for Winning at Laser Tag

Laser tag is a game of quick reflexes, but it's also a game of strategy. Here are some essential tips to boost your chances of winning:

1. Be Sneaky and Stay Low

A great way to avoid getting tagged is by staying out of sight. Move quietly and use the arena's obstacles to your advantage. Hiding behind barriers or walls can help you remain undetected, while crouching or staying low reduces the chances of being hit.

2. Keep Moving

While staying hidden is important, staying still for too long can make you an easy target. Constant movement keeps you less predictable and harder to hit. Try to find a balance between hiding and moving, relocating to different parts of the arena every few seconds.

3. Aim for High-Accuracy Shots

When shooting, don’t just fire randomly. Aim for your opponents' sensors, especially on their backs, as they’re often less guarded. Short, controlled bursts are better than rapid, unfocused shots. Taking your time to aim will ultimately result in more points.

4. Work with Your Team

If you're playing in a team game, communication is critical. Divide roles—some players can focus on offense while others defend key areas of the arena. Try to stick with at least one teammate so that you can cover each other. You’ll increase your chances of survival and victory if you work together.

5. Take Advantage of Time-Outs

If you're tagged and have to wait a few seconds before returning to action, use this time to reposition yourself. Move quickly to a new location where opponents aren't expecting you. Surprise is one of your best assets in laser tag.

6. Stay Aware of Your Surroundings

Keep an eye on your sensor vest or headband; if it starts to light up, it means you're being targeted. React quickly—duck, hide, or return fire. Also, pay attention to sounds. Some laser tag arenas provide audio cues that can signal when someone is nearby or when you’ve been tagged.

Laser Tag Game Variations

Laser tag can come in several different formats, making each experience unique. Here are a few common game modes:

Free-for-All: Every player is on their own, and the goal is to get as many points by tagging others as possible. This mode is fast-paced and chaotic, ideal for those who love individual competition.
Team Battle: Players are divided into teams, and teamwork is essential. The goal is to outscore the other team by tagging more opponents while protecting your teammates.
Capture the Flag: In this mode, teams compete to capture the opponent’s flag and return it to their base while defending their own. It requires both offensive and defensive strategies.
Base Assault: Teams have bases to protect while trying to attack the enemy base. Points are awarded for successfully infiltrating the opposing base while keeping your own secure.

Why Choose Laser Tag at Active Kidz in Long Island?

Now that you know how to play laser tag and some useful strategies, it’s time to put your skills to the test. If you're in Long Island, look no further than Active Kidz for the ultimate laser tag experience.

Active Kidz offers an immersive laser tag arena with state-of-the-art equipment, vibrant lighting, and fog effects to transport you to a futuristic battlefield. The arena is filled with obstacles, making it perfect for players to practice stealth, teamwork, and strategic maneuvers. Whether you’re planning a fun day out with friends, a birthday party, or a corporate team-building event, Active Kidz has something for everyone.

Our laser tag games are suitable for players of all ages and skill levels, and the friendly staff will guide you through the rules and ensure a safe, exciting experience. With multiple game modes available, you can try out different styles of play, from free-for-all to team-based challenges. Plus, the high-energy environment makes it an unforgettable experience every time you play.

Book Your Laser Tag Adventure at Active Kidz Today!

Ready to experience the excitement of laser tag? Active Kidz in Long Island offers everything you need for a fun and memorable laser tag adventure. Gather your friends or family and prepare for a thrilling game that combines strategy, skill, and a whole lot of fun. Don’t miss out—book your session today!

Whether you're new to laser tag or a seasoned player, the fast-paced, action-packed world of laser tag at Active Kidz will keep you coming back for more! Call us today at (516) 621-6600 or visit our website at www.activekidzlongisland.com.

Newer Post >

Best Places to Have Kids’ Birthday Parties in New York

By Traci Small • April 7, 2025

Planning a child’s birthday party in New York can be both exciting and overwhelming. With so many options available, it’s essential to find a venue that matches your child’s interests while ensuring a stress-free experience for parents. Whether your child loves adventure, creativity, animals, or sports , there are plenty of amazing places in the NY area to host a memorable celebration. If you’re looking for a fun, interactive, and hassle-free party , Active Kidz Long Island is one of the top choices in the area. But before diving into what makes Active Kidz the perfect party venue, let’s explore other fantastic places in New York that offer unique birthday experiences for kids. Top Places to Have a Kids’ Birthday Party in New York 1. American Museum of Natural History (New York, NY) For kids who love dinosaurs, space, and science , the American Museum of Natural History offers birthday party packages that include themed activities, museum tours, and hands-on exhibits. Kids can explore the wonders of nature while celebrating their big day in an educational and fun setting. 2. Bronx Zoo (Bronx, NY) Animal lovers will love a birthday party at the Bronx Zoo . The zoo offers birthday packages where kids can meet animals up close, enjoy guided tours, and participate in wildlife-themed activities. It’s a perfect way to combine fun with an appreciation for nature. 3. New York Hall of Science (Queens, NY) For future scientists and inventors, the New York Hall of Science provides interactive, STEM-focused birthday parties. Kids can build robots, conduct cool science experiments, and explore the museum’s engaging exhibits. 4. Brooklyn Children’s Museum (Brooklyn, NY) A fantastic spot for younger kids, the Brooklyn Children’s Museum offers hands-on play, interactive exhibits, and private birthday party rooms with different themes, making it a great place for an engaging and educational celebration. 5. Central Park (Manhattan, NY) For those who prefer an outdoor celebration , Central Park offers endless possibilities, from picnic parties to scavenger hunts, playground fun, and even hiring entertainers for a personalized experience. Keep in mind that outdoor parties may require a permit and are weather-dependent. Now that we’ve explored some of the best birthday party venues in NYC, let’s talk about one of the most exciting places on Long Island for active, adventure-loving kids—Active Kidz Long Island! Why Active Kidz Long Island is the Ultimate Birthday Party Destination If you’re looking for high-energy, action-packed birthday fun , Active Kidz Long Island is the best place for kids’ parties in the area. Located in Jericho, NY , it offers a variety of thrilling attractions that kids love, along with all-inclusive party packages that make planning a breeze. 1. Interactive Laser Tag Arena One of the biggest highlights at Active Kidz is their multi-level laser tag arena . With glowing obstacles, high-tech laser gear, and team-based challenges, kids get to enjoy an exciting, action-packed adventure. Whether they’re teaming up or playing solo, laser tag guarantees non-stop fun! 2. Obstacle Course & Ninja Challenge For kids who love physical activity, the Interactive Obstacle Course provides a thrilling challenge. Kids can climb, jump, and race through a fun-filled course designed to test agility, speed, and coordination. 3. Indoor Climbing Wall If your child loves adventure, the indoor rock climbing wall is perfect for them! They can test their climbing skills in a safe and supervised environment, building confidence while having a blast. 4. Arcade & Virtual Games After an active session of laser tag and climbing, kids can unwind in the arcade area , which features a mix of classic and modern games that add an extra layer of excitement to the party. 5. Soft Play Area for Younger Kids For younger party guests, Active Kidz offers a safe and engaging soft play area , ensuring that even toddlers have a fantastic time at the celebration. 6. Stress-Free Birthday Party Packages Active Kidz takes the hassle out of party planning by offering all-inclusive party packages that include: ✔ Private party room for your guests ✔ Dedicated party host to manage the event ✔ Food and drinks (pizza, snacks, and beverages) ✔ Choice of activities based on your child’s interests ✔ Set-up and clean-up services so parents can relax and enjoy the day With a professional staff handling everything, parents can sit back and enjoy the celebration stress-free. Why Choose Active Kidz Over Hosting a Party at Home? While some parents choose to host birthday parties at home or at a park , booking an indoor venue like Active Kidz has several advantages: 1. Weather-Proof Fun New York’s unpredictable weather can make outdoor parties risky. Active Kidz provides a climate-controlled environment , ensuring the party is a success regardless of the season. 2. No Mess or Cleanup Hosting a party at home means setting up decorations, planning activities, and cleaning up afterward . At Active Kidz , all of this is handled by the staff, making it a completely hassle-free experience. 3. Safe & Supervised Activities Unlike home parties where parents must manage everything, Active Kidz provides a trained staff to supervise all activities , ensuring a safe and fun experience for all guests. 4. Unique Attractions Most home parties don’t have a laser tag arena, obstacle course, climbing wall, or arcade games —but at Active Kidz, kids get access to these thrilling activities in one place! Book Your Child’s Birthday Party at Active Kidz Long Island Today! If you’re looking for an exciting, stress-free, and unforgettable birthday party experience for your child, Active Kidz Long Island is the ultimate choice. With interactive laser tag, climbing adventures, arcade games, obstacle courses, and dedicated party hosts , it’s the perfect venue for kids who love action-packed fun. 🎉 Why Choose Active Kidz? ✅ Exciting activities like laser tag, climbing walls, and arcade games ✅ Private party rooms and all-inclusive packages ✅ Safe, supervised, and weather-proof fun ✅ Stress-free setup and cleanup —just show up and enjoy! 📍 Location: 200 Robbins Lane, Jericho, NY 📞 Call to Book: (516) 621-6600 🌐 Visit: www.activekidzlongisland.com Don’t wait— reserve your child’s dream party today! 🎈🎂

When Was Laser Tag Invented? A Look at Its History and Evolution

By Traci Small • February 28, 2025

Laser tag is a thrilling game enjoyed by kids and adults alike, offering a fun, action-packed experience that blends strategy, teamwork, and high-tech equipment. But have you ever wondered when laser tag was invented and how it became the exciting game we know today? From its origins as a military training tool to becoming a popular recreational activity, laser tag has come a long way. In this article, we’ll explore the history of laser tag , how it evolved into a mainstream game, and why it remains a top choice for birthday parties and group events—especially at Active Kidz Long Island ! The Origins of Laser Tag The concept of laser-based combat dates back to the 1970s , when the technology was first used for military training exercises. The U.S. Army developed a system called MILES (Multiple Integrated Laser Engagement System) to simulate battle conditions without using live ammunition. Soldiers wore special sensors that detected infrared beams from training weapons, allowing them to practice combat strategies safely. While this technology was primarily used for training, it planted the seeds for laser tag as a recreational game . The Birth of Recreational Laser Tag (1980s) The first commercially available laser tag game was created in 1984 by George Carter III, an innovator inspired by the futuristic battle scenes in Star Wars . Carter envisioned a game where players could engage in safe, futuristic combat using laser-based equipment, and he developed the world’s first laser tag system. Photon: The First Laser Tag Game Carter launched Photon , the first official laser tag arena, in Dallas, Texas, in 1984 . Photon featured infrared-emitting guns and sensor-equipped vests , allowing players to tag each other in a competitive, team-based format. Photon arenas quickly spread across the U.S., igniting the laser tag craze. The game combined elements of arcade-style gaming, sports, and teamwork , making it a hit among kids, teens, and adults . The Expansion of Laser Tag in the 1990s and 2000s As technology advanced, laser tag systems became more sophisticated and widely available . Companies began producing portable laser tag sets, allowing people to play at home or outdoors. New arenas with multi-level designs, fog effects, and blacklight environments created a more immersive experience. Laser tag evolved into a mainstream activity , becoming a popular choice for birthday parties, corporate events, and competitive leagues . Today, modern laser tag arenas, like the one at Active Kidz Long Island , offer cutting-edge gameplay with advanced technology, interactive maps, and thrilling game modes. Why Laser Tag Remains Popular Today Laser tag has remained a favorite activity for decades because it offers: ✔ Exciting and Safe Gameplay – Unlike paintball, laser tag doesn’t involve physical projectiles, making it pain-free and safe for all ages . ✔ Strategy and Teamwork – Players work together, developing communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills . ✔ A High-Tech Experience – Modern laser tag systems feature LED lighting, sound effects, and real-time scoring for an immersive experience. ✔ A Fun Fitness Activity – Running, dodging, and hiding during a game provides great physical exercise while having fun. Experience the Best Laser Tag at Active Kidz Long Island If you want to experience laser tag at its best , Active Kidz Long Island offers one of the most advanced and exciting laser tag arenas in the New York area! Why Play Laser Tag at Active Kidz? 🔥 State-of-the-Art Multi-Level Arena – Active Kidz features a blacklight, sci-fi-inspired laser tag arena with glowing obstacles and hiding spots for a thrilling battle experience. 🔫 High-Tech Laser Tag Equipment – Players use top-of-the-line laser blasters and wear sensor vests for accurate, immersive gameplay. 🎯 Fun Game Modes – Play team battles, free-for-all matches, and strategic missions designed to keep players engaged and challenged. 🎉 Perfect for Birthday Parties & Group Events – Whether it’s a birthday party, school trip, or corporate event , Active Kidz offers laser tag party packages that include a private party room, food, and a dedicated party host . 🏆 Great for All Ages – Laser tag at Active Kidz is suitable for kids, teens, and even adults , making it a fantastic family-friendly activity! Book Your Laser Tag Party at Active Kidz Long Island! Whether you're looking for an unforgettable birthday party or just a fun day out, Active Kidz Long Island is the ultimate destination for laser tag and other exciting activities. 📍 Location: 200 Robbins Lane, Jericho, NY 📞 Call to Book: (516) 621-6600 🌐 Visit: www.activekidzlongisland.com Don’t miss out— reserve your laser tag experience today and step into the action!

Birthday Party Games for Kids: Fun Ideas for an Unforgettable Celebration

February 12, 2025

Discover the best birthday party games for kids at Active Kidz Long Island! From exciting laser tag to interactive arcade fun, we have activities for all ages. Plan your party today!

ALL ARTICLES

Article