What is Mobile Laser Tag?

Mobile Laser Tag (also sometimes called Laser Skirmish or Outdoor Laser Tag) is a fairly new concept which uses infrared light, similar to a television remote control unit, and small sensors to create a game which plays like paintball but without the pain, bruises and mess. It is quickly becoming one of the most popular live action role player (LARP) games on the market, and for good reason.

Many folks have played traditional indoor laser tag, which uses a complex system of wearable "armor" to collect data of hits and location. On the other end of the spectrum is paintball which uses no sensors to determine hits, but instead relies on the player actually being hit by a ball of paint which bursts upon impact leaving a mark, and often a nasty bruise or welt (which for many is part of the fun), on the tagged player.

Mobile Laser Tag utilizes some of the technology of traditional indoor laser tag, but incorporates the gameplay of paintball. Players have a laser gun which is equipped with a powerful infrared emitter, scopes for aiming, and sensors for detecting hits. The player does not need to wear any special gear or clothing. The guns can be configured for players to various "hit points" and rounds of "ammunition". When a player is "hit", their sensor triggers a sound on the gun which alerts the player and shooter that a shot has found it's mark. A screen on the gun tells the player how hit them, or whom they hit. The hit player then loses one of their "lives" and cannot shoot or be hit again for a brief period while they find cover to hide behind. Depending on the game being played, when a player loses all their lives or runs out of ammo, they are either out of the game, or they may be able to go to a designated location and be "respawned" back in to the game.

Various games and scenarios can be played for different types of gameplay. Games can be designed for faster action or more slower strategic missions.