The action-packed adventure of laser tag we all know and love puts us as the hero in our own sci-fi movie. But where did all this laser technology begin, and how did we go from military training to the arena-based game we play today?
This article dives into the exciting history of laser tag, and how it evolved from early tech experiments to high-energy arenas, tournaments, and futuristic game-playing experiences. Ready to dive into the history of laser tag? Gear up and let’s go.
Where Laser Guns Really Started
The concept of laser guns, and laser tag, has been around since the late 1970s when the U.S. Army developed the Multiple Integrated Laser Engagement System (MILES).
The system was designed to mimic direct-fire, force-on-force training at different combat training centers. Soldiers could practice their techniques and firing accuracy without any real-life consequences.
The system was just like what you see today in modern laser tag. The guns had laser transmitters that fired and hit receivers. It was this initial technology that helped George Carter III develop his own version of the game.
Where Was Laser Tag Invented?
The modern game of laser tag we all know today started to take shape thanks to the latest sci-fi movies being released at the time. To accompany the movie Star Trek: The Motion Picture, toy company South Bend Electronics decided to release the Star Trek Electronic Phaser Gun. The futuristic blasters let fans fire invisible beams at each other for fun.
The actual game wasn’t invented yet as people just enjoyed firing at each other for fun without any fun obstacles or cool arenas to play inside.
It wasn’t until a savvy businessman took the idea, and innovated it to the game we recognize and play today.
Building the First Laser Tag Arena
In 1982, George Carter III, inspired by the Star Wars movie battles he had seen in 1977, set out to create something bigger with the laser guns than just playing around and having fun.
He was the first to conceptualize a competitive, arena-based laser tag experience that would change history forever.
Instead of simple toys, he developed a system that scored hits using infrared technology, and made it an interactive game everyone could enjoy.
His vision ultimately came to life in 1984, when the first official laser tag arena opened in Dallas, Texas. The first Photon Center was a huge hit, and cemented Carter’s legacy forever.
In 2005, Carter was honored by the International Laser Tag Association for his contribution as the inventor and founder of the laser tag industry.
How Laser Tag Works
While laser tag might feel like a battle straight out of the future, the way it works is pretty simple to understand.
It might be surprising to hear, but laser tag doesn’t actually use real lasers. That’s because lasers are dangerous and can hurt people if they make actual contact. Instead, the guns used in the games fire infrared beams, kind of like a TV remote.
The lasers are picked up and tracked by a player’s vest or headband receiver. When you score a hit, the system tracks the player it hit, and whose gun the laser came from. All the technology helps build a game where you can see who is out of the game, who scored the most points, and which team won the game.
Laser Tag Becomes Mainstream
The initial technology of laser tag was new and caused people to want to try it for the first time. Once the initial novelty wore off, the popularity of laser tag started to dwindle. The original companies like Photon and Worlds of Wonder went out of business in the late 80s.
Laser tag didn’t stay down for long, though. By the 1990s, the game saw a huge resurgence as new arenas started popping off all over the world. The technology improved, and made the game even more immersive and competitive.
Laser tag became a staple in arcades, family entertainment centers, and even standalone arenas. There are different types of game modes, like free-for-all, capture the flag, and domination. Some arenas even have zombie survival games, or battle royale to keep the action fresh and exciting.
Competitive Laser Tag
You and your friends might enjoy a quick laser tag game as a fun weekend activity, but many people have taken the competition to a new level. The popularity of the game has turned it into a real sport, with dedicated players forming leagues, teams, and even professional laser tag communities.
This has all led to the creation of the Laser Tag Association, which helps organize events, set rules, and connect players all around the world. Some of the bigger competitions have huge cash prizes, trophies, and other fun prizes.
Teams at the competitive level aren’t just playing for fun. They are developing techniques, and strategies for movement, positioning, and coordinated attacks to outlast and outplay their opponents.
The Future of Laser Tag Games
Laser tag is only growing thanks to the competitive games, and cutting-edge technology that keeps coming out year after year. Advancements in virtual reality allow players to wear headsets, and play in digital battlefields without ever leaving their homes.
Augmented Reality is another fun integration that lets digital elements appear in the real world, using smart glasses or mobile devices. Now, players can get power-ups, tackle hidden enemies, or deal with changing environments to keep the game fresh and unpredictable.
Some arenas are even starting to use interactive walls, floors, and other obstacles that create a dynamic battlefield worthy of any competitor.
Experience Laser Tag at Monster Mini Golf
Step into the laser tag battle action yourself at Monster Mini Golf, where you’re completely immersed in a fun environment. While most facilities focus on a sports-themed arena, ours is unique and lets you play in a monster-themed facility, complete with full decorations on every corner for your next birthday party venue, or fun weekend.
Glowing backlights, swirling fog, and eerie chandeliers make the game feel different than any other laser tag game you’ve played so far.
You can also take on the laser maze challenge where you’ll duck, dive, and dodge your way through a web of lasers to reach the ultimate destination. It’s a test of your speed, strategy, and ability as you test to see if you make it through without touching a single laser.