When people think of laser tag, they often think of dark rooms, flashing lights and running around in a small area. Well, a couple of Canberrans are completely flipping that idea on its head, taking the game outdoors and turning it into a full-scale bushland experience.
Run by co-owners Simon Heery and Jon Yagos, First Strike Laser Tag operates regular field days at Fadden Pines Bushland, offering players the chance to run, hide and strategise across 2,400 square metres of natural terrain. Trees, scrub and open space replace narrow corridors, creating what the pair describe as a far more immersive and dynamic way to play.
“Our field days are really the heart of what we do,” Simon says. “You’re not confined to a small, dark room. You’ve got space to move, natural cover, and a completely different atmosphere.”
The idea grew out of a shared childhood love of laser tag, combined with a sense that Canberra was missing something new. Jon’s early experiments with commercial-grade laser tag equipment led to a chance meeting with Simon, a robotics engineer fascinated by how far the technology had evolved.
“Laser tag has changed massively since the 90s,” Simon says. “The gear we use works in full sunlight, has a range of up to 180 metres, and can be customised in ways most people wouldn’t expect.”
That customisation is key to the experience. Sessions are actively game-mastered, with staff adjusting gameplay on the fly to suit each group. Health levels, weapon types, sound, lights and recoil can all be tweaked, making the game accessible for younger players, older participants and those with sensory or physical needs.
“We don’t mix groups,” Jon says. “When you book an hour, it’s just your group. We usually run four or five different games, and we tailor them to what people want, whether that’s fast-paced chaos or something more tactical.”
Players can choose different weapon styles, from sniper rifles to machine guns, and even select class-based roles like medic or assault trooper. Each tagger includes recoil and reload functions, giving the game a physical, almost video game–like feel.
“We want it to feel like a real-life game,” Simon says. “It’s active, it’s social, and it gets people outdoors having fun.”
For families, kids’ parties, sports fans and anyone looking for something different, First Strike Laser Tag offers a uniquely Canberra experience, blending technology, movement and bushland into something far removed from traditional laser tag.
If you’re keen to get outside, move around a bit and have some fun with friends or family, First Strike Laser Tag is a great local option to check out. Visit firststrikelasertag.com.au for more information.
