An Absolute Blast! Not Your Average Laser Tag
We visited Battle House Laser Tag in Lake Barrington for a 2-hour session midday this past Saturday with the family, and it completely blew our expectations out of the…
An Absolute Blast! Not Your Average Laser Tag
We visited Battle House Laser Tag in Lake Barrington for a 2-hour session midday this past Saturday with the family, and it completely blew our expectations out of the water! If you are picturing the neon-lit, blacklight "kiddy" laser tag from the 90s, think again. This is a full-blown tactical, real-life video game experience.
The Arena & Vibe
The facility is massive—an indoor arena right around 15,000 square feet. It is built like a movie set or a first-person shooter map, complete with eight two-story buildings, alleys, and plenty of places to take cover. Because we went on a Saturday afternoon, it was pretty busy with a mix of birthday parties and walk-ins, but the arena is so large that it never felt unmanageably crowded.
Gameplay & Equipment
Instead of a simple "free-for-all," the games are structured around specific 15 to 25-minute missions. Over our 2-hour block, we played awesome scenarios like Capture the Flag, Search and Destroy, and VIP Escort.
The gear itself is top-notch. You are outfitted with head sensors and realistic-feeling taggers. A nice bonus for parents: the equipment uses safe, invisible infrared light (just like a TV remote), so there are no actual lasers to worry about with your eyes.
The Staff
The staff (they call them Field Marshals) were fantastic. They effectively managed a chaotic Saturday afternoon crowd, clearly explained the "Rules of Engagement," and made sure the teams were split evenly so the games stayed competitive and fun. They were especially great at keeping the younger kids engaged while letting the teens and adults go all out.
A Few Pro-Tips for Families:
Book in Advance: Saturday midday is prime time. We highly recommend booking your tickets online beforehand to secure your spot.
Dress for a Workout: You will be running, crouching, and sweating. Wear lightweight athletic clothing and comfortable closed-toe shoes.
Bring Water: You get quick breaks between missions, and you will definitely want to stay hydrated.
Age Limits: It is generally geared toward ages 8 and up. 6 and 7-year-olds can play, but they must be accompanied by a paying adult on the field.
Location: It can be slightly tricky to find the first time. It is located on Northpointe Parkway, all the way around the back of the RecPlex building near the pond.
Overall, our family had an incredible time. It requires actual teamwork, communication, and strategy—making it a fantastic bonding experience. We will absolutely be back!
