“Griffith is under attack, buddy. You’re our only hope ...”
That is the theme running through the city’s first laser tag playing field, sprawling over two storeys at Family Funland.
Of course, that’s only part of the fun in this physical, tactical and adventurous real-life role-playing fantasy game.
Players start the game in a briefing room where they get a video rundown of the rules and to soak up the atmosphere for the game.
Family Funland has created the "Griffith under attack" theme as a way to advertise the city, in a sense.
As a place that people visit when they're in town, Family Funland is able to show them a bit of Griffith, with the layout including a miniature "Firefly" on a stick, kangaroos and goannas, Scenic Hill (which is upstairs) and even a version of Hermit's Cave.
Local technicians and artists were used to construct the laser tag playing field, which covers about 300 square metres over two levels.
Players are able to walk through the maze-like structure, shooting up and down through windows and grates.
The layout includes a lift for disabled access, with the field being big enough to manoeuvre a wheelchair. The lift is available for all players to use.
The game can take up to 28 players at a time, with marshalling at any time people are lined up to play.
The aim is to accrue points by shooting other competitors on the playing field.
Family Funland is using the Delta Strike laser tag system, which provides the phasers, vests and the software package to ensure it all runs smoothly.
As well as scramble-type games where players take on all other competitors, there is also scope to play last-man standing or team games, as well as the possibility in the future of competing leagues where players can set up profiles and build up points over time.
