Games

iTager enables long-distance, open-air, mega-scale laser tag

iTager enables long-distance, open-air, mega-scale laser tag
Imagine laser tag with a million players – with iTager, it's theoretically possible
Imagine laser tag with a million players – with iTager, it's theoretically possible
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The iTager system's small size and wireless design allows for maximum mobility
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The iTager system's small size and wireless design allows for maximum mobility
The iTager hit sensor
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The iTager hit sensor
iTager is designed to work in all weather conditions, including snow
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iTager is designed to work in all weather conditions, including snow
There'll be plenty of sniping opportunities over 2,500 feet
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There'll be plenty of sniping opportunities over 2,500 feet
A boy tests out one of the iTager prototypes
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A boy tests out one of the iTager prototypes
Laser tag is so much cooler outdoors
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Laser tag is so much cooler outdoors
iTager's software lets you track statistics in real time
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iTager's software lets you track statistics in real time
Sketches of the iTager system
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Sketches of the iTager system
More sketches of the iTager system, this time showing the internals
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More sketches of the iTager system, this time showing the internals
iTager doesn't need to be mounted on a gun; it works just fine attached to your hand and wrist
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iTager doesn't need to be mounted on a gun; it works just fine attached to your hand and wrist
Or to a bicycle
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Or to a bicycle
iTager on someone's hand
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iTager on someone's hand
An example of how iTager can be mounted onto an existing laser tag gun
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An example of how iTager can be mounted onto an existing laser tag gun
The MP-514k rifle being offered as part of the "internal" iTager system
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The MP-514k rifle being offered as part of the "internal" iTager system
The MP-514k rifle being offered as part of the "internal" iTager system
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The MP-514k rifle being offered as part of the "internal" iTager system
The MP-514k rifle being offered as part of the "internal" iTager system
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The MP-514k rifle being offered as part of the "internal" iTager system
Imagine laser tag with a million players – with iTager, it's theoretically possible
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Imagine laser tag with a million players – with iTager, it's theoretically possible
All-terrain laser tag amongst abandoned Russian buildings looks amazing
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All-terrain laser tag amongst abandoned Russian buildings looks amazing
View gallery - 18 images

Imagine laser tag with a million players all on the one battlefield. It's ridiculous to even think about, but the creators of iTager claim that their system makes it possible. It's a ground-up reimagining and re-engineering of laser tag replete with fully-wireless, remote-controllable systems that work in all weather conditions over a whopping 2,500 ft (760 m) and that can easily be mounted onto existing laser tag weapons (or even your hand or a bicycle) or purchased preinstalled on rifles the creators made themselves.

"During the last five years we have been collecting, improving, and experimenting with the commercial [laser tag] equipment and learning their weak points," says lead developer Alexander Palamarchuk. They sought to overcome these constraints in areas such as range, accuracy, reliability, and damage resistance, and have now assembled five working prototypes that have been successfully tested outdoors in the team's native Russia.

A boy tests out one of the iTager prototypes
A boy tests out one of the iTager prototypes

Unlike the standard systems used at typical laser tag arenas, iTager cuts the cable between weapon and hit sensor so that you can move with absolute freedom. Settings can be changed remotely, too, via the integrated Wi-Fi and MESH networks, for either individual players or the entire team. Its 2,100 mAh lithium-ion batteries allow for up to 50 hours of play time – more than enough for even the most epic of laser tag battles.

Sounds pretty cool, right? Between this and the likes of Skirmos, IRLShooter, and Zero Latency, live-action shooting battle arenas are getting insanely-ambitious in all the right ways.

The shooting itself isn't as sophisticated as IRLShooter, though. Players have just one damage point to aim at or protect, as the hit sensor wraps around the head like a headband. On a more positive note, sound effects through a loudspeaker built into the iTager system can be augmented by headsets for team chat. The system also has capacity for video streaming, but in order to reduce cost there's no integrated camera.

An example of how iTager can be mounted onto an existing laser tag gun
An example of how iTager can be mounted onto an existing laser tag gun

The computer or smartphone running the show can track player positions via GPS as well as receiving a real-time stream of scoring data. And there are 10 game modes to choose from, including domination, VIP escort, and stalker.

ITager is currently on Kickstarter, seeking US$30,000 in pledges to fund a production run and additional testing and enhancements. A basic DIY set of the hit sensor and the system on a motherboard will set you back US$120, while the rifle/sensor combo starts at $360 and a 10-piece set of hit sensors and rifles costs US$3,450. If successful, the iTager team expects to ship in April.

You can see the iTager system in action in the Kickstarter pitch video below.

Sources: iTager blog

View gallery - 18 images
2 comments
2 comments
Bill Bennett
No eye protection? What nm do these lasers operate at? I have a 445nm laser that will blind you permanently in a blink of an eye.
Александр Паламарчук
Laser - a nominal title. In fact, this highly directional infrared radiation. Absolutely safe. Each rifle attached safety certificates.