If you’ve only experienced one style of laser tag — everyone running around trying to shoot everyone else — you’ve seen maybe a tenth of what the game can actually be. Modern laser tag arenas like Lazer Runner in Aurora offer multiple distinct game modes, each of which changes the strategy, the team dynamics, and the feel of the game entirely. Understanding the modes before you arrive means your group can choose the right game for your mix of ages and experience levels — and have a much better time because of it.
The difference between game modes isn’t just cosmetic. Different modes reward completely different skills: some reward aggression and quick reflexes, others reward patience and positioning, and some require genuine teamwork and communication. For families with a mix of ages and ability levels, choosing the right mode can mean the difference between an experience that’s fun for everyone and one where the most experienced player dominates and everyone else feels irrelevant.
Lazer Runner offers seven game modes in total, with options to customise up to three vest colours, adjustable shots and lives, time settings, and handicaps. Here’s a guide to each one.
The most straightforward mode: every player for themselves. Tag anyone, avoid being tagged by anyone. Points go to each individual based on tags made and hits taken. This is the ideal starting point for first-timers because the rules are immediately intuitive — there’s no team to coordinate with and no special objectives to track. It’s also good for groups where everyone already knows each other well and friendly competition is the goal.
Best for: First-time players, mixed groups, smaller sessions
Players are divided into teams (up to three different vest colours), and the team with the most collective tags at the end wins. This is the most popular mode for birthday parties and groups, because it instantly creates a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose. Kids who might be hesitant in an individual game often thrive in Team Play because the pressure is distributed across the group.
Best for: Birthday parties, school groups, any occasion where you want the group to work together
A more strategic version of team play with a capture objective layered on top of the standard tagging. Teams must not only tag opponents but achieve a specific mission-based goal. This mode is best for groups where at least some players have previous laser tag experience and can understand and execute a plan.
Best for: Return visitors, tweens and teens who enjoy strategy games
One of the most dramatic and exciting modes for kids. In Vampire Game, players tagged by a “vampire” lose lives — or in some variations, switch allegiance. The snowball effect of the vampire player gaining power as the game progresses creates a shift in game dynamics mid-session that generates genuine excitement and some satisfying chaos. Kids who love the narrative element of role-playing games often gravitate to this one immediately.
Best for: Groups aged 8 and up who enjoy a dramatic twist, second or third game of the session
Based on the classic playground game of tag, but with laser phasers. One player is “it” and must tag others to pass on the designation. It’s fast, hectic, and laugh-out-loud fun for younger players especially. The constantly shifting focus of who is chasing whom keeps the energy high throughout the entire session.
Best for: Younger players aged 6–9, energetic mixed-age groups
Players start with a set number of lives and are eliminated when they run out. Last player (or team) standing wins. Eliminator raises the stakes significantly — every hit matters more when you can’t respawn indefinitely. It tends to produce more cautious, deliberate play than other modes, with players using cover and moving strategically rather than sprinting around the arena.
Best for: Competitive teens, experienced groups, players who enjoy a higher-stakes format
Switcher is perhaps the most social and unpredictable mode. When tagged, players switch teams — which means alliances shift constantly throughout the game. This creates a delightful chaos: you might spend the first five minutes on the red team, get tagged, and spend the next five minutes on the blue team tagging your former teammates. It’s confusing in the best possible way and generates a lot of laughter.
Best for: Groups that want something wildly unpredictable, mixed groups where you don’t want any fixed team dominating
If your group has first-timers, start with Individual Play or Team Play to get everyone comfortable with the vests and phasers. For a second game, try Vampire Game or Switcher — they reward experience but remain accessible to newcomers. Save Eliminator and Team Capture for groups where everyone is playing seriously and wants a real challenge.
The staff at Lazer Runner are always happy to suggest a game mode based on your group’s size, ages, and experience level — just ask when you arrive.
The only real way to understand these modes is to play them. Walk-in pricing at Lazer Runner starts at $10 per person for a single 20-minute game, or $18 for a double game — enough time to try two different modes in one visit. The arena is located at 2 Allaura Blvd, Unit 10 in Aurora, open Tuesday through Sunday.
Check walk-in availability and plan your visit — seven game modes are waiting, and you haven’t tried most of them yet.
Reserve a private party online, or check live walk-in availability. Questions? Call 647.500.8512.
