First, the most asked question is - Can the laser harm your eyes, or do you need to wear eye protection?

To both questions, the answer is ........NO!

The 'Phasors' are actually a dual-mode device. Once the trigger is activated, the Phasor performs two separate functions. The first is to emit an invisible beam that 'deactivates' other players and base stations, or 'outposts'. When targeted, these devises record the 'hit' as to which player caused the deactivation. This is how the Vests and Outposts interact in the game to create a point scoring system. This 'beam' is the same as the one emitted by your TV remote control. Although you cannot see it, you are sending information to a receptor in the TV, and in no way harming either yourself or anyone else around it. Secondly, the 'Phasor' has a second function, and that is to send out a beam of light that enables the user to see where his Phasor blast goes, and also to show the enemy that he is being targeted. The beam of light you see is enhanced by the use of Fog. By using a fog, you can see the beam of red light for a great distance. The beam of light emitted by the 'Phasor' is actually a concentrated light created by an 'LED' (light emitting diode), to create a laser effect. The beam of light is not intensive enough to harm the eye. The Phasors are designated a "Class IIa" laser product as compared to Laser levellers used by builders and contractors that are designated a "Class IIIa" laser product. The following is an extract from ANSI (American National Standards Institute):        

Class 2 Laser (Low Power)

A Class 2 laser emits light in the visible portion of the spectrum (400-700 nanometers), and eye protection is normally afforded by the normal human aversion response to bright radiant sources. It may present some potential for hazard if viewed directly for extended periods of time. (Our Phasors emit IR for less that one second)

The second most frequently asked question is, Can my kid get hurt?

This is one of the easiest ones to answer. We have very strict guidelines on the playing format. There is a briefing set out before every game outlining the rules and conduct demanded during every game. First, NO PHYSICAL CONTACT! No player is allowed to touch another player during the game. You are not allowed to block or impede any other player. Next, NO RUNNING! The Maze is a vast area of corridors, turns, dead-ends, as well as loud music, spinning lights, black lights, fog and other sensory enhancing effects. You will have a far greater appreciation of the game if you play with 'stealth' rather than speed. Next, NO CLIMBING! This is self explanatory. And lastly, probably the most important, RESPECT YOUR GUIDES AND OTHER PLAYERS! It is not wise to 'lose your cool' during a game. Any behaviour that is deemed unacceptable by the guides will cause them to deactivate your vest and escort you from the playing area. Depending on your situation, you may be ejected from the site. There are no refunds!!!  So, to answer the question, NO, your child should not get hurt under normal playing circumstances, and in several years of operation, we have had only a few minor incidents.

Another question we are frequently asked is: What is the minimum age to play at Darkzone? 

Well, in general terms, we require that the child be at least 6 years old. Why 6? Well, that is the age that seems to set apart the young ones: 1) that have difficulty understanding the requirements and rules to play the game, and 2) are at the size where the wearing of the equipment is not uncomfortable. (The Vest and Phasor combined equal only 7 lb. The third reason is the most important! Some young children do not readily possess  the capacity to distinguish between fantasy and reality. The Darkzone game, with all its enhancements is meant to create a feeling of exhilaration for the players and some young children feel threatened by so much input at once. They also feel threatened by being targeted by other players, and they do not yet possess the cognitive skills required to play the game properly without being overwhelmed.  We have had thousands of Hockey, Birthday and Daycamp children at 6 years old, and it is rare that they abandon a game, so that is the age limit we set.

If you do want your 5 year old to try the game, be warned, a Supervisor will try to change your mind, but bearing that, and you want to forge ahead - be advised in advance: There Are No Refunds!

Another FAQ: If my kids are going to stay there all day (à Volonté), is there somewhere they can eat? 

We have locker rentals for an hour($2) or for the entire day ($4). (You will need to leave some form of identity card for the key deposit). The lockers are large enough for two or three kids to store their stuff, and tables are available in the lounge for lunches, ect. If you bring a cooler, a warning, they do not fit in any lockers and you leave them at your own risk! We do not supervise personal belongings.

What type of clothes should I wear? 

Darkzone is an extremely strenuous sport. Every game will leave you hot, dehydrated and breathless. No matter what time of the year, one thing is sure, you will sweat in abundance after your game. So, the lighter the clothes, the better. If you intend to spend the day, Shorts and a T-Shirt are a great choice. (We have large bathrooms that can be used as a changing area).