Laser Tag Showdown at Times Square

Joining a hot techno-trend, two new laser tag arenas are gunning for customers in New York City’s Times Square area. An outfit called XS New York fired the opening shot last week; LaZer Park plans to open by April 15.

At “nearly” 5,000 square feet, XS says it has the world’s largest laser tag arena, although LaZer Park claims a full 5,000 square feet. In the games, players score points by hitting opponents or goals with beams from laser guns.

Laser tag is only one attraction at the vast XS New York “virtual reality” center, which opened in January at 1457 Broadway with dozens of interactive games plus Internet access and beers from 66 nations. Admission is free, but the games cost. Laser tag is $7.50 for 15 minutes of play. Information: telephone (212) 398-5467..

LaZer Park, at 1560 Broadway, will also offer BattleTech tank combat and Red Planet racing games at $8.95 per round. Information: tel. (212) 398-3060.