We're not just another business - we're your neighbors. Born and raised right here in this community, we know firsthand how challenging it can be to find quality entertainment and activities close to home. Too often, we've watched our friends and families drive hours just to find something exciting to do together, while good-paying jobs disappear from our area. That's why we created Bone + Bear Battlefield - to bring something special back home where it belongs.
Our mission goes beyond just providing thrilling tactical sports. We're committed to creating local jobs, supporting our community's economy, and giving families and friends a reason to stay close to home for their adventures. Whether you're planning a weekend outing with your kids, organizing a group of friends for some tactical competition, or looking for unique team-building experiences, we've built something here that brings people together. We believe our community deserves world-class entertainment without the long drive, and we're proud to deliver exactly that while supporting the place that raised us.
This is our home. This is your battlefield. Let's build something great together.
Outside food and non-alcoholic beverages are welcome. We have designated areas for breaks and meals. Along with a rotating menu of available onsite farm-fresh menu offerings. Discounted food passes can be made at the time of your reservation or al a carte offerings onsite.
GENERAL QUESTIONS
What makes Battle Company BPR equipment different from regular laser tag?
Battle Company manufactures professional-grade tactical laser tag equipment used by military training facilities and law enforcement. Unlike the plastic toys at indoor arcades or the basic equipment our competitors use, BPR taggers feature:
Authentic weight and feel (4-6 lbs) for realistic handling
Red dot scopes for precise aiming
650+ foot range in daylight conditions
Multiple hit zones (head, chest, back, gun)
15+ different game modes
Real-time statistics and scoring
Realistic sound effects and muzzle flash
Durable construction that handles outdoor conditions
This isn't the laser tag you played as a kid - this is tactical simulation that corporate teams and serious players choose for authentic experiences.
What exactly is tactical laser tag and how does it work?
Our tactical laser tag system uses advanced infrared technology (similar to your TV remote) combined with military-grade sensors to create an immersive combat simulation. Each player wears a sensor vest and headband that detects "hits" from other players' taggers. When you pull the trigger, an invisible infrared beam shoots up to 650 feet through our forest arena.
Unlike traditional laser tag in dark, cramped indoor arcades, our Battle Company BPR systems work brilliantly in full daylight, allowing us to use our beautiful 2-acre forest as a natural battlefield. The equipment tracks hits, scores, remaining "lives," and even which player tagged you - all displayed on your tagger's screen in real-time. Think of it as a real-life video game in the woods of Southern Illinois!
Do I need experience to play?
Not at all! We welcome complete beginners and provide safety briefings and basic tactical instruction. Our three zones accommodate all skill levels, from first-timers to experienced operators.
What age groups can play?
We welcome players aged 12 and up. Minors under 18 must have a signed parental waiver and adult supervision during play.
SAFETY & PARENT CONCERNS
Is outdoor laser tag really safer than paintball or airsoft?
Absolutely! Laser tag is the safest combat sport available. Here's why parents near Metropolis, IL choose us over paintball or airsoft venues:
Zero projectiles - Nothing physical ever hits players
No protective gear needed - No masks, padding, or special clothing
No bruises, welts, or injuries - Grandparents can play with grandkids
No paint mess - Kids leave as clean as they arrived
Equal playing field - Athletic ability doesn't determine who wins
Supervised gameplay - Professional marshal always present
Insurance companies rate laser tag in the same category as mini golf for liability - that's how safe it is!
My child has never played before. Will they be at a disadvantage?
Not at all! Our Battle Company system has built-in balancing features. We can adjust difficulty levels, give newer players more "lives," or create mixed teams. Our game marshal teaches everyone before play begins, and we start with simple games before advancing. Many parents tell us their non-athletic kids actually excel at laser tag because it rewards strategy and stealth over strength or speed.
What if my child is scared or wants to stop playing?
Our professional game marshal monitors all players continuously. Anyone can take a break anytime - we have shaded rest areas where parents can watch. Players can rejoin the next game whenever ready. Unlike paintball fields that rush groups through, our appointment-only model means your group sets the pace. No pressure, no judgment, just fun!
GAMEPLAY & ZONES How do the three zones work?
Each zone offers different tactical challenges:
+ The Boneyard: Close-quarters urban combat
+ Bear's Den: Defensive stronghold with elevated positions
+ Oscar's Revenge: Open maneuvering and long-range engagements
Games rotate through zones to give players varied experiences.
How long are games?
Typical game sessions last 30-60 minutes, depending on the scenario, with breaks between rounds for strategy and reloading. Day passes are available for multiple game sessions.
What types of game modes do you offer?
We run various scenarios, including Team Deathmatch, Capture the Flag, King of the Hill, VIP Escort missions, and custom tactical scenarios. Certain days are just open play.
COMPARING US TO COMPETITORS
Why choose Bone & Bear over indoor laser tag at places like Pirate Pete's?
While Pirate Pete's offers quick 15-minute indoor games, we provide a completely different experience:
Natural forest arena vs cramped black-light maze
2-3 hour adventures vs rushed 15-minute sessions
Private group bookings vs sharing with strangers
Professional equipment vs arcade-style plastic guns
Fresh air and nature vs stuffy indoor environment
650-foot range vs 30-foot indoor range
Tactical gameplay vs run-and-gun chaos
Team building focus vs individual scoring only
Perfect for birthday parties, corporate events, and groups wanting a premium experience in Southern Illinois.
How do you compare to R&J Tactical Laser Tag in Woodlawn?
R&J offers a good experience, but several factors set us apart:
Battle Company professional equipment
Forest terrain provides natural cover and strategy
Specialized 8-24 group size ensures personalized attention
Mobile service available within 90 miles
Corporate team-building expertise with custom scenarios
Appointment-only means you never wait or feel rushed
Professional game marshal included (not just equipment rental)
What about Adventure SimX's mobile laser tag?
Adventure SimX only offers mobile service, while we provide both a permanent forest arena AND mobile options. Key differences:
Permanent 2-acre forest arena for the ultimate experience
Battle Company BPR equipment vs basic mobile gear
Natural obstacles and terrain vs empty fields
Established location near Metropolis, IL for easy planning
Higher capacity (up to 24 players vs typical 16)
Weather-resistant venue with shelter areas
CORPORATE & TEAM BUILDING
Why is laser tag better than traditional team building activities?
Escape rooms, trust falls, and rope courses are outdated. Modern teams need dynamic experiences that naturally develop leadership, communication, and strategy. Our tactical laser tag:
Reveals natural leaders through actual leadership scenarios
Requires constant communication for team success
Breaks down hierarchies - the CEO and intern are equals
Creates memorable stories teams reference for years
Accommodates all fitness levels unlike physical challenges
Provides measurable results through scoring and statistics
Energizes participants instead of boring them
Illinois companies repeatedly choose us because employees actually WANT to participate!
Can you customize scenarios for our corporate objectives?
Absolutely! Our Battle Company system offers 15+ game modes we can tailor to your goals:
Communication Focus: Radio-limited scenarios requiring clear verbal coordination
Leadership Development: Rotating team captain modes
Problem Solving: Objective-based missions with puzzles
Collaboration: Games where only teamwork wins
Competition: Department vs department tournaments
Strategy: Capture-and-hold resource management
Innovation: Create-your-own-tactics rounds
Our game marshal will work with your HR team to align gameplay with your specific team-building objectives.
Do you provide reports or analytics for corporate groups?
Yes! Our Battle Company equipment tracks extensive statistics that create talking points for debrief sessions:
Accuracy percentages
Team coordination scores
Leadership effectiveness ratings
Communication patterns
Strategy implementation success
Individual and team improvements
Most Valuable Player awards
Most Improved Player recognition
Many Southern Illinois companies use these metrics in their post-event discussions and team reviews.
BOOKING & LOGISTICS
Why do you only take groups of 8-24 players?
This sweet spot ensures everyone gets a premium experience:
8 minimum ensures dynamic team gameplay (4 vs 4)
24 maximum allows our marshal to provide personal attention
Private bookings mean your group owns the arena
Better pricing than per-person indoor venues
Team dynamics work best in this range
Equipment allocation optimized for these numbers
For larger corporate events, we can run multiple sessions.
How far in advance should we book for birthday parties or events?
For weekend birthday parties in Southern Illinois, we recommend booking 2-3 weeks ahead, especially during spring and fall peak seasons. Corporate team building events typically book 3-4 weeks out. Summer camps and youth groups often reserve months in advance. Our appointment-only model means limited slots, but guarantees your group gets our full attention.
What happens if it rains on our scheduled day?
Light rain actually makes laser tag MORE exciting - like being in an action movie! We only cancel for:
Lightning within 5 miles
Tornado warnings
Severe thunderstorms
Ice conditions
If we must cancel for safety:
Full refund OR reschedule (your choice)
Priority rebooking
We'll call you 2 hours before if weather looks questionable
Our forest canopy provides surprising protection - we've played through many drizzly days with happy customers!
PRICING & VALUE
Why is your pricing higher than Pirate Pete's indoor laser tag?
You're comparing apples to oranges. Pirate Pete's offers quick arcade-style games, while we provide:
2-3 hour private events vs 15-minute public sessions
Professional Battle Company equipment vs arcade toys
2-acre natural arena vs small indoor maze
Dedicated game marshal vs self-service
Exclusive group booking vs playing with strangers
Multiple game modes vs single elimination
Outdoor adventure vs indoor arcade
When you calculate per-hour entertainment value for your entire group, we're actually more affordable than multiple rounds at indoor venues.
Are there any hidden fees or additional costs?
Never! Your quoted price includes:
All equipment and instruction
Professional game marshal for entire session
Multiple game rounds and modes
Basic liability insurance coverage
Use of rest areas and facilities
Free parking
Water stations
MOBILE SERVICE QUESTIONS
How does mobile laser tag work for events at our location?
We bring the battlefield to you! Our mobile service includes:
Complete Battle Company equipment setup
Professional game marshal
Boundary markers and props
Pop-up shelter for command post
Everything needed for epic battles
You provide:
Open space (minimum 100x100 feet)
Power outlet (or we bring generator for $50)
Restroom access for staff
Excited players!
We serve within 90 miles of Metropolis,IL, covering Southern Illinois, Western Kentucky, and Southeast Missouri.
Can you set up laser tag indoors for corporate events?
Yes! While our outdoor forest arena is amazing, we can configure Battle Company equipment for:
Warehouses
Gymnasiums
Large conference centers
Airplane hangars
Industrial facilities
Minimum ceiling height of 10 feet and 5,000 square feet of open space required. Perfect for corporate campuses wanting on-site team building without travel time!
MOBILE SERVICE QUESTIONS
How does mobile laser tag work for events at our location?
We bring the battlefield to you! Our mobile service includes:
Complete Battle Company equipment setup
Professional game marshal
Boundary markers and props
Pop-up shelter for command post
Everything needed for epic battles
You provide:
Open space (minimum 100x100 feet)
Power outlet (or we bring generator for $50)
Restroom access for staff
Excited players!
We serve within 90 miles of Metropolis, IL, covering Southern Illinois, Western Kentucky, and Southeast Missouri.
Can you set up laser tag indoors for corporate events?
Yes! While our outdoor forest arena is amazing, we can configure Battle Company equipment for:
Warehouses
Gymnasiums
Large conference centers
Airplane hangars
Industrial facilities
Minimum ceiling height of 10 feet and 5,000 square feet of open space required. Perfect for corporate campuses wanting on-site team building without travel time!
UNIQUE FEATURES & AMENITIES
What makes your forest arena special compared to empty fields?
Our 2-acre woodland battlefield near Metropolis, IL offers:
Natural fallen logs for cover
Elevation changes for tactical advantage
Dense trees creating natural mazes
Clearings for base locations
Creek bed (dry) for trench warfare
Varied sight lines from 10-650 feet
Shaded gameplay even in summer
Wildlife sounds adding atmosphere
Every game feels different as teams discover new strategies using natural features!
Do you have facilities for non-playing parents or younger siblings?
Yes! We designed our venue for families:
Shaded observation areas with seating
Clear view of most playing areas
Picnic tables for parties
Clean portable restrooms
Free WiFi for waiting parents
Safe play area for younger siblings
Plenty of parking
Photography-friendly zones
Parents often enjoy watching as much as kids enjoy playing!
FOUNDERS CIRCLE & COMMUNITY
What is the Founders Circle and why should I join?
Our Founders Circle is a community-supported initiative helping us enhance Southern Illinois' premier outdoor entertainment venue. Members receive:
20% lifetime discount on all bookings (pays for itself in 3-4 visits)
Priority booking during peak seasons
Permanent recognition on our Founders Wall
Exclusive events just for Founders
First access to new equipment and game modes
Voting rights on arena improvements
Satisfaction of supporting local family business
Limited to 100 founding members - join this exclusive group today!
How does supporting Bone & Bear help the local community?
Every dollar spent here stays in Southern Illinois:
Local family owned and operated
Employing area youth as marshals
Partnering with regional schools
Supporting local youth sports teams
Purchasing from area suppliers
Providing affordable entertainment options
Keeping kids active and outdoors
Bringing visitors to boost local economy
When you choose us over chains, you're investing in your community's future!
BOOKING & CONTACT
How do I check availability and book our laser tag adventure?
Simply fill out our contact form and our team will respond within one business day.
Where exactly are you located?
20 minutes from Paducah, KY
30 minutes from Marion, IL
Easy access from I-24
Free parking on-site
GPS-friendly location
SEO-OPTIMIZED FOOTER QUESTIONS
Is laser tag good exercise?
Yes! Players typically walk/run 2-3 miles during a session, burning 400-600 calories while having fun outdoors in Southern Illinois' beautiful forests.
What's the best age for laser tag birthday parties?
While we accommodate ages 7-70, peak enjoyment typically occurs at ages 8-14 for birthday parties. These ages appreciate strategy while maintaining enthusiasm for outdoor adventure.
Can you play laser tag at night?
Currently, we operate daytime sessions only for safety. Our Battle Company equipment works perfectly in daylight, unlike indoor laser tag that requires darkness.
Is laser tag just for boys?
Absolutely not! Our female players often dominate through strategy and teamwork. Corporate groups appreciate that laser tag levels playing fields regardless of gender or athletic ability.
What's the best season for outdoor laser tag in Southern Illinois?
Every season offers unique advantages:
Spring: Perfect temperatures, green forest
Summer: Full canopy shade, long days
Fall: Stunning colors, crisp air
Winter: Better visibility, intense games
We operate year-round except in severe weather!
Do you offer discounts to law enforcement and active duty military personnel?
Yes. We offer discounts with proper identification.
Ready to start your tactical adventure? Book your mission today!
