iCOMBAT Did You Know: Respawn Pods
Looking to add more strategy and structure to your laser tag missions? Respawn Pods are a game-changing feature that brings a new level of depth to your battlefield. This requires players to return to a designated zone after being tagged out, which encourages tactical decision-making, promotes fair play, and creates a natural flow in your game sessions.
What Are Respawn Pods?
Respawn Pods require players to return to a designated “home base” after being tagged out in order to re-enter the game. This mechanic adds an extra layer of strategy, encourages tactical movement, and prevents players from being instantly eliminated after respawning—creating a more balanced, immersive experience for everyone.
How They Work
Using a Respawn Pod is simple:
- Players return to the pod after getting tagged out.
- Stand within 6–8 feet of the pod, facing toward the unit.
- Press the button on top, and the pod will light up, emitting an IR signal to respawn the players back into the game.
Key Advantages
- Tactical Play: Forces players to move with purpose, regroup, and rethink their approach.
- No Spawn Camping: Removes the ability to target players immediately after respawn.
- Smooth Flow: Creates a natural regrouping zone that enhances game structure and immersion.
Gameplay Tips
- Strategic Placement: Place in areas with multiple access points and visual cover to avoid players from spawn camping.
- Balance Travel Distance: Both teams should have roughly equal access to their pod.
- Elevate the Pod: Position pods on a podium around waist to chest height for optimal IR signal reach.
Mobile Operators
For mobile laser tag businesses operating on open fields or temporary setups, Respawn Pods offer both structure and control:
- Keeps players in range of the Game Marshal by requiring them to return to a designated zone.
- Discourages players from wandering too far, helping maintain a centralized and safe play area.
- No software required – Respawn Pods work seamlessly with built-in game modes on both Valkyrie and Hero Blast systems. Just power on and play.
Automatic Respawn Pods (Requires CCM)
Already using Respawn Pods? You may not be aware that an automatic option is available through the iCE software. You will need to sync the Respawn Pod with the CCM in iCE to use the Automatic respawn feature.
Enable Automatic Respawn Pods to keep them active throughout the mission—no button press needed. This is perfect for:
- Youth groups
- Faster-paced games
- Simplified gameplay flow
This setting can be enabled in ICE under the Global Settings menu.
Looking for more game-enhancing tools? Check out more of our Accessories here!
Keep following our iCOMBAT Did You Know series—and if you’re ready to upgrade your battlefield, reach out to our team to learn how to get Respawn Pods for your laser tag setup!
