The Nerf Lazer Tag Phoenix LTX Tagger 2-pack is considered one of the oldest and most successful home laser tag sets ever made.
The Phoenix LTX blasters were first released in 2008 as part of the Nerf Lazer Tag series. These laser tag guns are equipped with great features and are both sophisticated and easy to use.
In this review, I will discuss the main features of this popular set and provide an objective analysis of what I like and dislike about it.
The Nerf Lazer Tag Phoenix set is available for purchase on Amazon.
About the Lazer Tag Brand
The Nerf Lazer Tag brand was initially created by American toy company Worlds of Wonder. In 1990, when Worlds of Wonder stopped operations, the Lazer Tag brand was acquired by product invention company Shoot the Moon and later licensed to toy manufacturer Tiger Electronics.
In 1998, Tiger Electronics was acquired by Hasbro, which also owns the Nerf brand. As a result, the Lazer Tag brand became integrated into the Nerf line of products.
Numerous laser tag blasters have been manufactured since the introduction of the Lazer Tag brand in the 1980s, with the Phoenix LTX, initially launched in 2008, being considered one of the most successful models.
The Lazer Tag series was discontinued in 2012, and Nerf released a new series of laser blasters called Laser Ops in the same year. For more information, you can read my review of the Laser Ops Pro blasters.
Despite the official retirement of the Nerf Lazer Tag series, the Phoenix LTX set can still be purchased on Amazon. While no longer available in stores, they remain popular on the online marketplace.
Phoenix LTX Tagger 2024 Features
Now it is time to proceed to the enjoyable portion.
Now, let’s explore the key features and characteristics of the Phoenix LTX Tagger 2-Pack home laser tag set.
1. Game Mode
Prior to beginning a laser tag match, players must select from two distinct game mode settings: solo or team play.
Solo is a game where players compete against each other to determine the winner.
Team mode allows players to participate in laser tag games with different teams. It ensures that teammates cannot be unintentionally tagged, and the number of hits determines the winning team. Teams can have multiple players, and once formed, they cannot be altered during gameplay.
It should be noted that multiple Phoenix LTX sets are available for purchase, and all blasters can be used in the same laser tag battle.
2. Indoor / Outdoor Switch
Before starting a battle, it is necessary to choose between playing an indoor or outdoor game. Laser tag can be played both indoors and outside in the park with this laser tag set.
There are slight differences between these two settings. For instance, the outdoor option provides a further range when playing outdoors.
3. Light and Sound Effects
Home laser tag guns typically have exaggerated sound effects that can become annoying. However, the Nerf Phoenix LTX stands out with its cool and more balanced sound effects.
Each registered hit is accompanied by light, sound, and vibration effects, enhancing the players’ understanding of combat. Additionally, a recoil effect adds to the realism of the game.
The Phoenix LTX taggers are generally heavier and larger than many other home laser tag guns available online. This may be a concern for young children with smaller hands, but they are considered to be quite ergonomic.
4. Ammo Indicator and Strength Switch
The blaster’s ammo indicator provides information about your ammunition levels.
To reload during battle, press the power core release button and reinsert it into the blaster. Once completed, you will be fully loaded and ready to continue.
The strength switch is a unique feature that determines the number of hits a player can sustain before being eliminated. The available options include 10 or 25 lives and cannot be altered during gameplay.
When playing with larger teams, selecting the 25-lives setting is more logical because players will experience more hits. In a one-on-one battle, choosing 10 lives may be the preferred option to avoid excessively long games.
5. Shield Activation
One of the features is the shield activation button, which protects being tagged for a specific duration. The trade-off is the inability to tag your opponents as well.
Shield activation is a strategic maneuver that can be beneficial in certain situations, such as when surrounded by enemies, as it provides a protective barrier and allows for potential escape.
It is important to note that shield activation has limitations and should be used judiciously.
6. Batteries
One notable disadvantage of the Phoenix LTX set is that each blaster necessitates a minimum of 6 AA batteries for functioning. Consequently, when acquiring this home laser tag set, you will need to procure 12 AA batteries. Undoubtedly, these blasters are quite power-hungry.
The batteries have a decent lifespan, so you only need to buy a set of 12 initially. After that, you won’t have to worry about replacing them frequently.
Additionally, a screwdriver is necessary to insert and secure the batteries.
Check Price
Phoenix LTX Instructional Video, Laser Tag Source
Phoenix LTX Battery Replacement Tutorial
Final Thoughts
The Nerf Lazer Tag Phoenix LTX home laser tag set is still available for purchase and continues to maintain its popularity over the years.
Despite its age, the Phoenix LTX model can still rival newer models and outperform many cheaper laser tag sets in several aspects.
Do I recommend this laser tag set?
Yes, I do. It may become a collector’s item, and having a variety of blasters at home is nice for laser tag enthusiasts.
