Archery Attack Melbourne

Hey fellow parents! If you're on the hunt for an activity that gets the kids off their screens and genuinely gets their adrenaline pumping, you have to hear about our recent trip to Archery Attack in Reservoir. Think of it as a mash-up of dodgeball, laser tag, and, of course, archery. It's an indoor combat archery sport where everyone gets a bow and special foam-tipped arrows to shoot at the opposing team. The goal is to hit your opponents or knock out their targets to win. It sounds a bit intense, but it’s all done in a super safe, controlled environment that’s less about aggression and more about strategy, teamwork, and just having a ridiculously fun time running around.

Age Appropriateness

The official recommendation from Archery Attack is for players to be aged 10 and up. After seeing it in action, I'd say this is a pretty good guideline. While the bows are user-friendly, they do require a bit of strength to pull back effectively, which might be tough for younger kids. The game is fast-paced, and it helps if the players can grasp the rules and strategy quickly. We went with our 11-year-old and a group of his friends, and it was the perfect energy level for them. For younger siblings, they might feel a bit left out as this isn't really a spectator sport where they can safely watch up close, so it's best for families with tweens and teens.

The Highlights (Pros)

First off, the safety measures are fantastic. The staff give a thorough briefing at the beginning, covering all the rules and ensuring everyone knows how to use the equipment properly. Players wear face masks for protection, and the arrows have soft, marshmallow-like foam tips that don't hurt when they hit. It's all the thrill of a combat game with none of the pain or bruises.

The venue itself is a huge plus. It’s a dedicated indoor space, so you don’t have to worry about the weather ruining your plans. The playing field is set up with inflatable bunkers to hide behind, which adds a great strategic element to the game. The staff were brilliant with the kids – energetic, engaging, and really good at explaining the different game modes to keep things interesting. It’s also a fantastic team-building activity that encourages communication and working together, which was great to see.

The Watch-Outs (Cons)

Honestly, there aren't many downsides, but there are a few things to be aware of. The location in Reservoir is in a fairly industrial area, so it’s not the most picturesque spot, but once you're inside, that doesn't matter. The price point can be a bit steep, especially if you're bringing a whole group, so it’s more of a "special occasion" or birthday party activity rather than a casual weekend outing. Also, it is a proper workout! The kids (and adults!) will be running, dodging, and ducking constantly, so be prepared for them to be completely exhausted—and very sweaty—by the end of it.

Practical Survival Tips for Parents

• Book in Advance: This place is popular, especially for parties and on weekends. Definitely book your session online ahead of time to avoid disappointment.
• Dress for Action: Light, comfortable sportswear and trainers are a must. Everyone will get hot and sweaty, so layers you can remove are a good idea.
• Parking is Available: There is on-site parking available, which is a huge relief. You won't have to circle the block looking for a spot.
• Hydration is Key: Bring water bottles for everyone! They have a water cooler for refills, but having your own bottle handy is essential. All that running around is thirsty work.
• Party Room Facilities: If you're planning a party, they have a function room you can use. You'll need to bring your own food and cake, but it's a great space to refuel and debrief after the battle.