GAMR | Arcade Laser Tag & VR

If you're on the hunt for a place to burn off some serious kid-energy, especially on a rainy day, GAMR in Chirnside Park is a fantastic find. Tucked away on the first level of the Oz Tenpin building, it’s a family-friendly entertainment hub that’s more than just an arcade. It’s a vibrant mix of high-tech and classic fun, centered around a huge laser tag arena, a bunch of virtual reality (VR) booths, and a solid collection of arcade games. It has a relaxed, welcoming vibe and even has a small café, making it a spot where you can genuinely spend a few hours without everyone getting bored.

Age Appropriateness

This is one of those places that really can cater to a wide range of ages, which is a lifesaver for families with multiple kids.

• Toddlers/Preschoolers: While the main attractions are for the older kids, they have a small "Junior Jungle Gym" crawl space. It's conveniently located next to the café, so you can keep an eye on your little one while sipping a coffee.
• Primary Schoolers (5-9): The laser tag is a huge hit for this group. It's recommended for ages 5 and up, but you know your child best when it comes to dark spaces and loud noises. The arena is massive (400sqm!) with ramps and even a tank prop to hide in, which kids absolutely love. Many of the arcade games are also perfect for this age.
• Tweens & Teens (10+): This is the sweet spot for GAMR. They'll love the competitive laser tag and are the perfect age for the VR experiences. The venue recommends VR for ages 10 and up, as players need to control the experience themselves. There are over 50 VR games to choose from, with both single and multiplayer options. They also have a "Wreck Room" for ages 13+ where they can smash things like bottles and plates—with parental supervision and a signed waiver, of course!

The Highlights (Pros)

• Variety is Key: The combination of laser tag, VR, and arcade games means there's something to keep everyone engaged. The free-play retro arcade machines are a brilliant touch, letting kids have fun without constantly asking for more tokens.
• Awesome Laser Tag: The laser tag arena is genuinely impressive. It’s a large, multi-level maze with great lighting, smoke machines, and fun soundtracks like Star Wars or Spider-Man scores. It can accommodate up to 21 players per game, making it great for groups and parties.
• Party Central: They seem to have the kids' party formula down pat. Reviews often mention how stress-free the parties are, with staff handling setup, cleanup, and hosting duties so parents can actually relax. Parents can even join in the fun at no extra cost during parties.
• Friendly Staff: Many visitors praise the staff for being welcoming, helpful, and great with the kids, which makes a huge difference to the overall experience.

The Watch-Outs (Cons)

• Can Get Noisy: As with any place filled with excited kids and arcade machines, the noise level can be high. If you or your child are sensitive to loud sounds, it might be a bit overwhelming during peak times.
• Potential for Crowds: Because it’s a popular spot for parties, it can get quite busy, especially on weekends. This might mean waiting for VR booths or having a very full laser tag game.
• Location: It's located on Level 1, inside another entertainment complex (Oz Tenpin), which might not be immediately obvious from the outside if it's your first visit.
• Food Policy: Be aware that no outside hot food or drinks are allowed, as they have their own café.

Practical Survival Tips for Parents

• Book Ahead: Especially for VR or if you're going with a group, it's a good idea to book online or call in advance to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.
• Check for Deals: Keep an eye on their website or Groupon for special deals, like unlimited laser tag nights on Fridays or family passes, which can offer great value.
• Wear Closed-Toe Shoes: This is a must for both laser tag and the Wreck Room for safety reasons.
• Arrive Early: Plan to arrive about 15 minutes before your booked time. This gives you a buffer for parking, checking in, and getting briefed on the activities without feeling rushed.
• Parking: Being part of a larger complex means there is generally parking available, but it can fill up during peak weekend periods, so factor that into your timing.