The recent IAAPA Expo was the stage for the New Zealand laser tag innovator Delta Strike to debut its new Genesis equipment.
Having been in development for three and a half years, the new generation hardware is a complete upgrade, with virtually no single part being carried over from the previous iteration.
"The internal electronics utilise the latest in microcontroller technology,” said CEO Doug Willems on his booth at the show. “The Genesis has much faster processing speed, power and memory. The result is the freedom to incorporate far more functionality for our customers. It's a huge leap forward that has been incredibly well-received. Although we've only just launched it at the show, we've been testing it in-house for some time and it's great to finally get it out there and see such a positive response.
"Before developing the product, we talked to our sales and support guys, operators and players. It was really about getting feedback from those who are most intimately involved in the use of the equipment. We then went away and implemented many of these ideas.
"We’ve all been so immersed in this project for such a long time, so when we finally come up for air and present the product to the world, it's an absolute delight to get the kind of response that we have had. And that acclaim has been topped off with a second-place Brass Ring Award from IAAPA for the best new product concept."
Delta Strike's previous product used a poncho-style vest, but the Genesis employs a new jacket, one of the changes made thanks to the feedback. Induction charging for the vests is also new, replenishing the battery wirelessly as it hangs on a charging hanger.
"Systems now don't go flat over the course of the day," said Willems. "With the additional benefit that there are no charging cables to damage."
A selfie camera on the phaser is used to allow players to take a picture of themselves; this image will then flash on an opponent's screen when they are tagged. There are 22 LED lights on the weapon as opposed to the six in the previous version, which "look visually stunning inside a darkened arena.”
A new tracking feature is an optional extra where players can be tracked on big screens in the foyer, so people waiting can follow the action. “It brings the game that's behind walls out to those waiting and builds interest and excitement," explained Willems.
Other features include a large, full-colour, HD LCD touch screen on the phaser, which offers interactivity and information during the game. The system also incorporates self-diagnostics AI. "If a part becomes disconnected or faulty, it alerts the operator that work needs to be done. The system is smart enough to recognise non-critical repairs. This means players can carry on playing but operators can make immediate repairs when the game is over."
Willems revealed that the company has already received many preorders, which will be shipping out from February to March 2020.
Image: Delta Strike CEO Doug Willems proudly holding the IAAPA Brass Ring award alongside his team at IAAPA Expo
