What’s more exciting than shooting at your friends (and some strangers) while running around a futuristic battlefield inside a space station?  That’s easy - nothing. Ultrazone is easily one of the best things to do in the L.A. area. You can be any age and still get a kick out of it.

I’ve been here for my own birthday where we had a large group of people and played against other teams. The little kids ran around and (I admit) pretty much whooped our butts because they could get in and out of all the small spots faster than we could move.

There are obstacles and barriers all around the battlefield; imagine a TRON-like maze that keeps you moving at all times because you are never fully hidden from your attackers. On the battlefield, there are three bases and you have to attack two of them while protecting your own.

Regardless of our inability to blast our way out of the battle, it was still one of the best ways to spend time with good friends in addition to making some new ones.

The second time I visited Ultrazone, we rented out the whole battlefield and played against our other friends. This was a bit more expensive (about $315 on the weekend, and you can have up to 45 people playing), but it was totally worth it because we all chipped in and got to have our own private laser war. I can tell you, there’s nothing better than chasing your best friends around with laser guns and then playing in an arcade afterward.

Also, for those of you who are 21 and over, there are some great sports bars and restaurants you can hit up for drinks across the street after you're done playing. It should also be noted that Ultrazone parking is abundant and easy.

Besides laser tag, there are plenty of arcade games, a full concession area and even a private room for those who want to have your own private party.  The rental price of the whole room is custom-priced for your event, so it might be a little on the expensive side. But again, if you get enough people to chip in, it’s perfect.

It’s refreshing to have something different to do with your friends rather than the same old thing - you're never too old for laser tag!

Ultrazone is located at 14622 Ventura Blvd. Suite 208 in Sherman Oaks. Call 818-789-6620 or visit zonehead.com for more information.