Buy two for multiplayer!

Having recently tried a few AR style games/toys, I can without hesitation say that this is what AR should be. Nerf has hit it out of the park with this one and given the lower price, I'd be happy to purchase this again!

If you want to access the multiplayer capability, you must buy two of these (it'd be cool if they were sold in a set), but there is still a single player mode and you can also use it as a regular gun toy with lights and sounds. You should note that it does NOT fire like a normal NERF gun, it is for use as a set (with or without app), or with the app in single player only, but it can always be used as an imaginative/prop toy for sci-fi pretend time!

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Multiplayer
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Unfortunately, as I only have one, I can't comment much on the multiplayer. As I understand it, you can either do a laser tag style showdown, without the app. Alternatively, you can use the app and play a game with the armbands and two people, you'll need two armbands, two guns and two phones. The only downside of this is worry about your phone being protected. The reality is that the slightly jelly-like armband wraps really well around the phone and creates a 'bumper' so the chance of damage to your phone is slim. It's not going to fall out, but it's definitely possible for somebody to dive, wearing the armband and hit a jutting out rock or something which could hurt your screen. With a screen protector and a case, there's really nothing to worry about.

Laster tag is a lot of fun and I can definitely see that the multiplayer modes would be a blast, but did not get to personally try them. One thing that's a little annoying is the app is only available until JUNE 30, 2020. However, unlike other AR toys I've tried, this has capability without the app, both in Multiplayer and solo.

The gun's can also be adjusted to both outdoor and indoor play.

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Solo Play
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In terms of solo play, you really have to play with the app. If you only have one gun and the app goes away, you just have a prop gun. So that's a little sad. But this product is priced low enough that it's not a deal-breaker and if you have a second gun, you'll always be able to play laser tag, if I'm understanding correctly.

The solo play requires you to attach the armband onto the gun mount. The explanations are clear and easy to follow for once. Then you just follow the instructions and play the game. This is a very fun/clever AR game, if a little repetitive. Kids won't get bored of it as fast as an adult does, but it's a very straightforward shooter. Basically 'drone' style enemies appear. Since there's no 'targets' they appear all over the room, requiring turning and moving the gun to get a shot. Through in the need to 'reload' every so often and it's pretty hectic and a good way to run down kid's energy or get an unfit adult some exercise. As the game gets longer more drones - that need more shots to destroy - keep the pressure on.

Since the phone is accessible at all times, you can easily tap it to do upgrades and other things between levels. It's cleverly designed and easy to use. Frankly, it's also super fun to see the little drones zip around your living room (or garden if you so desire).

You can also pull the trigger on the gun to make sounds effects occur and use it for pretend play.

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SUMMARY
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Pros
+ Play is possible without app in multiplayer modes
+ Can be used as a prop with sound effects and light
+ Design is cool and sounds are fun too!
+ Multiplayer is like laser tag, very fun.
+ Can be played outdoors or indoors.
+ Solo app mode is clever, fun and can be played easily.
+ Solo app moder gets kids exercise/requires a lot of movement.
+ Lots of different ways to play.
+ Easy to setup/use.

Cons
- App is only available until JUNE 30, 2020
- Doesn't come with batteries (requires 4xAAA)

Info:
- Single player requires app.
- Requires two guns to play multiplayer.
- Age 8+
- Some might be nervous about using a phone with it.

Recommended: Yes. Especially if you get it on the lower price. It's a lot of fun, but I'd recommend buying two to access the multiplayer features!