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    Hard Knocks Brings SWAT-Level Laser Tag to Columbus

    When you hear the words “laser tag”, most people think about 80s-era plastic toys and black-lit rooms in the back of a bowling alley or Chuck E Cheese. Joe Wheeler — the founder of Hard Knocks — wants you to think instead about a realistic combat simulator designed for the modern age.

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    “People often refer to us as real-life Call of Duty,” he says. “Think of us as SWAT-level laser tag, rated PG-13.”

    Wheeler first launched Hard Knocks in Orlando in 2006, and the business has quickly grown to six locations around the country with two more on the way. The latest location is a franchise operation here in Columbus, which officially opened last Saturday.

    “We have a couple of entrepreneurs who wanted to bring a franchise to Columbus,” said Wheeler. “Columbus is a nice market for our concept, so we feel very good about it.”

    Located in a large building at 100 Dillmont Drive near the intersection of North High Street and Lazelle Road, Hard Knocks features real world style weapons and three different combat arenas — a warehouse, an office and a home — each one decorated with appropriate props and obstacles. Within each area, players can take part in a variety of missions to keep the challenges unique and interesting.

    “Some are about rescuing hostages, while in others you need to assassinate a VIP,” said Wheeler.

    Hard Knocks is available during the day for private parties and corporate team building events, and open for public hours in the evenings. The space features a lounge and bar with beer and wine for adults. The price of participating varies based on the time of day, size of the group, number of hours booked, and other special event promotions.

    For more information, visit www.indoorwar.com.

    All photos via Hard Knocks.

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    Walker Evans
    Walker Evanshttps://columbusunderground.com
    Walker Evans is the co-founder of Columbus Underground, along with his wife and business partner Anne Evans. Walker has turned local media into a full time career over the past decade and serves on multiple boards and committees throughout the community.
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