Novi Insider

Looking for a fresh, exciting activity in Novi, Michigan, that combines the thrill of combat games with accessibility for everyone? Archery Tag might be just what you’re searching for! This increasingly popular sport offers all the excitement of paintball without the pain, bruises, or messy cleanup afterward. Participants use special bows to shoot foam-tipped arrows at opponents, creating an adrenaline-pumping experience that’s surprisingly safe and remarkably fun for players of all skill levels.

If you’ve never held a bow in your life or you’re a weekend warrior looking for your next challenge, Archery Tag is a great opportunity. The upcoming indoor session on August 2nd, 2025, provides all necessary equipment, so you don’t need to invest in gear to try this exhilarating sport. Before gameplay begins, an experienced instructor will teach everyone the fundamentals of proper bow handling and arrow shooting, ensuring that even complete beginners can participate confidently and safely.

Archery Tag is designed to be accessible to participants of all experience levels, making it perfect for friends, families, or even solo adventurers looking to meet new people. The basic setup involves teams competing in an arena with inflatable bunkers for cover, similar to paintball or laser tag environments. All equipment is provided at the event, including specially designed bows, foam-tipped arrows that can’t cause injury, and protective face masks to ensure everyone’s safety throughout the games. The arrows feature soft foam tips that deliver the excitement of hitting a target without the sting of paintball impacts.

Before the action begins, the instructor takes time to teach everyone proper shooting technique, safety protocols, and game rules. This introductory training ensures that all participants—regardless of prior archery experience—can confidently participate. The instructor demonstrates proper bow handling, aiming techniques, and safe gameplay practices. This instruction period typically lasts about 15-20 minutes, giving everyone ample opportunity to practice their shots and get comfortable with the equipment before the competitive games begin in earnest.

The August 2nd Archery Tag event features several exciting game modes to keep the action fresh and engaging throughout the session. “Chaos” is exactly what it sounds like—an all-out free-for-all where every player fends for themselves in an action-packed battle of skill and strategy. “Duels” offer a more focused experience, pitting players against each other in one-on-one showdowns that test accuracy and nerves under pressure. These varied formats ensure that participants experience different challenges and gameplay styles throughout the event.

For those who enjoy team-based scenarios, “Zombie” mode transforms tagged players into zombies who then hunt their former teammates, creating a shifting dynamic as the game progresses. “Grab the Flag” incorporates classic capture-the-flag strategy with archery combat for an adrenaline-pumping team challenge. The entire experience costs just $20 per person, with payment required by Thursday, July 31st, to secure your spot. You can easily pay via Zelle (ydilawar@gmail.com) or Venmo (@Yusuf-Dilawar, last four digits: 1890). The indoor location provides a climate-controlled environment, making this an all-weather activity you can enjoy regardless of summer heat or unexpected rain.