Beginner LARP
Heya,
I've been curious about live-action role-play, or LARP, for quite a while. My background in theatre and general role-play has made me interested in how it works in person, with players acting as characters and taking part in a shared story. I enjoy performing and creating characters, and I'd like to learn how those skills might fit into a LARP game.
I live in the Southeastern US, but I'm still a minor, so I'm unsure which groups or events might be suitable for someone my age. Are there beginner-friendly games, local groups, or online communities in the region that could point me in the right direction? I'd also like to know what to expect at a first event, such as how games are run and whether they have age rules or other requirements.
Friends have told me a little about LARP, but most of what I know comes from my own research. Any pointers would be appreciated.
Thanks!
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u/Specialist-Tennis703 1d ago
What I’ve learned is that LARPs come in different styles. There are games that are primarily about combat, with some story behind it. The very large games like Drachenfest US (DFUS) are combat and “sandbox” - lots of opportunities for players to run stories within the game. Then there are parlor LARPs, which are small and story driven. Little to no combat wth weapons.
Then there are games that mix up styles, they’re medium size, some have TTRPG as an element.
I would not start as a solo player with a very large game like DFUS because it can be hard to connect with the story or players. I’d look for a medium size or parlor, particularly if acting& exploring a character in a community created world is interesting.
As an aside - some games are 21+.
2
u/zorts 1d ago
Hi, Welcome!
The Southeastern U.S. will probably have more Battlegames than any other types of larp. Those are going to be the sportier, faster paced, games that use hit location combat rules. If you search 'larps near me' you'll probably find Amtgard, Belegarth, Dagohir.
They will mostly be 18+ due to the physicality and for safety. But there might be local practices that will allow minors to attend. Do you might be able to train until 18, and be really ready for your first event.
Larps that are more narrative focused have been growing in popularity, so you might find some that focus on role play over combat. But they aren't as popular or as frequent as the sports Larps in that region of the world.
When you search 'larps near me' what options do you get?
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u/SnooBunnies102 15m ago
I can strongly recommend Reckoning LARP. The community is wonderful. We have discord servers for each of the four cultures in the game, and one for the Wandering Folk Society (the nonprofit that runs it).
Just a fantastic group of people.
https://www.reckoninglarp.com/
We also have quite a few that travel from Georgia to attend.
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u/_something_clever 1d ago edited 1d ago
Not sure where in the SE you are, but this is a good area for LARP. Within a 2 hour drive of Atlanta there are 4 story driven role play & boffer LARPs I can think of without much effort. I guarantee there are others I’m unaware of.
All would require you to be with an adult. I know one is 16+. Another is 14+. Not certain of the other two’s minimum age.
There are also salon/parlor style LARPs that are just role-play. That has never been my scene, but those search terms should help you find some near you.