LARP (live action role playing) is an entertaining and enjoyable hobby. It usually feels more like vacation than school or work. However, LARP is similar to work or school in that you (as your character) work to achieve a set of goals.
Goals at school might include good grades or rewards given by parents. Workforce incentives can include promotions, raises or even prime parking spots.
Many LARPs offer players and characters rewards based on participation and achievement. Since LARPs are games, it's often easier to commit to risks and the rewards may seem more appealing than those you'll find in the mundane world.
Since we don't think of LARP as work or school, sometimes it's easy to forget those positive qualities we use in other environments. Here are five simple work and school habits you can use to improve your LARPing experience.
Be On Time
It's considered rude to show up late to school or work--and you could face penalties for it. Since you typically pay to play at a LARP, most monthly LARPs do not require you to show up by a certain time to play.
Showing up early, however, does have its benefits. You have time to socialze out of game with other players and you also have more time for costuming and make up. In some situations, getting there early can mean getting a better sleeping location or parking spot.
If you're in a rush, you're more likely to forget something. Ditch the stress and show up ahead of time! You'll also minimize the chance of missing important updates and safety and plot information.
Save Your Money
In real life, it always helps to have extra funds for an emergency or a rainy day. It's no different with 'ye olde gold' when you're LARPing.
You never know when the right opportunity or investment will show up in the game. Even the most impulsive character can benefit by banking money and resources (like health potions).
Double Check Before Leaving Home
Before you leave for work or school, you need to make sure you have all the materials you'll need for the day. These things could include food, writing implements, money and changes of clothing.
This is a beneficial habit to apply to your LARPing practices. With a bit of preparation and double-checking, you'll always have a back up boffer and you'll never go hungry on site. You'll also remember all of your costuming.
Maintain Professional Attitude
At work and school, it's important to maintain a professional attitude to avoid conflicts and fights. You're bound to certain ethical rules in these environments.
While you may play an unethical character at LARPs, as a player, you should still take a lesson from real life and maintain some integrity. This is especially helpful when it comes to obeying game rules (especially safety rules) or when experiencing conflicts with other players.
Take Notes
It works in LARP worlds as it works in school: the most knowledgeable characters write down events and other information.
This helps a person retain information. Furthermore, it provides a credible record of reference and presents multiple opportunities for a character to interact with others and for players to become further immersed in their environment.
Are you a LARPer who has taken some lessons from real life into the LARP world? What works for you? Please leave your additional selections below.
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