N E W T O L A R P ?
LARP is an exciting, worthwhile and immersive pastime full of good times and good people. With an ever growing list of live action roleplay groups across the UK and oversees, we're gaining traction as a community and getting bigger and bigger.
Getting started, however, can be daunting! What do you need? How do you get the best out of your game? Where is the best place to start with your own kit?
Here, we can offer you some suggestions on all of these things and throw in tips and tricks to get the best out of your first and subsequent games!
W H E R E T O S T A R T
WHAT SORT OF GAME?
There are loads of games of all sorts of genres.
Larpevents.co.uk provide a comprehensive list of events all over the UK. Finding a local game over facebook. Consider larping at a time of year which doesn't require much extra gear - winter and spring larps are always fun, but do need more in the way of kit in order to keep you safe and warm.
TO CREW OR TO PLAY?
See the crewing section of this page and our dedicated crewing page. Crewing is always a good way to gauge a system but nothing beats getting stuck in to play! Crewing at most games is free, so if you're strapped for pennies, this is a good way to get involved for as little as possible.
CONSTRUCT BASIC KIT SET.
Basic kit includes a tunic, some trousers, a warm cloak, leg wraps, many pairs of socks (we recommend sealskins), decent footwear and a larp weapon.
See the basic kit making guides for ideas and places to grab good quality kit once you can upgrade. Here's a guide on how to make/build an outfit for around £20. Make sure you are comfortable! There is nothing worse than being stuck in ill-fitting or uncomfortable kit all weekend.
Camping equipment basics include:
Tent -
Make sure you don't get a super cheap one, you get what you pay for.
Sleeping bag -
Coupled with a snuggly, fluffy blanket will keep you nice and toasty.
Something to sleep on -
Camping rolls are cheap and durable, but camping beds or inflatable mattresses get you off the floor).
Lighting -
You can get electric lanterns to hang around if you need light during the nighttime.
Cooler and Trash bag -
Place to keep food and to stick your rubbish.
Cooking equipment is a must for if you are cooking on a fire or on a camping stove and the event isn't catered. Also, a towel, Tools like hammers, a plate/bowl and some cutlery is advisable.
TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF
First and foremost, keeping yourself hydrated is paramount. Make sure you take breaks or naps, remember your personal care items such as toiletries, sunscreen, bug spray and any meds you'll need.
GET THE BEST OUT OF YOUR GAME.
Please remember, we're all chuffed to have you with us.
If you find yourself without something you need, don't be afraid to ask - we were all newbies once and may have exactly what you're looking for.
Get out there and get involved. Chase the monsters, talk to the NPCs, don't be afraid to ask questions. Refs won't be annoyed if you need rules clarifying and everyone else is happy to help too!
C R E W I N G !
Crewing is a low-cost way of introducing yourself to the hobby. Many systems ask you bring basic kit and a weapon with you but some do have crew/monster weapons and in some cases costumes for people to wear during the game.
Things to be aware of:
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It's still a very good idea to read the rules/game brief and know at least a little about the world you're going to play in. There may be a Wikia for you to read or documents on their facebooks/websites about what sort of cultures there are for people to play.
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Please pay attention to any kit guides unless the system says otherwise. For example, Erda observes a 'please try not to wear black' rule in both player and crew kit standards.
We also provide a list of things you'll need for crewing at Erda, which you can find here.
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Basic kit doesn't have to be expensive. Check out our kit on a budget guide.
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Remember - People will help you if you're unsure of things. Don't be afraid to ask a ref for clarification on rules or anything else.
We were all new once.