Essentials to get started with LARP
Live-Action Role Play, or LARP, is a real-life based simulation game in which you create a character or take on a role and follow a specific storyline. The most popular genres of LARP are fantasy, western, science fiction, horror and survival.
No matter what kind of character you create, it’s important to have everything you need for the genre or setting in which your role play takes place. With a specific genre and setting in mind, you can find the right costume pieces, accessories and more for your themed character.
Tips on getting started with LARP
Here are a few ways to get into LARPing.
Check out social media or online forums for upcoming LARP events in or around your city.
Visit your local comic book or gaming store and ask about any upcoming events.
Create your own group of like-minded LARPers
If you decide to join an established LARP community, start by acting as a Non-Player Character. This will allow you to observe the game and learn how it works in real-time.
When creating your character, make sure it fits the theme or setting. This means getting the right props, accessories and clothes together. For more intense groups, it may also mean adapting to how they speak and interact with each other.
That said, don’t take yourself too seriously if you’re new to the process. It takes practice to get to know the craft. You’ll perfect your character (or characters) over time, so be patient and have fun.
Top things you need to start LARPing
With so many genres to choose from, the possibilities for LARPing are endless. Since LARPing is an immersive activity, you should try to encompass every area of your character’s costume and props. If you’re just starting and don’t know where to begin, here are the essentials.
LARP costumes
Men Hooded Robe Cloak: available at Amazon
Made for cosplay and LARP, this long cloak comes in several sizes and colors. Great for wizards, Jedi knights, plague doctors and mysterious strangers in the night.
Futurino Women Gothic Hooded Cloak: available at Amazon
This open-front cloak comes in multiple colors, including red, black, olive and navy. It’s perfect for those who LARP in chilly weather. Complete the look with a wand or gauntlet.
Belle Pogue Steampunk Ruffled Sleeveless Dress: available at Amazon
With drawstrings in the front, this renaissance-style dress is great for pirates, punk, cyberpunk and goth characters. Paired with the right props, it can even be worn for a wild west steampunk aesthetic.
Faux Fox Fur Trimmed Hooded Cloak: available at Etsy
Designed for medieval or viking LARP and cosplay, this full-length, elaborate cloak makes a great accessory for anyone who wants to look and feel like a noble warrior or hunter. It has a wide hood and comes in adult and child sizes.
Wrangler Men’s Long-Sleeve Western Shirt: available at Amazon
A casual, classic western shirt that comes in black or white. It’s comfortable, durable and lightweight. Perfect for those who want to feel at home on the range or need to adventure for lost treasures.
Futuristic Green Cloak With Hood: available at Etsy
For steampunk or science fiction LARPers, you can layer this hooded cloak with other theme-related attire to keep you warm. It’s made from high-quality cotton that holds its shape.
LARP headgear
Set I Shieldmaiden Viking Headdress & Blind Mask: available at Etsy
This elaborate headdress comes with a Medusa mask for fantasy lovers. It’s an elaborate piece for any LARP event, whether you’re playing a sorcerer, shaman or warrior. Both ornate pieces are handmade with quality materials.
UwantC Men’s Faux Felt Western Cowboy Hat: available at Amazon
Versatile enough for everyday wear or western-style roleplay, this well-made hat fits most wearers perfectly and is comfortable for hours of wear.
Alien Forehead Brow Prosthetic: available at Etsy
Science fiction and fantasy lovers will love this realistic silicone alien prosthetic. It’s easy to apply and comes in three different shades with customizable skin tones.
LARP weapons
LOOYAR Medieval Foam Two-Handed Sword: available at Amazon
Made to resemble steel, this foam longsword is a must for medieval knights or warriors looking to prove their worth in battle.
Custom-Engraved Dragon Folding Knife: available at Etsy
For the fantasy LARPers, this personally engraved dragon blade boasts excellent craftsmanship and a sharp edge. If you want to present it as a gift to a fellow LARPer, it also comes with a personalized leather case.
LOOYAR Medieval Foam Viking Axe: available at Amazon
For those who prefer the ruggedness of an axe in their role-play, this two-handed foam axe complements any Norse berserker or warrior outfit.
Forged Klingon Bat’leth Sword: available at Etsy
Inspired by the popular science fiction genre, this hand-forged blade comes sharpened or unsharpened, is well balanced and has a solid weight.
Vortex Blade Shop Decorative Western Revolver With Stand: available at Amazon
This metal revolver replica serves as an authentic accessory to any cowboy or outlaw character.
LARP accessories
ScienceGeek Kinetic Art Asteroid: available at Amazon
A perpetually moving prop that adds pop to any sci-fi atmosphere. It’s versatile enough for indoor or outdoor use.
Sabacc Credit Set Die Cast Zinc: available at Etsy
Star Wars-themed, solid zinc coins and Sabbac deck for sci-fi lovers and LARPers who enjoy a bit of high-stakes play.
Vinkor Flameless Candles: available at Amazon
Remote-operated, battery-powered candles that add atmosphere to late-night LARP events.
50 Burlap Bags With Drawstring: available at Amazon
These rustic-looking burlap sacks are large enough to fit anything from cell phones and wallets to jars. These bags are a great way to securely store important items that may not fit the setting.
Leather Writing Journal Notebook: available at Amazon
For game masters and organizers who need to keep track of different roles and events, this soft, high-quality leather journal is the perfect accessory. It comes with unlined paper and you can refill it as needed.
Simple Modern 17-Ounce Wave Water Bottle: available at Amazon
Steel, double-walled water bottles to keep you hydrated during long afternoons or overnight LARPing events.
Angela Watson is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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