Breaking Down Barriers: Why Do We Make LARP So Hard for New Players?

Why do we make it so hard for new players to enter the world of Live Action Role-Playing? This is an interesting question I have often wondered about. From rulebooks that span hundreds of pages to the intimidation of joining a pre-established social group, the barriers are real. Then there is the cost of equipment and the confusion of knowing where to actually buy it. These obstacles make it extremely difficult for new people to join a game.

So, what can we do as game runners and as a community to help new people overcome these hurdles?

The Rulebook: Less Textbook, More Gameplay

First, let’s look at the rulebook. What can be done to make this less like reading a university textbook and more like a quick guide that gets players right into the game? Game designers should do everything in their power to keep the rulebook short, simple, and to the point.

One specific trap to avoid, which I have personally witnessed, is over-complicating magic systems. For example, rules where specific elements cancel out other elements (such as water cancelling fire, lightning cancelling earth, and vice versa) often require a whole separate section to explain. It sounds cool in theory, but it unnecessarily lengthens the reading material. Keep it simple.

Furthermore, organization is key. Ensure there is a comprehensive index so players can find what they need quickly and skip over sections they do not need to memorize immediately.

Some organizers argue that a massive, detailed rulebook stops “power gaming” and “rules lawyers.” However, the problem with this logic is that almost no one will memorize a massive book. Consequently, people will play in the grey areas. They might ask, “Are you sure that is what the rulebook says?” and then bend the vague or forgotten rules to their advantage. This actually makes power gaming and rule-bending worse. Sticking to a short, easy-to-understand rule set ensures everyone is on the same page.

Overcoming Social Intimidation

Making players feel comfortable at your game is just as important as the rules. Meeting a new group of people is always intimidating; you are naturally concerned about how you will be perceived and if you will fit in.

What can games and players do to help new people integrate?

1. The NPC Walkabout: Game runners can arrange for new players to go on a “walkabout” with a specific Non-Player Character (NPC). This guide can introduce them to other characters and take them on a small, low-pressure adventure. This allows them to get a feel for the game mechanics and the world without being thrown into the deep end alone.

2. Guilds and Factions: Veterans can be arranged to help new people get settled through in-game structures. If a new person is interested in magic, there should be a Mage’s Guild ready to welcome them. If they want to play a thief, a Thieves’ Guild can show them the ropes. If your game has factions, ask the veteran players in those groups to actively recruit and mentor the new player.

3. The Mentor System: Finally, finding veteran players who are genuinely looking for someone to help is a powerful tool. Pair an experienced action player with a newcomer in a mentor-student relationship. This helps the new player learn the ropes, but it also reminds the veteran player why they love the game. It fosters a mutual appreciation and ensures the new player does not feel like an outsider.

The Cost of Entry

The financial cost of equipment is often the final barrier. The first thing games should do is be transparent. Explain exactly how much it costs to play, including ticket prices and gear. There is no point in a player getting excited about a game only to realize later that they cannot afford the entry fee.

However, we can do more than just list prices. We can work to lower them:

• Business Partnerships: Organizers can approach local businesses or artisans and ask for group rates. If you can say, “We have X number of players, and we will promote your shop if you offer a discount,” it creates a win-win situation.
• The “Community Closet”: Games can encourage veteran players to donate costume pieces or weapons they no longer use. Having a loaner stockpile allows new players to try the game before committing to expensive purchases.
• DIY Tutorials: Not everything needs to be bought. Community leaders should provide tutorials on how to make items easily and cheaply. Teaching a new player how to modify a thrift store shirt or build a simple boffer weapon can save them money and make them feel more invested in the hobby.

Remember that starting anything new can be intimidating. We need to do our best to ensure that new players feel welcomed into this community. By simplifying our rules, creating structured mentorships, and lowering the financial barrier to entry, we can keep this hobby growing and thriving.

I hope these ideas will help your game make it easier for new people to become a part of our world.