Frequently Asked Questions

What is LARP?

• Live action roleplaying (LARPing) is at the intersection of your favorite fantasy book, improv theater, and a picnic in the park—and you get to actively be the hero (or villain) instead of second-hand entertainment.

What are the benefits of LARPing?

• Meet people and make friends, even if you’re shy or new; everyone’s there to play together.

• Get outside moving around, swinging swords, and having fun exercise without it feeling like a workout.

• Be creative: sewing garb, crafting armor and weapons, writing quests and persona histories, performing traditional or unique material, or helping run games and events.

• Practice teamwork, problem‑solving, and empathy in a low‑stakes, playful setting.

• Try on different characters, which builds confidence and helps you communicate and lead.

• Play your way: hardcore fighter, arts‑and‑crafts addict, organizing leader, performative storyteller, or just someone who wants to hang out.

Is it safe?

• We use padded weapons, clear safety rules, and reeves (referees). You are swinging at real people, but the system is designed to keep things safe and fun.

What do I need to get started?

• Show up and sign a waiver.* That's it!
  * If you're under 18, bring your legal guardian.

How much does it cost?

• Nothing. Zero. Zip. Nil. Nada. Not one nickel! When you start out, we have loaner equipment you can borrow. 

Who can play?

• We welcome visitors of all kinds and all ages. To play the game you should be at least 14 years old, but there are some exceptions. Drop by and chat with our "monarch" (club president).

Do I have to do/wear/be/say something specific?

• We won't make you do anything you're not comfortable with. Hanging out is low-risk and safe in all senses of the word. But if you want to play on the field, earn titles, or join the leadership, you do need to follow the rulebook and corpora.

Is the rulebook all I need?

• To play the game, yes. But we also have a corpora of by-laws which outlines how the club is run--like who can run for office, how often, and what responsibilities they have. Additionally, we have a monster manual, Dor un Avathar,  which allows you to play real, fantastical, and mythological creatures.

Is everything based on European history/culture?

• No. Though inspired by Euro-centric sword-and-sorcery, we encourage you to create the persona which best suits you. The clothing, name, and backstory of your persona could be from anywhere and (almost) anywhen.

Do I need a persona name?

• Technically, no. But after a few weeks we're going to end up calling you something. We recommend picking a name within the first month lest our creative members name you something ...awkward.

Is Amtgard family-friendly?

• Yes. We bring our kids (and grandkids) with us. 

Is this sponsored by a business, church, or other organization?

• No, the only organization is Amtgard International. Amtgard is a not-for-profit organization run by volunteers.

How do I find out more?

• Stop by and say "Hello!" We love to answer questions and show you what it's all about.