A live action role-playing game (LARP) is a form of role-playing game where the participants physically act out their characters' actions. The players pursue their characters' goals within a fictional setting represented by the real world, while interacting with one another in character. The outcome of player actions may be mediated by game rules, or determined by consensus between players.
The first LARPs were run in the late 1970s, inspired by role-playing games and genre fiction. The activity gained international popularity during the 1980s, and has diversified into wide variety of styles. Play may be very game-like, or may be more concerned with dramatic or artistic expression. The fictional genres used vary greatly, from realistic modern or historical settings to fantastic or futuristic eras. Production values are sometimes minimal, but can involve elaborate venues and costumes. LARPs range in size from small private events lasting a few hours to huge public events with thousands of players lasting for several days.
I've been completely blown away by this shit. I watched two documentaries about LARP in the past week, Monster Camp and Darkon. Fuck. I have no other words for it. I love Star Wars more than someone probably should, but I know it isn't real. I wish it was. Oh god do I.
This whole LARP thing is beyond me. Creating a whole other existence just seems like a cop out to facing your real problems. Mike has toruble talking to girls and staying focused in school. So he becomes "Dragamite the Rapist" and spends his weekends pretending to be the Jack the Ripper of the land of "Lohedia".
These "warriors" (virgins) get all decked out in their "armor" (cardboard shields and wiffle ball bats covered in foam) and storm the "battle field" (a local soccer field) to "dominate their opponents" (show who is the most virginist of the virgins).
Shit.
I have a few geeky tattoos, read comics, and watch cartoons. But I know what a boob feels like, and knowing is half the battle.
