larp Archives - Guardian Adventures

Museums are evolving from static spaces where information is simply presented into dynamic environments that engage visitors in meaningful and even transformative ways. Transformative Game Design plays an important role in this evolution, turning museum visits into immersive, interactive experiences that not only educate but also inspire visitors to take action based on their new insights.

This approach leverages game mechanics to create compelling narratives/adventures and challenges that resonate with visitors on a personal level. This then encourages them to reflect on and change their behavior outside the museum. This concept is called “transfer” and is considered the pinnacle of education. But this process is entirely dependent upon the type of experience the visitor has, how they feel about it (because emotion inspires action), and whether or not they know what their next step is for acting on this new perspective.

To help illustrate this, we’ve come up with nine example interactions that are broken out into the type of Exhibit, the Design of the interaction, and the Action that this inspires in the visitor.

1. Climate Action Simulation

Exhibit: Climate Crisis Interactive
Design: Visitors participate in a role-playing game where they act as leaders of different countries tasked with negotiating a global climate deal. The game uses real data to show the impact of their decisions on global emissions and climate change.
Action: Participants are encouraged to commit to personal or community actions to reduce carbon footprints, with resources (based on their locale) provided to help them implement these changes.

2. Historical Immersion LARP

Exhibit: The Underground Railroad Experience
Design: A live-action role-playing (LARP) game that recreates scenarios from the Underground Railroad. Visitors assume the roles of various historical figures, making critical decisions that affect their journey to freedom.
Action: This exhibit prompts visitors to engage with modern issues of justice and equality, directing them to volunteer opportunities with local civil rights organizations.

3. Economic Decision-Making Game

Exhibit: Trade and Commerce in the Ancient World
Design: An interactive board game where players trade goods along historical trade routes, facing challenges like pirates and storms. The game highlights the economic principles and the impact of trade policies.
Action: Players learn about fair trade and are provided with information on how to support ethical consumer practices.

4. Public Health Interactive Challenge

Exhibit: Outbreak!
Design: A digital interactive experience where visitors work together to stop a spreading infectious disease by making public health decisions and allocating resources effectively.
Action: The game encourages visitors to participate in health initiatives and educates them on ways to prevent disease spread in their communities.

5. Art Conservation Puzzle

Exhibit: Art in Peril
Design: Visitors solve puzzles that simulate the challenges of art conservation, understanding the chemistry and artistry behind preservation techniques.
Action: Inspired by the exhibit, visitors can donate to art preservation funds or participate in local art restoration projects.

6. Wildlife Conservation Strategy Game

Exhibit: Endangered Ecosystems
Design: A strategy game where visitors manage a wildlife reserve, making decisions about habitat protection and species conservation.
Action: This game inspires visitors to support or volunteer for wildlife conservation efforts and provides information on adopting endangered animals.

7. Archaeological Dig Simulation

Exhibit: Digging Into the Past
Design: A hands-on exhibit where visitors participate in a simulated archaeological dig, uncovering replicas of artifacts and learning about the scientific methods used in archaeology.
Action: Participants are encouraged to support archaeological research through educational programs or become amateur archaeologists… even what local colleges offer archeology as a course.

8. Space Exploration Interactive Lab

Exhibit: Mission to Mars
Design: An interactive lab where visitors plan a mission to Mars, involving challenges like spacecraft design, navigation, and life support systems.
Action: This interaction promotes interest in STEM fields and offers links to space camps and science education initiatives.

9. Sustainable Living Workshop

Exhibit: Future Cities
Design: This interactive model city allows visitors to be involved in urban planning and sustainability decision-making. As they make choices about infrastructure, energy sources, and public spaces, they see the real-time impact of their decisions on the city’s development.
Action: Visitors leave equipped with a “sustainable living toolkit” that includes practical tips and resources for reducing energy consumption and waste in their own homes, encouraging them to make environmentally friendly choices daily.

We hope you found inspiration in the above examples transformative game design that can make museum exhibits more than just informative—they can become catalysts for personal and social change. By adding interactive and actionable elements into your museum experience, your visitors are not only educated but also motivated to apply their new knowledge in meaningful ways. And isn’t that the best outcome for education?

Guardian Adventures provides transformative game consulting and program development for museum and science centers, summer camps, amusement & attraction industries, and more.

By Meghan Gardner, Cultura Connector, and Claudia A. Fox Tree, Cultura Connector

When game developers and filmmakers dive into cultures as their inspiration for their next big project—be it a video game, a role-playing game (RPG), live-action role-play (LARP), or a film or TV series—Indigenous cultures often provide a tempting source of material. However, incorporating these elements without a deep understanding and respect for their significance can lead to a host of issues, from cultural appropriation to the reinforcement of outdated stereotypes, affecting both the representation of and the real-life conditions for Indigenous communities.

Cultural Borrowing: More Than Just Aesthetic

It’s a common sight in games and on-screen: Indigenous symbols and practices used as shorthand for exoticism or mysticism. In an RPG, characters might wear tribal masks without context, or a LARP event might feature rituals stripped of their true cultural meaning. When used carelessly, these elements can reduce elaborate and long-standing traditions to mere costumes or backdrops, ignoring their deep roots and significance.

This casual use of cultural symbols undermines the complexity and richness of the cultures they come from and also risks perpetuating a distorted and superficial understanding among audiences. To address this, a more thoughtful approach is needed. Instead of directly lifting these elements, creators can engage in deep research to understand the broader cultural, historical, and social contexts of the symbols they wish to represent. This research can then inspire the creation of original content that echoes the thematic richness of real-world cultures without appropriating their specific sacred or culturally significant symbols.

Additionally, developers and creators can benefit from partnerships with cultural heritage organizations or directly involve Indigenous-identifying educators and advisors (specifically, active members of, and lived experience within, those cultures) who can provide guidance on cultural representation. These collaborations can help ensure that any cultural elements integrated into the narrative are done so with respect and accuracy, honoring the source rather than exploiting it. Such practices prevent cultural insensitivity and enrich the game or show’s world-building, offering players and viewers a more immersive and respectful experience.

Stereotypes That Stick

RPGs, LARPs, and fantasy media often lean on familiar archetypes: the wise sage, the fierce warrior, and the mysterious shaman. Yet, when these roles are designated to Indigenous characters, they frequently perpetuate outdated stereotypes that don’t capture the complexities and contemporaneity of Indigenous lives. These simplified portrayals can reinforce perceptions, portraying Indigenous cultures through a lens that’s both narrow and often romanticized.

As mentioned above, creators can start by involving Indigenous writers and cultural advisors in the development process, ensuring that characters and stories reflect a more accurate and nuanced view of Indigenous cultures. This inclusion helps to break down clichés and introduce a wider range of characters with diverse personalities, backgrounds, and stories that go beyond the traditional archetypes.

Another solution is to provide character development by focusing on individuality rather than ethnicity alone. This means creating Indigenous characters whose roles and identities aren’t defined solely by their cultural background but are integral to the narrative in ways that any character would be. By doing so, games, films, and series can offer a more genuine and respectful representation, highlighting Indigenous communities’ diversity.

The Ripple Effects on Real Communities

The way Indigenous cultures are depicted in games and media doesn’t just stay within the confines of those worlds. For example, when sacred items appear as game accessories, it often leads to mass production and commercial exploitation. This not only strips Indigenous communities of cultural respect but can also rob them of potential economic benefits, including compensation and possibly a share of profits if the culture is the major focus of the project. Additionally, these misrepresentations can distort public understanding of Indigenous issues, complicating efforts to address real-world concerns like sovereignty, return of ancestors (bones) and ceremonial items from museums, and cultural preservation, such as language reclamation, seriously.

To mitigate these negative impacts, creators can implement measures that respect and protect the integrity of Indigenous cultural elements. One approach might be offering licensing agreements that involve Indigenous communities in the profits derived from their cultural contributions (but only with their permission). This ensures that communities are compensated fairly and maintain control and final say over how their culture is represented and used.

Creators can also focus on educational outcomes by integrating accurate cultural histories and contemporary issues facing Indigenous communities into their narratives. As mentioned before (are you seeing a trend?), through collaborations with Indigenous historians and cultural experts, ensuring that the content not only entertains but also informs and educates audiences about the realities of Indigenous life today.

Distinguishing Fantasy from Reality in Game Design

In the realm of fantasy-based games, there’s a delicate line between crafting a rich, imaginative world and blurring the line of fantasy with the reality of existing cultures. Indigenous cultures are not relics of the past or mythical entities but are living, breathing communities that still thrive today. It’s crucial for game developers to recognize this distinction to avoid trivializing or mythologizing real-world cultures.

When developing fantasy games, the temptation might be strong to draw on Indigenous cultures’ visual or spiritual elements to add a layer of “authenticity” or mystique. However, this approach can inadvertently present these cultures as ancient or fantastical, rather than acknowledging their contemporary existence, let alone relevance. This distorts player perceptions of these cultures and contributes to broader misunderstandings and disrespect.

A more responsible approach involves creating entirely new, fictional cultures for fantasy settings, which can be inspired by a blend of many influences while carefully avoiding reinforcing stereotypes or direct appropriation of identifiable cultural symbols and practices. For example, a film that is about pirates and ghosts can be fantasy. Still, when it takes place in a real-life place, the Caribbean, it should not then introduce Indigenous people via stereotypes (cannibalism). By creating new fictional cultures, developers can enrich their games with diverse, intriguing worlds without risking harm to real communities.

When adapting elements, developers can (yup – you guessed it) integrate Indigenous consultants into the creative process to ensure that any borrowed cultural elements are handled with care and respect. These experts can guide developers in understanding which aspects of a culture are appropriate to adapt and which should be avoided to prevent cultural insensitivity, misrepresentation, and perpetuation of stereotypes.

A Call for Indigenous Creation

The call for more ethical creation in these entertainment mediums is getting louder. More developers and producers are realizing the importance of consulting with Indigenous cultural experts and communities from the conceptual phase through to production. This collaboration helps ensure that portrayals are respectful and accurate and that they contribute positively to the cultural landscape.

However, there is an even better approach: investing in Indigenous-led storytelling across all these platforms. The narratives naturally become more authentic and diverse by empowering Indigenous creators to tell their own stories. This enriches the games and shows and broadens the audience’s understanding of Indigenous cultures.

This movement is about more than just adding authenticity; it shifts the creative power to the voices most qualified to represent their cultures and experiences. When Indigenous storytellers are at the helm, they bring a depth of perspective that can transform how stories are told, the nuances they include, and the themes they explore.

This shift toward Indigenous-led storytelling ensures a more nuanced portrayal of Indigenous peoples’ complexities, challenges, and triumphs. It also helps avoid the pitfalls of tokenism and surface-level representation, which often occur when stories about Indigenous cultures are told without their direct involvement. Indigenous creators can introduce audiences to the vibrancy and variety within their cultures, challenging stereotypes and expanding viewers’ understanding beyond the typical narratives.

When games, films, and series feature stories crafted by Indigenous writers and directors, they contribute to a more diverse media landscape. This diversity makes the content richer and more interesting and plays a vital role in educating the audience. It provides a platform for Indigenous cultures to share their histories, values, and visions for the future, promoting greater empathy and appreciation among a broader audience.

Indigenous-led projects can also inspire younger generations within those communities to explore storytelling and media creation themselves. Seeing their cultures portrayed with respect and depth can empower them and provide a sense of possibility and pride in their cultural identity.

As creators in these fields continue to draw on real-world cultures to enrich their fictional worlds, the responsibility grows to handle such inspirations with care. The goal should be celebrating and respecting these cultures rather than reducing them to stereotypes or aesthetic elements. By engaging with and supporting Indigenous voices in the creation process, the entertainment industry can help foster a more inclusive and accurate cultural representation. The investment in Indigenous-led storytelling is pivotal not just for the sake of accurate representation but for the cultural empowerment and educational potential it holds. It’s a progressive step that enriches the entire spectrum of media, offering audiences everywhere a chance to engage with and understand Indigenous cultures in a profound and impactful way.

Guardian Adventures provides LARP and game consulting and program development for museum and science centers, summer camps, amusement & attraction industries, and more.

Hey there, Summer Camp Directors!

Let’s dive into how you can make your camp unforgettable, not just during the summer but all year round. Imagine keeping your campers and staff hooked with epic stories and adventures, even when they’re not at camp. Here’s how you can use online LARPs (Live Action Role Playing) and Zoom (or other video conference platform) to keep the camp spirit alive…

1. 1. 1. Leave Them Hanging: End your summer with a bang and a cliffhanger! It’ll keep your campers thinking about camp all year, eager to jump back into the story when it goes online.
    2. Zoom Into Adventure: Set up regular online meet-ups where your campers can continue their quests. It’s a great way to keep the story rolling and the creativity (and learning if this is an EduLARP) growing.
    3. Level Up: Encourage your campers to “power up” their characters in the off-season. If you run a Guild Hall or other means for campers to increase their in-game skills then you can do an online version of this during the online LARPs.
    4. Dive Deeper: Run some sessions that explore your LARP’s world. The more your campers know about the land and its lore, the more invested they’ll get.
    5. Make New Friends: Use these online LARPs to help newbies understand how the game works and make friends before summer even starts. Nothing like shared adventures to bond over, right?
    6. Get Creative with Staff: Let your staff head up the storytelling (as long as it is in keeping with your mission and the world of the LARP you have created). They can help evolve the plot and bring fresh ideas that will make next summer even more awesome.
    7. Feedback is Gold: After each online session, ask what everyone thought. This helps you tweak things to make your LARP adventures even better. One thing to remember: When you run an emotionally intense session, even if it is over Zoom, always include a Debrief at the end so that the campers can process the their feelings about the adventure in a safe environment. This has a significant impact on the retention and use of new knowledge if your camp uses LARP to explore SEL or STEM topics.
    8. Off Season Revenue: Think about charging a small fee for the off-season sessions. It’s a win-win: extra funds for you, continuous adventure for them. And the events are not weather dependent!
    9. Global Overnight Camper & Staff Reach: Off-season Zoom-based LARPs can extend your overnight camp’s reach beyond your region, inviting kids and potential staff from all around the world to join in the fun. This global connection not only enriches your camp community with diverse perspectives and cultures but also allows international campers to make friends, familiarize themselves with your camp’s culture, and get excited about possibly attending in person in the future. It’s a great way to build a worldwide camp family and showcase your camp’s unique experiences to a global audience.
    10. Tease Them for Next Summer: Drop hints, teasers, and cool updates about what’s coming up in the camp’s story and activities. It keeps the hype going and might even attract new faces – especially if your campers are allowed to invite their friends.

An in-person event idea is Mini-LARPs for Locals. If you run day camps, how about in-person mini-LARP events nearby during the off-season? Keep your local campers engaged and excited and encourage them to bring their friends.

If you keep the adventure going all year, you’re not just a summer camp; you’re a year-round community. Your campers and staff will be more engaged than ever and excited for summer to roll back around. Let’s make camping more than a summer thing – let’s make it a lifelong adventure!

Guardian Adventures provides LARP and game consulting and program development for museum and science centers, summer camps, amusement & attraction industries, and more.

In all of the work I have been doing with museums and science centers lately, I hear the same concerns over and over again: How do I add more engagement to my existing exhibits without breaking the bank on new tech or hiring more staff? History museums in particular face this obstacle.

Well good news! I’ve got some ideas listed below that can solve your concerns and NOT bust your budget.

1. Hands-On Replicas and Artifacts

Provide replicas of historical artifacts allowing visitors to physically handle and examine items up close, offering a tangible connection to the past. This approach makes the historical experience more relatable and less abstract, inspiring a deeper understanding and curiosity.

2. Interactive Boards and Flip Panels

Adding interactive boards or flip panels to the exhibits can encourage visitors to actively participate in their learning experience. These can include questions, puzzles, or hidden information that visitors can uncover, which adds an element of discovery and engagement without needing digital technology.

3. Static Clue-Based Scavenger Hunts

Create a scavenger hunt that visitors can engage with at their own pace which encourages exploration and attention to detail. Providing clues or questions that lead visitors through the exhibits can turn a visit into an adventure, making learning fun and memorable.

4. Storytelling Through Letters and Diaries

Incorporating facsimiles of letters, diaries, or historical documents within displays allows visitors in history museums to explore personal stories and perspectives from the past. This method helps humanize historical figures and events, creating emotional connections without the need for digital aids or live performances.

5. Thematic Pathways

Design thematic pathways through the museum that guide visitors on a journey through specific topics or eras. By organizing exhibits around exciting themes and providing clear, engaging signage, your museum can offer structured yet self-guided tours that cater to varied interests.

6. Question and Reflection Prompts

Place thought-provoking questions or reflection prompts throughout the exhibits which encourage visitors to think critically about what they are seeing and how it relates to their own lives or contemporary issues. This strategy creates personal connection and deeper engagement with the content.

7. Interactive Maps and Timelines

Large, printed maps or timelines with movable markers let your visitors track historical movements, events, or developments. This hands-on approach helps visitors understand the scope and scale of historical events in a tangible way.

8. Role-Playing or Persona Cards

Offer visitors the chance to adopt an historical persona or a role when they enter the museum and engage with the exhibit through the eyes of that persona. This adds a layer of immersion through the use of the visitor’s own imagination.

9. Feedback Walls or Comment Books

Encourage your visitors to leave their thoughts, reflections, or answers to specific questions on a feedback wall or in a comment book. This allows them to contribute to the collective museum experience. It can also provide a sense of community and shared discovery, as well as provide valuable feedback for the museum.

10. DIY Craft or Activity Stations

Set up activity stations where visitors can engage in historical crafts or activities at their own pace allows for hands-on learning without the need for digital technology or additional staff. These stations can include simple instructions and materials for activities relevant to the museum’s theme, such as making mini catapults (with soft projectiles, of course) in a medieval exhibit.

By adding these low or no-tech and low staff solutions, history museums can create more engaging and interactive exhibits that enhance the visitor experience by encouraging active participation, personal reflection, and hands-on learning. Give one of these ideas a try (or let us know if you need help) and help make history accessible and engaging for all ages.

Guardian Adventures provides immersive and interactive elements consulting and program development for museum and science centers, summer camps, amusement & attraction industries, and more.

Live Action Role Playing (LARP) has emerged as an innovative and engaging vehicle for museums to educate visitors about artifacts and cultures. This immersive approach involves participants actively engaging in role-playing scenarios that are often based on historical, cultural, or fantastical themes. By integrating educational LARP (also known as EduLARP) into their programs, museums can offer a more dynamic way to experience history and culture, moving well beyond traditional passive learning methods like reading a placard or watching a video.

Educational Benefits of LARP

Enhanced Engagement and Learning Retention: LARP activities in museums create a participatory learning environment. Numerous studies have shown that active participation in learning activities significantly enhances memory retention and understanding. For instance, a study by National Training Laboratories found that the average retention rate for participatory teaching methods like practice by doing was 75%, compared to just 5% for lecture-based learning¹.

Fostering Empathy and Cultural Understanding: By stepping into the shoes of historical figures or cultural representatives, participants gain a deeper understanding and empathy for different perspectives and ways of life. This experiential learning approach is shown in research indicating that role-playing can effectively foster empathy and social understanding².

Encouraging Critical Thinking and Creativity: LARP in museums challenges participants to think critically and creatively as they navigate through scenarios. This aligns with educational theories that emphasize the importance of critical thinking and problem-solving skills in learning³.

How to Add LARP into Your Museum

Design Culturally and Historically Accurate Scenarios: Right from the start of the planning stage, it’s vital for you to collaborate with historians and especially cultural advisors, who are active members in that culture, to ensure the accuracy of the LARP scenarios. This not only respects the represented cultures but also provides an authentic learning experience that doesn’t cross over into cultural appropriation. If you don’t have program designers on staff, you can bring in an experienced designer who knows how to work with cultural advisors. Another important consideration is making the LARP accessible.

Incorporate Artifacts and Exhibits: Your LARP scenarios can be designed around specific artifacts or exhibits, allowing your guests to interact with the history or artifacts (such as replicas) and learn about them in a contextually rich setting. This method can bring life to your museum’s historical artifacts and make their stories more relatable.

Train Staff and Volunteers: Effective implementation of LARP in museums requires recruiting and training staff or volunteers who can guide participants and ensure a safe, respectful, and educational experience. Another important aspect of the experience is to engage the participants in a Debrief so that they can connect their new knowledge with their own lived experience. Ideally, the training is accessible as an online course or hybrid program so that your additional or future staff can learn how to run the adventure outside of the original training group. This helps ensure that you are not left with a lack of people capable of running the LARP due to limited staffing.

Case Studies and Examples

Several museums have successfully integrated LARP into their educational programs. For instance, the Guangdong’s Jiangmen Museum in China has conducted LARP sessions where participants engage in scenarios based on ancient civilizations, providing a hands-on experience of history⁴. Similarly, the Museum of the Moving Image has hosted LARP events that immerse visitors in their exhibition “Creatures from the Land of Thra: Character Design for The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance”⁵.

More museums are stepping into the realm of high interactivity in a way that doesn’t necessitate investment in expensive technology and instead capitalizes on the human to human interaction that guests of all ages crave.

Key Takeaway Points

LARP in museums represents a dynamic intersection of education, history, and interactive storytelling.
LARP enhances engagement and learning retention, fosters empathy and cultural understanding, and encourages critical thinking and creativity.
Its successful implementation, as seen in institutions like the British Museum and the National Museum of Denmark, proves its potential in transforming how museums educate and connect with their visitors.
The key to its effectiveness lies in the careful design of scenarios with cultural advisors, integration with artifacts, and skilled facilitation.

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References

Guardian Adventures provides LARP and game consulting and program development for museum and science centers, summer camps, amusement & attraction industries, and more.

Live Action Role Playing (LARP) and tabletop Role-Playing Games (RPGs) are finally being recognized as effective educational tools because they harness the power of immersive experiences to facilitate learning. Back in 2002, our company recognized that these role-playing modalities leverage three key motivators for learning: Autonomy, Progress, and Belonging. These happen to be the same motivators that make video games so appealing to participants. We just decided to “unplug” the experience and replicate these elements within LARP and RPGs. Our success allows us to shed light on their potential to greatly enhance the educational experience.

Autonomy: Personalized Learning Paths

Autonomy in learning is about offering choices and control over the learning process. In both LARP and RPGs, players are given the freedom to choose their characters, actions, and responses to various scenarios, which aligns with the Self-Determination Theory (SDT). This theory states that autonomy is a critical factor in motivating learners. Studies have demonstrated that when learners feel a sense of autonomy, they are more likely to engage deeply and meaningfully with the material[1]. In LARP and RPGs, this translates to participants actively engaging in creating their own story from the narrative and making decisions that influence action and their character’s development, mirroring real-world decision-making.

We also differentiate “autonomy” from “agency” in LARP and RPGs. Agency, in this sense, is the ability to change the narrative outcome. In other words, a typical board game has specific outcomes for winning. However, in LARP and RPGs that allow a higher level of agency, the game designers and the game facilitator will actually change the overarching narrative to reflect the decisions of the players – even so far as completely re-writing what they originally had in mind if necessary. This degree of player agency is a powerful aspect of co-creation and can improve the overall experience.

Progress: Visualizing Skill Development

Progress is a vital motivator in learning because many participants and learners need to see and measure their growth. In LARP and RPGs, progress is often tangible and visible. An example of this is providing players with “Skill Tokens” when they accomplish a specific task. These tokens can then be used to purchase more character skills or even artifacts or information that can be instrumental in the navigation of the challenges their character faces.

Participants also develop skills in areas such as problem-solving, communication, teamwork, and even STEM education if the game is an EduLARP. The experiential learning model, which both LARP and RPGs embody, emphasizes learning through experience and reflection (or Debrief), leading to a deeper understanding and retention of knowledge[2]. Players also get to navigate through challenges and achieve specific goals in the game seeing their progress in real-time, which is both motivating and rewarding.

Belonging: Creating a Community in Role-Playing

Of the three motivators listed, the most important is Belonging. If a player or student does not feel like they belong in the game or learning environment, then they will not feel agency and likely have a distorted sense of progress compared to the other participants. LARP and RPGs can create a unique sense of community among participants by encouraging the players to bring aspects of themselves into the game environment and have those aspects make a difference. This can create a level of authenticity in the experience that encourages them to feel like they not only belong… they matter. An example of this is creating a special skill for a player who likes to sing – and that if they sing their wizard spell, it creates a more powerful impact in the interaction.

This aspect of belonging aligns with Vygotsky’s Social Development Theory, which emphasizes the importance of social interaction in learning[3]. The collaborative nature of role-playing activities encourages communication, empathy, and understanding among players while building a supportive community that values differences and varied lived experiences. This sense of belonging can lead to increased motivation, engagement, and retention of information, as players feel they are authentically part of a larger, meaningful experience.

The Role of Game Masters in Facilitating Learning

In both LARP and RPGs, the role of the Game Master (GM) or facilitator is crucial in guiding the narrative and ensuring a positive learning experience. The GM make the game more inclusive by exploring the culture of some or all of the participants. They can adapt the game to suit educational objectives, adapting scenarios to reinforce specific skills or knowledge areas[4]. Examples of this include players learning spells that are based in physics or warrior characters learning about the geometry of sword fighting. This adaptability can also enhance the autonomy and agency of the learners if the game evolves to meet their individual needs and interests. An example of this is allowing the players to research and create their own spells or skills based in STEM.

The motivators of Autonomy, Progress, and Belonging not only make learning more engaging but also help the participants better understand how they can co-create a thriving learning environment or workplace. The integration of LARP and RPGs that use these motivators into educational frameworks can prepare learners for real-world challenges in a way that traditional methods cannot replicate.

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Footnotes

Ryan, R. M., & Deci, E. L. (2000). “Self-Determination Theory and the Facilitation of Intrinsic Motivation, Social Development, and Well-Being.” American Psychologist.
Kolb, D. A. (1984). “Experiential Learning: Experience as the Source of Learning and Development.” Prentice-Hall.
Vygotsky, L. (1978). “Mind in Society: The Development of Higher Psychological Processes.” Harvard University Press.
Bowman, S. L. (2010). “The Functions of Role-Playing Games: How Participants Create Community, Solve Problems and Explore Identity.” McFarland & Company.

Guardian Adventures provides LARP and game consulting and program development for museum and science centers, summer camps, amusement & attraction industries, and more.

Live Action Role Playing (LARP) offers a unique blend of role-playing, improvisational theater, and sometimes combat simulation. Learning how to LARP might feel intimidating at first. So here’s an expanded guide to help you dive into the world prepared for adventure and making the most of your experience.

Step 1: Research Different LARPs

Explore Genres: Fantasy, sci-fi, horror, post apocalyptic, superhero, spy, futuristic, or historical – pick a genre that captivates you and feeds your imagination.
Age Range: Some LARPs are for kids and/or teens, and some are for adults. Some allow families. Find the environment that is best for you and any companions who go with you.
Find a Local Game: Use LARPing.org. Facebook, search the web for “LARP near me” or local gaming forums to locate nearby games.
Start a LARP:If there are no LARPs near you, investigate starting your own LARP and invite friends. But first try out a few LARPs if possible so that you can get an idea of how to run a LARP.
Community Insight: Join online forums or social media groups dedicated to LARPing to get insights and advice from experienced LARPers. Some of them will even do a local meetup at a park or restaurant to practice boffer (foam padded weapons) fighting or chat about the game.
Event Types: Learn about different event types – from just hours long to one-day adventures, weekend-long, or even summer long campaigns at LARP summer camps.

Step 2: Understand the Rules

Game Mechanics: Each LARP has unique rules; some may focus on combat, while others emphasize story. Some have a short rule book and others have expansive rules for covering a wide range of interactions.
Safety Guidelines: Familiarize yourself with safety protocols, especially for combat LARPs. Know the safety calls (EG. Calling “HALT!” may cause everyone in ear shot to stop their actions and pay attention to the person who may be in danger or is injured).
Character Restrictions: Most games have rules and guides about character creation – learn these to build a character that fits your preferred type of interaction and fits the theme of the LARP.
Conflict Resolution: Understand how conflicts (in-game and interpersonal) are resolved. Some use boffer weapons or NERF blaster type projectiles, and some use printed cards or even rock-paper-scissors. Be sure to find out what types of weapons are allowed, if any, and the build requirements for those that are handmade.

Step 3: Create Your Character

Character Concept: Take the time to write out your character’s backstory, personality, and goals – try to incorporate elements from the game ethos or history.
Costume and Props: Assemble your costume, accessories, and gear. DIY costumes can be both affordable and creative – especially if you visit thrift stores and look for used items online. Check to make sure that any props you bring into the game are acceptable and not in conflict with the safety rules (EG Many LARPs prohibit the carrying of glass props) or the storyline.
Character Development: Consider how your character interacts with the world and other characters. Figure out their unique background and perspective. Ask yourself questions about what has shaped this character. A good exercise for this was designed by Caro Murphy which can help you get a more detailed understanding of your character:
- Describe a moment of awe that your character has experienced
- Describe a moment of deep gratitude your character has experienced
- Describe a moment of intimacy your character has experienced
Alignment and Motivation: Decide your character’s moral alignment and motivations for a deeper role-playing experience. Are they power hungry? Are they driven by a sense of justice or perhaps seeking vengeance? Are they on a quest bestowed upon them by their family? What will they stop at (if anything) to achieve their objective?

Step 4: Prepare for Role-Playing

Practice Improvisation: Improv skills are important for reacting in character (assuming you are playing a character different than yourself). Being able to come up with a response that suits the kind of character you wish to portray can help make your character believable.
Understand the Setting: Know the world your character inhabits for better role-play experiences. Most LARPs have a well developed ethos about the history, politics, and legends of the world. Learning about these can help you look like you have been in the world for a while.
Body Language: Work on non-verbal cues that fit your character, like a warrior’s confident stance or a wizard’s contemplative gestures. Try out body language you don’t typically use and see what it feels like.
Emotional Responses: Consider how your character would react emotionally in different scenarios. These can change depending on your character’s motivations or history. Are they cool headed or do they have a short fuse? How do they express appreciation? What are they afraid of and how does fear show up on them?
Conflict Handling: Think about how your character would handle conflicts – are they diplomatic? Is intimidation their go-to? Or are they conflict avoidant? Maybe they are a mix of all three, depending on the situation?
Special Skills: Are you skilled at music or storytelling in real life? Perhaps you can bring those skills into the LARP as a charismatic bard, practice telling stories, singing, or playing an instrument in character.

Step 5: Engage in the Game

Participate Actively: Explore, interact with others, and engage with the story. Embrace the awkward feelings that might arise and know that everyone is just playing pretend. It’s not you… it’s your character.
Respect Boundaries: Maintain respect for personal and physical limits of the other players and staff. Know the boundary rules (such as asking permission to touch someone or if only verbal search statements are permitted) and honor them. This helps to create a safe game environment for all.
Teamwork and Alliances: Form alliances or work in teams for a richer experience. The other players can provide valuable information about the current plot lines and also help your character achieve their goals.
Explore Subplots: Engage in smaller side stories that your character would be interested in. Subplots can sometimes become much bigger plots if more players become involved. Depending on the game, subplots can sometimes be customized to individual players or groups of players and their backstory or interests.
Problem Solving: Use your character’s skills and wits to solve in-game puzzles or challenges. Even simple puzzles can sometimes lead to important clues about larger plots.
Adapt and Evolve: Be ready to adapt your character’s actions and goals as the story unfolds. We all change as people… so do our characters. Let your character serve your curiosity.
Participate in Debriefs: Some LARPs run active debrief sessions to help players and staff talk out what they experienced and what it means to their character – as well as to them as a person. Differentiating between these two can help understand “bleed” which is a term that describes when in-game experiences can have an emotional impact on your out-of-game life. The more immersive the LARP, the more likely that bleed can occur. Journaling is also a good exercise for understanding bleed and whether the experience has had a positive or negative impact on your life outside of the game.

The most important part to remember about how to LARP is that it’s about enjoying a shared narrative experience. Don’t stress about perfection; focus on immersing yourself in your character and the world to the degree that you are comfortable. As you gain experience, your confidence and enjoyment will naturally grow.

Guardian Adventures provides LARP and game consulting and program development for museum and science centers, summer camps, amusement & attraction industries, and more.

Live Action Role Playing (LARP) tailored for children requires a cohort of staff members who are not just guides but also imaginers, educators, and guardians of what can possibly be a transformative experience. The success of a LARP hinges on the team behind it—those who can turn a simple game into a rich, educational narrative. Below are the ideal qualities your staff members should possess and the training necessary to prepare them for the unique challenges of a children’s LARP.

Desirable Attributes in LARP Staff

The first attribute to seek in potential staff members is a genuine enthusiasm for role-playing and storytelling. Enthusiastic guides can make the difference between a memorable LARP and a forgettable game. Consider a candidate who lights up when discussing their favorite storybook or who has a penchant for dramatic flair—this natural inclination towards storytelling can keep children captivated.

Secondly, experience with children is invaluable. A candidate who previously worked as a summer camp counselor, where they orchestrated group activities and mediated the occasional squabble. This is a person who knows how to communicate at a child’s level and maintain engagement, even with a diverse group. We have a saying that a person who can work with kids, also knows how to work with adults. But not necessarily the other way around.

The ability to think on your feet is another important skill – improvisation skills are a must. Imagine a scenario where the planned story takes a turn due to the unpredictable input of a child. A staff member skilled in improvisation can seamlessly weave this input into the narrative, enriching the experience and even creating a sense of agency for the child.

Patience and adaptability are non-negotiable. Children’s energy levels and attention spans can be highly variable. A staff member must remain patient and adaptable, able to switch from a high energy outdoor chase scene to a quiet indoor puzzle-solving session as the situation demands.

Lastly, a deep understanding of safety and boundaries is critical. LARP activities should be fun but never at the expense of safety. An ideal candidate is someone who can assertively but kindly set clear rules and boundaries without dampening the adventurous spirit of the game.

Experience to Look for in Candidates

When looking for the right candidates, a background in education or child development can be a significant asset. These individuals bring an understanding of educational pedagogies that can be leveraged to create learning moments within the LARP. For example, a candidate with a background in science education may expertly weave in a lesson on ecology while the children are on a quest through the “enchanted forest.”

Theatrical or performance experience can also be extremely beneficial. Those who have stood on a stage know how to command an audience’s attention and can make a scripted role feel alive. They can don a costume and not just play a part but become it, convincing the children of the reality of the world they’ve entered.

With the above in mind, we have found that applicants who have a degree in Theater Education are the best candidates. They tend to have experience working with children, improv skills for theater, and knowledge on how to integrate education into the experience.

Having a current or event past first-aid certification or the willingness to obtain it is another practical requirement. Accidents, though rare and minor, can happen, and having staff on hand who can provide immediate care is essential.

Experience in roleplaying games or LARPing can be beneficial for understanding concepts like story arcs and solid game play. However, we have found that this is only applicable if the candidate has sufficient experience playing with children in the age demographic of the LARP you are seeking to create. See above about experience working with adults is not the same as experience working with kids.

Training Strategies for LARP Staff

Training should begin with a child-centric approach, ensuring that staff are equipped to create an environment where every child feels valued. For instance, role-playing exercises during training can prepare staff for the wide array of questions and scenarios they might face, from a shy child reluctant to participate to an overzealous participant who tries to dominate the play.

A comprehensive safety and emergency response training program is also vital. This training should cover everything from basic first aid to conflict resolution, with regular role-playing drills to ensure that all staff members know how to respond swiftly and effectively in various situations.

Character and story development workshops can serve as a creative incubator for staff, allowing them to craft compelling characters and plots. Staff could, for example, be tasked with developing backstories for their characters that weave educational elements into the lore of the LARP world.

Effective behavior management is another crucial aspect of training. Staff should be equipped with strategies to manage large groups of children, maintaining engagement and focus without stifling fun. They should learn to recognize signs of distress or exclusion among participants and intervene in a manner that supports positive group dynamics.

Finally, inclusivity and sensitivity training is necessary to ensure all children, regardless of their background or abilities, can enjoy the LARP to its fullest. Staff should be trained to be mindful of cultural sensitivities, to support children with special needs, and to foster an atmosphere of acceptance and encouragement.

It may sound like a lot to consider when you are hiring people for a LARP for children. But the right staff can make such a difference in the experience and the memories of the participants. Truly interactive, person-to-person activities are the most ripe for a transformative experience while reminding us of the importance of connecting with each other.

can lay a solid foundation for a successful and memorable event, while also optimizing resources and minimizing risks.

Guardian Adventures provides consulting and program development for museum and science centers, summer camps, amusement & attraction industries, and more.

The amusement park industry thrives on providing guests with immersive experiences, thrilling rides, and memorable moments. In an age where interactive entertainment is highly valued, the inclusion of Live-Action Role-Playing (LARP) into your amusement park environment presents an opportunity to revolutionize guest engagement. LARPing involves participants physically and emotionally embodying characters in a fictional setting, and when integrated into an amusement park, it can create a unique, story-driven adventure that resonates on a personal level with each visitor. And the beauty of a LARP is that it encompasses a very wide budget range from free to as much as you want to invest for a unique and highly theatrical environment.

Enhanced Immersion

At its core, LARPing is about stepping into another character’s shoes and experiencing a world through their eyes. Amusement parks already transport guests to fantastical realms; adding LARP elements would deepen the level of immersion. Guests could become heroes in a medieval fantasy, survivors in a post-apocalyptic landscape, or rebels in a futuristic dystopia. This kind of active participation in a park’s narrative allows for an experience that is not just seen and felt but lived.

Personalization of Experience

One of the most significant advantages of incorporating LARP into amusement parks is the personalization it offers. Every guest can have a unique story that unfolds based on their decisions and interactions within the park. This level of personalization can lead to increased guest satisfaction and repeat visitation as guests return to explore different character paths and story outcomes.

Encouraging Repeat Visits

With LARP scenarios, the story can evolve on a scheduled basis, encouraging guests to return as often as you want, to see how the plot has progressed. Unlike static rides, which may offer limited replay value, a LARP experience can be different each time, depending on the evolving narrative and the guests’ interactions with the environment and other characters.

Community and Social Interaction

LARPs naturally foster a sense of community and social interaction. Guests are encouraged to work together to overcome challenges or to compete in friendly rivalry. This social aspect can create a loyal fanbase that returns regularly and engages with the park year-round, including participation in online forums and social media groups, keeping the amusement park top of mind even during the off-season.

Educational Opportunities

LARP in an amusement park can also be educational. Historical LARPs, for example, can immerse guests in different time periods, teaching them about the culture, technology, and lifestyles of the past in an engaging and interactive way. STEM LARPs can inspire participants to learn about physics, biology, and other subjects in order to “power up” their character or solve story puzzles. This blending of education and LARP, often referred to as “EduLARP,” can appeal to schools and educational groups, expanding the park’s audience.

Marketing and Branding

The stories created through LARPing can be used in marketing campaigns, offering potential visitors a glimpse of the adventures that await. User-generated content, such as videos and photos of LARP experiences, can serve as powerful testimonials and organic advertising for the park. It also serves as a strong recruiting tool for highly creative staff who crave the idea of “playing pretend”.

Operational Considerations

Safety and Training

Implementing LARP in an amusement park will require careful planning, particularly regarding safety and staff training. Staff members would need to be trained as adventure guides, skilled in guiding the experience without breaking immersion and ensuring that all interactions remain safe and enjoyable for everyone involved. Staff with a background in improvisational acting are perfect candidates as LARP guides.

Technology Integration

Technology can enhance the LARP experience through apps that track story progress, offer quests, or provide AR (Augmented Reality) to reveal hidden elements in the park. This integration can create a seamless blend of physical and digital play. However, another strong point about a LARP is that it stands on its own without any tech integration. This allows your park to have “unplugged” experiences that many parents see as an important part of their children’s entertainment.

Design and Theming

The design and theming of the park will be crucial. Environments need to be versatile and richly detailed to support various narratives. Props, costumes, and signage will all contribute to the authenticity and depth of the LARP experience. However, a well written LARP requires very little investment in equipment and environment if the story works within the space occupied and the character roles and plot utilize the resources that are currently available. One of the best attributes of a LARP is its ability to adapt to your park’s current assets.

Integrating a LARP into your amusement park represents a bold step forward in the evolution of guest engagement. This innovative approach caters to a growing demand for interactive and personalized entertainment, offering a compelling reason for guests to not only visit but become part of the amusement park’s living, breathing world. As parks continue to seek new ways to captivate audiences, LARP stands out as a promising frontier that can redefine the very concept of entertainment while encouraging engagement between their patrons and staff and not just the patrons and your physical assets.

Guardian Adventures provides consulting and program development for museum and science centers, summer camps, amusement & attraction industries, and more.

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Summer camps create memories and friendships that last a lifetime, but staying engaged with campers during the school year can be a challenge. With the increasing accessibility of online platforms, Live Action Role-Playing (LARP) can be a powerful tool to keep the camp spirit alive and ensure return registrations. Here’s how to use online LARP to enhance camper retention during the school year.

What is Online LARP?

Online LARP is an adaptation of traditional Live Action Role-Playing to virtual platforms (like Zoom). Participants assume characters’ roles and interact in a digital environment, guided by a storyline or set of objectives. While lacking the physical aspect of traditional LARP, online versions offer unique advantages like:

Accessibility for some people with disabilities
Reaching your geographically dispersed campers
Introducing new campers to returning campers before summer begins
Requires very little space
Largely weather-proof

Why Use Online LARP for Camp Retention?

Maintain Engagement: LARP is an interactive and fun way to keep campers involved, reminding them of their positive camp experiences.
Strengthen Bonds: Campers reconnect with their friends, fostering lasting relationships and engaged in Social Emotional Learning (SEL).
Promote Continuous Learning: Camps with an educational component can use an online educational LARP, or EduLARP to reinforce and build upon concepts introduced during summer sessions.

Steps to Implement Online LARP for Camp Retention

Set Clear Objectives: Understand your goals. Are you aiming to strengthen community ties, reinforce lessons from camp, or introduce new camp themes for the next year?
Choose the Right Platform: There are several online platforms suitable for LARP, such as Zoom, Google Meet, Skype, and more. Your choice will depend on the complexity of your game and the age group of your participants.
Design an Engaging Storyline: The story should resonate with camp themes or values. For instance, if your camp focuses on science, a LARP session could revolve around solving a fictional scientific mystery.
Schedule Regular Sessions: Consistency is key. Regularly scheduled sessions, be it monthly or quarterly, will give campers something to look forward to and ensure sustained engagement.
Incorporate Feedback: Allow campers to influence the story’s direction or provide feedback on gameplay. This empowers them and ensures the LARP remains relevant to their interests.
Promote and Remind: Use email newsletters, social media, and other channels to keep campers informed about upcoming online LARP events.

Best Practices for a Successful Online LARP Session

Design or Find a System: You can either make your own online LARP system for navigating your adventures, or you can take our free online course which uses the Universal Game System Lite and has documentation on how to run not only an in-person LARP, but also an Online LARP. (Yes, it’s free and no strings attached – we are trying to make LARP more accessible and wide spread)
Moderate: Ensure there’s a skilled moderator or game master to guide the story, resolve conflicts, and keep the game flowing smoothly.
Incorporate Multimedia: Use videos, music, images, backdrops, props, and even dress in a costume or use masks to enhance the virtual environment and make the experience more immersive. Encourage your campers to also use (appropriate) costumes and backdrops.
Safety First: Especially with younger campers, ensure that all online interactions are safe. Set ground rules, use secure platforms, and monitor discussions.
Stay Inclusive: Make sure every camper, regardless of their technological proficiency, can participate. We highly recommend offering tutorials or tech support ahead of sessions.
Follow-Up: After a session, send out a recap, highlight memorable moments, and tease the next adventure to keep the excitement alive.

In the digital age, the end of summer doesn’t mean the end of camp camaraderie. By leveraging online LARP sessions during the school year, camps can maintain and even boost engagement, ensuring campers eagerly return year after year. It’s not just about retention; it’s about enriching the camp experience and making memories that bridge the gap between summers.

Guardian Adventures provide consulting and a free LARP for afterschool programs, summer camps, amusement & attraction industries, and more.

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