Is Thirty-Six Too Old to Try LARPing for the First Time?
No, thirty-six is not too old to try Live Action Role-Playing (LARP) for the first time!
Live Action Role-Playing allows you to immerse yourself in various storylines and scenarios, meeting new friends, exploring your creativity, and enjoying immersive storytelling. LARPing is a hobby enjoyed by people of all ages, and the fun is typically not limited by your age. Many who start later in life often find it a refreshing and engaging experience.
Is LARP Expensive?
As for costs, LARPing expenses can vary widely depending on several factors:
Costumes and Gear
Based on the LARP event's theme, you might need specific costumes or props. While some participants might want to make their own costumes or find affordable options at thrift stores, others might purchase them from specialized stores. The level of detail and quality of your gear can significantly impact the cost.
Event Fees
Many LARP events charge a fee for participation. This cost can range from a small amount to several hundred dollars, depending on the size and scale of the event. Regular events might have lower fees, while more elaborate and intensive events tend to have higher costs.
Travel Expenses
If the LARP event is held in a different location, consider the cost of travel and accommodation. Long-distance travel can add up quickly, especially if you need to stay for multiple days. Balancing travel expenses with the event cost is essential for budgeting purposes.
Supplies
You might also need to buy additional supplies such as weapons (e.g., foam swords), makeup, or other accessories. These items can range in price from affordable to quite expensive, depending on the quality and detail you desire.
Overall, LARPing can be as budget-friendly or as expensive as you choose depending on how much you want to invest in your gear and experiences. Starting small and gradually building your kit is a common approach and can help you stay within your budget.
Personal Experience
My journey with LARPing began around 2015 when a work colleague started LARPing and invited me along. Initially, I thought it was just a quirky activity for the physically active and nerdy. However, during a lockdown in 2020, after four months of isolation, I decided to attend an invite and discovered that being physically unfit could be a challenge. Yet, over nine months of LARPing, I've met dozens of new friends and rekindled an interest in historical music and instruments. Perhaps most importantly, LARPing has helped me reconnect with hobbies and social activities that I had neglected due to work and financial responsibilities.
Cost Considerations
LARP can be expensive if you want to be a knight with real armor. However, creativity can significantly lower the cost. If you're inclined to make your own clothes, it can be both cheaper and a fun hobby. Over 6 months, I managed to outfit myself for around $1000.
Others might choose to invest more, especially in significant events or with complex gear. Some people spend thousands on getting themselves outfitted like an extra from "Lord of the Rings."
The cost of the games themselves also varies. Some are relatively inexpensive, coming in at around $50, while other events, such as renting a retired naval ship for a weekend, can be pricey.
Some games offer a "trial play" option or a reduced cost if you want to become a non-player character (NPC), essentially playing monsters or other non-human entities. This is a great way to sample the game and determine if you enjoy it before committing to regular play.