I spent a day with LARPERS

[@AnthonyPadilla]

come back next week for *I spent a day with QTCINDERELLA* UNCENSORED ON SPOTIFY ▸ open.spotify.com/show/5aOLuPenneHbhLh05fmkeu

[@killerboss2346]

hi

[@apriloraly4154]

Oki Ty

[@sofiasilice8977]

I cant wait for the Master Event planner QT Cinderella to come on the show

[@Scampcam]

would love to describe Larp to you, Anthony~! Euro larp is SO different!

[@avery6515]

YESSSS, QTCINDERELLA IS NEXT

[@hsisnothere]

i think it’s super admirable to maintain your imagination into adulthood. obviously this is WAY more than that and there are other cool aspects to it but seriously so many of us lose our curiosity and wonder when we get older.

[@Donika691]

yeah we gotta keep that child within alive!

[@Vheone]

If modern day society wasn't so corrupted none of us would have lost that inner child. To be a child just means to be innocent and have a pure soul, once you grow up you lose that, these people have clearly found a way to shut out the bad and embrace what they once where and there's nothing wrong with that at all

[@Donika691]

@@Vheone I may not have ever had the chance to try larping, but it seems like something I would like. I have a big imagination, I don't ever want my inner child to die.

[@hsisnothere]

@@Vheone i think losing your inner child has been a tragedy that has occurred in most people’s lives long before the modern day. i mean… dads used to marry off their teenage daughters to rich dudes for money. young men were sent off to war and saw the most horrible things. it’s admirable at any time in history to retain your spark for life when things have been and still are very f*cked up.

[@Vheone]

@@hsisnothere Yeah in all honesty it used to be a lot worse, I didn't mean to be specific with this modern day but more that we for the first time in history don't have to be at war with each over and hate each over yet we are still so disconnected and raised to believe so many wrong things.

[@virusDETECTED]

I think people who hate LARP could perhaps just be insecure about being discouraged from playing pretend. I know I was. I feel like LARPing is such a strong gateway for people of all ages to get back into play, back into pretend

[@seppyq3672]

I like to play pretend. But the part of LARP I'm completely uninterested in the fighting/battle aspects. But dressing up and just pretending to be someone else with a big group of people doing the same thing would be fun.

[@vietbluecoeur]

@@seppyq3672 Novice LARPer here (just started last year) and I'm pretty sure that a lot of people in this hobby would reassure you this same thing: if that's not what you're interested in, you are under NO obligation to engage in fighting! While it is a very visible part of LARP, the point of LARPing in the first place is to be part of the game's overarching story at large. And just like in real life or most stories, not everyone is going to be interested in having a role as warrior! Non-combat players are equally as important and valued as the combative ones.

[@ohmygodsomeeaan6020]

@@seppyq3672 Plently of larp is completely combat-less! I'm also not interested in combat at all, but there are plenty out there that are entirely roleplay focused. I'd suggest searching up Nordic Larp.

[@lalas181]

@@seppyq3672 The VTM LARP I go to seems like it'd be right up your alley. Same with the LARPs events at some anime conventions. No whacking people with big foam swords, just roleplay, rock paper scissors skill checks, and sometimes scheming. Maybe check to see if there's a VTM LARP in your area?

[@en2p187]

I dont think I've ever play pretended

[@camisthejester]

I got to larp with Raquel a few years back in Denmark at a vampire game - she’s so sweet and it’s so nice to have a representative like her for our community❤️

[@RaquelSkellington]

Ahh Cam!! Thank you so so much! you're the sweetest! I still remember all the scenes we shared, you're awesome and I miss you lots!

[@camisthejester]

@@RaquelSkellington *big vampy hugs from Denmark*

[@loverrlee]

She’s really so cool! I loved her whole vibe ✨

[@Hyuttah]

This is happening in Denmark??! Never would've thought that. Denmark seems so tame and boring from my perspective anyway. Well that's cool

[@tublvers]

@@Hyuttah larp is actually quite common in denmark for some reason. i have known quite a handful of people throughout school who would do it as a signed up activity after school, that would take place in different forests all around. we call it rollespil (translates to rolegame or roleplay) its quite common for the younger to do here :)

[@spectrademonica]

Imagine thinking that going outside and interacting with people in real life and touching grass is a worse way to spend your time than being mindlessly addicted to twitter.

[@TeIegram-me---AnthonyPadilla1]

COMPLIMENT OF THE SEASON 🎄🎄 CONGRATULATIONS YOU HAVE BEEN RANDOMLY SELECTED AS THE WINNER OF MY CHRISTMAS GIVEAWAY 🎄🎊🎉 Message me on Telegram ☝️☝️

[@Bullets4Brunch]

Facts

[@joaodefreitas8617]

The worst part is that going out is so hard to see from you guys lately that even larp can look an amazing embassador for going out 😅😅😅 dammm

[@GeonioF1]

They are kinda odd but 500 times better than Twitter liberal nerds

[@jo_eofficial]

Larpers are just very committed cosplayers. VERY COMMITTED. It's pretty cool.

[@wakey4286]

I became a larper before i became a cosplayer, lol

[@zantastic8260]

Cosplay is still faaar different from larp. I did cosplay before larp

[@SunIsLost]

Yea.

[@roxiealphagacha1073]

@@wakey4286 SAME LMAO😅

[@ferelithian]

In Larp you portray a character of your own imagination in cosplay you copy a famous costume. It is very different.

[@TheImagination96]

As a LARPer myself, her speech at the end also brought me to tears. Truly the best part about this hobby is the people and the incredible stories you get to tell. Seriously, if you're even remotely interested, give it a shot! Worst case? It's not for you! What are you waiting for? Be Cringe, Tell Stories, Be Free.

[@Donika691]

I honestly think I would enjoy it (I love creating stories and characters) but I wouldn't have a clue as to how since I live in a small town in the country with not much going on. I have no idea if there is any groups for it here and I'm not in a position to travel for it.

[@mara16121]

It's so true, there really isn't anything to lose by trying it out. My husband had no interest at first, but I told him if you don't like it, put on a white headband (signals out of game at our larp) and enjoy the camping. First weekend is free. He loved it and we went on to be part of plot team a year later. It's such an amazing experience and a chance to try things you might not otherwise do. I'm not comfortable taking charge, but I found myself captain of the town guard (and later by extension in charge of the entire town as the most senior townsperson present) and I know now that when I have to take charge in real life, I can do it. I loved the stories they told here.

[@Donika691]

@@TheImagination96 That's wonderful and would be awesome but only problem is I am shy as heck and right now my main priority is figuring out a job (last one didn't work out) maybe someday I will get up the nerve to look into it and have my work situation figured out. Thank you for the advice though I will remember that.

[@Donika691]

@@himenyx153 Thanks, I hope eventually I will be able to join one.

[@Cryptic62637]

Weirdo 😑

[@Mandalaaxo]

LARPing might look ridiculous to the outside, but they have more courage than a lot of people do to explore the part of themselves that wants to still play pretend, explore their innermost feelings, discover themselves, and not worry about what other people think of them and create a safe space for that to happen.

[@RainMan0]

Tbf, i do not see difference between larpers and actors. Well actors are paid, and we pay to play.

[@Kessik8]

True! Larping helped me a lot getting more comfortable with social interaction as the autistic person I am. I got less anxious and even brave. I am more comfortable with people, and I'm so happy I found cool friends within that hobby of mine

[@Kessik8]

@@RainMan0 I actually have a friend who is an actor and a larper. I think in larp, we choose our role, but in acting, actors have to play what they are given.

[@loyaknow]

I deeply admire anyone that stays true to themselves that much. I love seeing people living their life's outside the bounds of what society deems as "acceptable"

[@C0nnor-Aliv3]

This really just sounds like DND in real life mixed with theatre and it sounds cool as f*ck Edit- holy s*it how did this get 2k likes?!

[@erikarene995]

Yeah that's a pretty good summary as a dnd and theatre kid turned larper!

[@g_reezzy]

You should look at local groups in your area!

[@actually_kira]

Cool as fuck is definitely a good description.

[@sarahiliffmcgill2820]

That is it!!! Come play with us!!! Alliance larp is sooooooo fun!!

[@beefrd]

It can be like that!!! Find a local group and try it out!!

[@ozziepants4963]

The fact that Raquel thought she couldn't be beautiful when she's actually *stunning* made me so sad to hear. I'm so glad she's been able to work past that through larping.

[@lickfan45]

As a LARPer myself, it's nice to see people not judging our hobby! I like to tell people: "You know dungeons and dragons? It's similar, but we dress and play our own character."

[@Beanie26]

I try to describe it as a mix of dnd and camping

[@Silenyx]

I really don't get why people hate cosplayers/LARPers. You're telling me that you wouldn't want to dress up as your favorite character, adapt their personality?

[@AdamMclardy]

I think it’s possibly a lot of American style LARP looks lame from the outside, everyone inside understands what’s going on but if you don’t all the damage calls and the “lighting bolt” video leaves a different impression

[@jBread28]

I mean, not really.

[@RosheenQuynh]

People find it weird to be anything other than yourself, apparently. Which I don't understand. Did these people just... not play House as a kid or something?

[@RosheenQuynh]

@@jBread28 Might I ask why?

[@jBread28]

@@RosheenQuynh Idk, I just don't want to? Sure we'd play a lot of games like that when I was little, but almost all as our own original characters, not ones from shows, games etc. No hate to these people btw, I don't really have any idea about this debate and don't want to pick a side either way.

[@pandapuffzee8255]

There is such a huge number of soldiers or ex military in LARP. Its such a good place to heal honestly.

[@aceilynbrown9204]

Gosh, every time I listen to Tab speak I'm just so happy he's a part of our community. After talking with him at Alliance's last national event, I've realized just how much he loves LARP and makes it cool. Love you Alliance Crossroads

[@audoldends6799]

Love from Denver, Vegas!

[@MrVlonk]

As a larper from Europe I can say that there is more to larping than "american freeform larps"! There are mini larps that can easily be done at a party, with no costumes and little prep involved, with a runtime of a few hours. There are events that are akin to episodes of Downton Abbey, Battlestar Galactica, Cyberpunkt 2077, a WW1 setting, Westworld and many more that I have attended personally over the last few years. I larped on a ship, in bunkers, in a mine, an abandonded factory, green fields and forrests, mansions, monasteries and castles. Every conceivable genre is present, from Fantasy over Scifi, Cyberpunk, Post Apocalyptic to all kinds of other utopias/dystopias. There are serious games as well as silly ones. There are events that run for a week while others run for a day or less. There are blackbox larps that involve no costuming. There is also larping involving period appropriate costumes where you feel you just jumped through the TV into the show. Some of the larposphere is derived from Dungeons and Dragons, some part of it is completely detached from the gaming roots and is much much closer to improv theatre and complex social simulations. There are long running campaigns as well as one-shot events. There are events ranging from 5 participants to over a 1.000. Larp is a VERY diverse field and if you are interested in it (yet do not like some elements of what you see) there is a GOOD CHANCE what you are looking for exists somewhere else in the Hobby!

[@Kessik8]

I only play fantasy medieval larp in Germany, but I can second this. Some of my larp friends play post-apocalyptic larp, too. It is so diverse but the people passionate for it are always willing to help you get in it.

[@TheSarakania]

I was looking for that comment! I was at a Harry Potter inspired larp in a actual castle, where I played a student at a collage for witchcraft and wizardry. Another time I was at a Downton Abbey inspired Larp, that took place in a beautiful manson. It was very imersive. Those kind of Larps are great for people, who are not that interested in the battle part of Larps, but more the improvisation & the characters relationships. It really is a great experience and I would recommand to try it out. :D

[@fightvale57]

This is a great comment

[@fightvale57]

@@TheSarakania this sounds so awesome

[@MrVlonk]

@@DescendingIntoChaos You have the outrageous luck to live in Spain, one of the most active communities when it comes to creative, emotional intensive blockbuster larps! I am from Germany and fly there all the time, because the spanish larps are kinda amazing :D I made another post a few minutes ago but it seems it got deleted for reasons I don't understand , so this is the second repost, my apologies There are at least 3 organizers in Spain I know of who will welcome you with open arms. Their names are NotOnlyLarp Efimeral Larp and "Our last year" Larp. I am writing less and less here, because my posts get auto deleted for some reason. There is a very good chance they will welcome you with open arms and help you along on your journey into our hobby. Have fun!

[@DerFrownmacher]

"Went from wanting to win to wanting to make winners." Boffers ain't my thing but Tab hit the nail on the head with that one, very few feelings compare to a bunch of people telling you your event was the coolest thing they've done.

[@liesdeschutter6220]

I'm a LARPer with autism. I use LARP to not only learn about myself but experiment with what kind of character traits I would like to have (more) and to learn more about social interaction in a safe environment. I can not express how much it has taught me over the years. Now I even play a mob enforcer in a socio-political LARP setting (Vampire the Masquerade for anyone who is interested). It's very energy intense, but so much fun to do. P.S.: English isn't my first language, I'm sorry for any mistakes and if you have questions, please do ask.

[@GallowglassAxe]

In the couple of groups I regularly play with there is quite a few people on the spectrum. What you say is very true for them as well.

[@melryan7603]

Omg! I'm an autistic larper for 10+ years, and my experience is very similar to yours! Each character I've ever played started as a caricature of personality traits I wanted to feel more comfortable in. I started out socially anxious and afraid of conflict, but I've played characters who were aggressive, confident, outspoken, a leader, a social butterfly, etc. and now I can call on all of those traits in my real life. LARPing is how learned the skills to be the best version of me. :) It's nice to hear that I'm not alone in what I get out of it. ❤

[@sarahiliffmcgill2820]

Hey! I am a larper with Tab! It’s so fun! Tab makes cute videos of our game. It’s improv theater/storytelling/yard games/camping and having so much fun! I found some of the most amazing people in this game! I’m not sure who Anthony is - but he seems really nice - if anyone wants to try larp I highly suggest Alliance Larp! It is a lot of storytelling! Also costumes are so fun! It’s Halloween over and over!

[@siennaonearth3256]

I'm a larper too, and I have the same last name as you, so weird.😂

[@yusufgazi7]

​@@siennaonearth3256 Jimmy McGill

[@j00nsang]

Tab looked like he had a lot of emotion and passion for LARP, how inclusive it could be, especially in tough gender ruled areas in the US. I've been enjoying these episodes. Good work Anthony and staff!

[@Starfallen12]

Tab is an amazing person

[@audoldends6799]

Tab is the coolest guy

[@the.friday.knight]

Raquel deserves every ounce of praise that she received in this video. My experiences with LARP, and in no small part her roles within them, have helped me define and strengthen myself in ways nothing ever has. Three years since my first, and I am ever more confident in my leadership, queerness, morals, and identity. I wish you the world, Raquel. You deserve it :)

[@RaquelSkellington]

Omg queen thank you so much 😭😭💖

[@ACommonSpring]

If anyone is ever unsure if they'd like it, check out a murder mystery party. It's basically a contained, one night, socially acceptable(eye roll, but actually) LARP and it's a great crash course to see if you suit it! I love LARPing but don't have the time, so my friend group just does a murder mystery once a year.

[@morriganrose7303]

eeeek that sounds so fun

[@kerolokerokerolo]

do you do it like thematically? Maybe like middle age themed? or cyberpunk?

[@ACommonSpring]

@kerolokerokerolo We only do themes! We've done 1920s, Sci-Fi in a StarWars-esque setting, and a Game of Thrones-esque one. Star Wars was the last and the host even rented a kitchen space to make us a Cantina so we had people playing waitresses, chefs, all in various alien garb, serving real food styled to look like something out of science fiction aha. The themes keep it* fresh for us, and since we do it once a year we have a whole year to get a big event together, plan our costumes out. The month before we get an outline of our character to practice our cadence, learn our friends/foes and internal motivations, get to immerse ourselves in the world, then the night of we get a sheet of our objectives and then away we go!

[@lightninblue819]

@@ACommonSpring That sounds sick! Just having something to look forward to like that can be a huge motivator in everyday life.

[@Faeith]

I grew up in the LARP community since I was 6 years old, it’s so beautiful to see Anthony giving our community recognition!! We are all kids on the inside and we shouldn’t judge eachother for having fun. If you love fantasy, dressing up as a game or book character, I would HIGHLY suggest looking into finding a community nearby, we all love and accept eachother! it’s so much fun :3

[@madiskruusmann302]

I used to larp with my neighbors when I was younger. I still have the big hammer that I used to fight. It used to be as tall as me. We fought with hammers, axes, swords and spears. It was cool as hell. My neighbors told me a story where their older brother went to a larp event, fell in a hole somewhere in the forest and then slept the night there under a shield. Climbed out the next day and returned to camp. Edit: we had templars and then some random bandits/soldiers. I lived in a big apartment complex, so we would walk around the halls and eventually meet. There is nothing more epic than 2 groups of shielded and armed kids runnings into- and bashing the living hell out of each other. Sometimes you wish you never grew up. Edit 2: We didn't play with the "2 normal damage, 5 normal damage" and all that stuff. We just counted our hits and when you got hit 3 times you were dead.

[@Mandalaaxo]

Is only we could still maintain our childhood enthusiasm for play. I used to LARP with my best friend and sometimes my sister. But we played an elaborate drama. Every day after school (and this was middle school, so not like preschool or anything) we'd continue our story. I was the huge dork, so it was me always trying to get everyone else to do these things with me. And when I got older, I would just solitary LARP because everyone else grew out if it. I would still continue to do these things as an adult. I worked at a law school that was in an old hotel in St Petersburg Florida and on my lunch breaks, I would LARP and wander around the hotel, finding places to hide. Always been a weirdo ... and I mean that in a respectful way towards myself 🤣 So I've always had empathy for the LARPers lol

[@clarab325]

i don't know much about LARP and i was not expecting it, but their words (especially Tab's) really touched me. it is so cool that something which appears to be simple fun can mean so much for people and really help them in all aspects of their life dare i say this might be one of my favorite 'i spent the day with' videos

[@Kessik8]

Thanks for taking a look at larp without judgement. It helped me with my Autism a lot. I get to practice social interaction with less anxiety because consequences end when play is ending. I'm braver and more comfortable with people after larping for about 5 years now.

[@audoldends6799]

If you're interested look up Alliance larp in your area! Come fight cursed trees and kobolds with us!!!

[@clarab325]

@@Kessik8 that's so cool! that sounds very helpful indeed, i'm happy to hear it helped you that way :)

[@clarab325]

@@audoldends6799 sadly i don't live in the US but might look up if there's anything similar close to where i live cuz i'd definitely be up to trying it!

[@LoreEclectic]

I remember as younger there was a group of teenagers at the park larping and I climbed the jungle gym to watch them. One of my friends was like "omg so lame" and I'm standing there absolutely enchanted by these goofy lil teens and their foam swords

[@diegomesadiez]

I love how Tab is so passionate about his games

[@ShesAaRebel]

I've just been getting into DnD this past year, and have played a few games with friends, including DM'ing a one-shot. What Tab described when he talked about that beginner couple, and letting them win, is called "Rule of Cool". When it thematically makes sense, as well as for the sake of having fun, the rules can be changed. I did that for the group of friends I DM'd for, and they had no idea. Seeing them light up and cheer at their victory made me feel like I won the game. Especially since the person who got the killing blow was a first time player.

[@MeU841]

I’d try it. Life’s too short to act like you’re better than someone because of their hobbies.

[@AdamMclardy]

It’s SO good. Literally every single one of my friends are LARPers these days

[@lauriepavero2255]

I worked with Zak several years ago at a summer job and they are one of the most creative and funny people I've ever met.

[@clairebenike5371]

Larp has been one of the best things to be a part of the last 12 years. Its let me meet some of my best friends and discover more about myself than I would of ever known. Glad to see Tab and Alliance represented.

[@jaymorrison2419]

Yep! Tab is a Nero Hero he is so old.

[@proudlyprimal]

So glad you decided to highlight the creative and wonderful people of the LARP community! I feel it's a hobby that many people don't understand/don't know a lot about! Much love and thanks from a LARP content creator Anthony!

[@GothelGrigore]

The way tab explained helped me get it. Seems like such a sweet guy that wants people to be themselves.

[@elziion3893]

I work for one of the biggest LARP sword manufacturers and my job used to be customer service. Lots of those customers spent time talking about the experiences they went through and how LARP helped them cope through though times. The experience in LARP is different in each country, but the feeling stays the same. The memories you make as a massive nerd, you will carry your whole life. Don’t hesitate to try it, there are different LARPs for different people. There are beginner friendly LARP out there and the people who organize them are passionate. They just want more nerds. It’s an expensive hobby at times, but you will have fun once you are ready. I also worked with Raquel, can confirm that this girl is the sweetest and she really wants to help everyone to have a great experience, we need more Raquel

[@RaquelSkellington]

Amy YASSS!! 💖💕💕💖💕💖💕💖

[@elziion3893]

Love you my sweet Rocky 😚

[@jaymorrison2419]

As someone who owns a few of your products (and has murdered Tab in the woods with them), everything you said is spot on.

[@eMpty_mEtal]

these are literally just the coolest, most stylish, most mature, fleshed out, self aware people- so freaking impressive

[@Matsuyamasama]

I had never heard of larping before and these three people who came here to explain to us what Larp is and what it means to them, was absolutely so interesting!! I love how wholesome this video feels and I hope that we will never loose this spark of fantasy and imagination we all have inside us. Really their passion is so contagious I actually teared up a bit :’)

[@its_raben]

Same! I never heard of larping, but after this video Im gonna look up more stuff about it ^_^

[@sandylamps]

I highly recommend looking up Momo O'Brien!! She does videos on her Larp experiences :)

[@Kessik8]

I do medieval fantasy larp and I really love it. It helped with my Autism. I practice social interaction in a safe environment. I'm more comfortable with people now. And I am happy to have found the best friends I could imagine within the hobby.

[@MagicApple03]

As a larper...just thank you. Thank you. THIS is Larping. We're all storytellers, we all want that escape and that moment where we're working with people to make something happen. I will be showing this to everyone who questions me on my hobby again. I've made lifelong friends and family, all by dressing up and going on adventures. Memories I will never forget. Thank you

[@purplefry1752]

I've only done one larp, and Raquel was one of the people who went. I unfortunately learned later that the people who ran that larp were problematic and allowed certain things to happen. So if Raquel sees this, I'm sorry for how cringey and awkward I was and how I kept breaking character. I just had no idea what I was doing. To be fair, I was also not a great person around the time I went, so I would love to larp again at the point where I am now as a person. I would preferably like to make my own character next time, haha.

[@RaquelSkellington]

Hey, no worries ❤️ Hope you're doing better 💕

[@purplefry1752]

@Raquel Skellington Thanks, I am. Lotta inner healing these past couple of years. Hope you have a lovely holiday! 💕

[@RainMan0]

@@RaquelSkellington you girl, really embrace the larp spirit. Best of luck in your life.

[@littleregg3164]

​@Raquel Skellington hey I saw you sent this on Facebook, great job!

[@yesterdaydream]

I love that people can be professionals at things I've never imagined being a career.

[@Yooperskepticz]

They're all so intelligent and fun. I love the way Tab spoke about young men and maleness.

[@qualcosadinerd7471]

I'm so happy! I've been playing for 6 years, I take part as a player and organizer mostly in blockbuster nordic larp in Europe. It great to have a big channel like this showing a glimpse of what's in the LARP world ❤️

[@sewerrateternal306]

Larp helped me to grow as a person so much. It's therapy and finding friends (which can be so difficult as an adult) and finding creativity. It made me want to work out more, create more, I've even written songs for my larp group. It's such a wonderful thing with wonderful people and i suggest everyone should try it. I love how it's getting more and more popular and I love this video for helping with that

[@Kessik8]

So true! As autistic person I gained so much self confidence from larp. I get to practice social interaction in a safe environment and I found awesome friends. I'm more brave and comfortable with people after playing for 5 years

[@Mentallymuzz]

I learned how to LARP in 5th grade and it helped me personally discover myself and my sexual and gender identities. It was know as cringe for so so so long but it’s helped me stay alive pretty much. It’s helped me build my confidence and helped me feel able to come out and except the negativity as well as the overwhelming positively. I’m now happily in a relationship with an amazing partner of 2 years. I’m hoping to propose in 2023-2024!!! Wish me luck

[@lalas181]

Best of luck, fellow nerd!!!

[@Kessik8]

Larp gave me so much confidence too, I am autistic and it helped me with social interaction a lot. All the best to you!

[@self-mercy-music-channel]

Good luck! I hope it goes well!

[@ermkayyy]

This is so fun & wholesome & nerdy :) I really just love learning about so many people who live in ways society tends to harshly judge, & I especially love Anthony’s kind and understanding interactions with them!!!

[@selinablue7498]

These people are so sweet. I love hearing someone talk about their passions!

[@RedBlueLabs]

The way TAB explained his business, makes this sound really fun

[@apollolyon]

I love roleplaying in D&D. and as much as I love cosplay and the concept of LARP, I am way too awkward and forgetful to do actual LARP. I have a hard time staying completely in character. Seems fun though!! I could probably be like a random NPC in a bar / inn

[@Silverwing28]

Don't feel discouraged by thinking "you're too awkward". You'd be surprised how many larpers still think that about themselves, even when you would think "they're the best larper I've ever seen!"

[@jaymorrison2419]

I can assure you, as someone who has spent 20 years as an NPC, your not too awkward, your not too forgetful, and you won’t have a hard time staying in character when you need to be. Pick up a boffer, and go hit some nerds. It’s a lot of fun.

[@sandylamps]

The fun part about Larping is that your character can just be you completely!! Also, a lot of the time when you're Larping it's so incredibly immersive that it's completely understandable to forget to stay in character. Plus I'm sure there's a ton of shorter Larps that you can try out if you're nervous :D

[@anoobisshenanigans4800]

I’m part of a larping community and it’s fun seeing the different types of fighting mechanics and how they’re community runs their events

[@MxJanusu]

This is so good, thank you for making this video and for showing your audience more about LARP! It's such a fantastic hobby to be part of, Raquel is a wonderful friend of mine and like she said... it's the people. The people are the most special part.

[@PumpkinSpikey]

I love Raquel's videos. I've known about LARP for years but watching her videos actually giving me the insight and information I was looking for.

[@raymax_1071]

They seem like pretty fun and responsible people. I love adults that know how to have fun, life is too short to be so bitter.

[@_emory]

It’s so nice to see people explain that it’s okay to have fun and do what you enjoy “When they just let go, just a little bit, there’s a chance they will see a person in someone that they saw as a label”

[@fullmetalalchemistem]

Hey Anthony, I just wanted to pop in here to say thank you. I starting watching you in Smosh so many years ago and have started binging your “I spent a day with…” series. I just want you to know how appreciative I am of you and all your work. Keep it up and know that your community is behind you. Love you ❤

[@elderwool6510]

I honestly had no idea what larping was before this video, but it sounds super cool! It's awesome that these people have found a creative outlet that is fulfilling for them

[@loverrlee]

This was cool. I just started getting into DnD and cosplaying my character, and this sounds like an even more interesting version of it. I really love everything Raquel had to say. All her characters are really cool and I love how she explained each one. It’s so sad she thought she was ugly! She is literally so so gorgeous. What a lovely person. 💗💗💗

[@TheManInBush]

I love Tony the Squire Boys lore of having stolen everything he owns and screaming "I have the knees of a 12 y/o boy" as he rushes into battle

[@Blessi85]

anthony always finds the best people to represent the different groups - everyone seems so kind and respectful and also very beautiful

[@shinymist]

Thank you so much for this video! I play Dagorhir, which is a Boffer LARP focused on combat, and I really wish there was better media rep of our games. If you’re looking to get into a boffer LARP, for many games such as Dagorhir, Belegarth, and Amtgard you can just show up to a local practice and someone will help you get started - we are always happy to see more faces on the battlefield!

[@HDGamerofficial]

Man, I hecking love this episode! Seeing the Larpers so happy about something they’re passionate about and showing us their community just puts a huge smile on my face 😁 all the power to ya Larpers and anyone else who’s a part of a community that seems to the general public as “weird” Just be happy and be yourself! 😁😁😁

[@Kessik8]

Thanks a lot. Larping helped a lot with my Autism too! I get to practice social interaction in a safe environment where I found friends and got much more comfortable with people while playing :)

[@HDGamerofficial]

@@Kessik8 that’s so amazing! 👏👏👏

[@GiraffeOverlords]

Tag for some reason resonated with me so hard and each story and each you know thing that they touched on is so impactful and I wish I could see more LARP things as well I love how the community grows each day cuz the passion is so amazing and so vibrant it's like a smile it's contagious

[@letthewookieew1n]

Seeing someone I know talk about a hobby I love in front of so many people in such a positive light validates everything for me.

[@SirenVoyager]

As a larp designer myself, I will refute that new players need to be npcs before they play. I personally would rather my npcs to be experienced players who are good at supporting play of others and delivering my plot the way as intended. If you're new, please don't feel discouraged about jumping in two feet first into a character, but you might need a mentor to guide character creation etc.

[@RaquelSkellington]

agree!

[@SirenVoyager]

@@RaquelSkellington you did a beautiful job at articulating such a broad experience of LARP btw, I felt you really tried to capture the core essences of what drives the communities all over the world

[@Kessik8]

When I was unsure if I would like larp, I was an NPC for two cons, but after I was sure I will like the hobby, I started my character. This was due to financial reasons, as NPC the people organising the larp gave me a costume. As a character, I bought and made my own costumes

[@saul94923]

Dude my first larp event went with a hybrid approach and I really appreciated it. Started the day as an Orc npc who had the one goal of "stirring up trouble at the tavern" I managed to shake down some adventures before getting attacked by a thieves guild. WAS AWESOME. Let me just break that barrier I had as a new player and I hopped into my character a little later that day fully prepared and excited to play!

[@Piecesoftheshadow]

I loved all of them sharing. I really loved listening to Tab just tell stories and share his experiences. My cousin and I larped as kids and as teenagers but didn’t realise that’s what we were doing. It was amazing, but as teens our parents made us feel weird about doing it because they said we were too old and asked when we were going to “stop sword fighting” haha. I wish I had known then that this existed because I would have felt more confident about it and kept doing it. I have social anxiety and could never do this with strangers but it was one of my favorite times of my life just being creative and coming up with stories and characters and ideas with my cousin and acting out those stories.

[@rosieexmisfit]

Anthony does the best interviews, regardless of what kind of people he is talking to. One of the best KZbinrs out there!! ❤️ May I suggest interviewing DnD game masters in 2023?? You could try getting Brennan Lee Mulligan, Matthew Mercer, or Aabria Iyengar (just a few examples). That would be an interview I'd drop everything to watch!!

[@purplishDRE3AMIEEEE]

I’m actually concerningly obsessed with roleplay, I never thought of this. Now I kinda wanna just..

[@KitsunekoOwO]

That was such a great interview! Loved the fighting scenes in-between 😆👌🏻

[@DIJo92788]

This is the best LARP Interview Video that I have ever watched, and it’s only been 5 minutes! I love Tab’s vibe too though! “Any publicity is good publicity.” He’s killing it! ❤❤❤

[@mightyheadcanon4487]

Tab's speech about labels and inner freedom was so beautiful. Love this episode

[@McInHeather]

To me, LARP looks like a mix between cosplay and being an actor but it's improvisation all the time! Looks fun, good on them!

[@mahariwynn1339]

All of this! Larping is an amazing way to get to express oneself without fear of judgement *and* get to have a little fun violence as a treat! I've been wanting to find a group that does stuff that is accessible to people with mobility aids. Even if I only got to go for one weekend, that would be amazing.

[@phoenixjklin]

I'm so jealous of people who have lots of larp games in their area. I'm dying to attend larps one day, but I only have ones in languages I don't know and with themes I'm not interested in happening around me, and it's still a long way to travel. I loved this video. Raquel tearing up at the end got my waterworks flowing as well, haha. Larping seems like such a wonder to be a part of. Thank you Anthony for making this, and for continuously shining a light onto smaller communities of so many different kinds. It's so important and I hope you know how big of a change you're making by bringing attention and educating people about certain things, whether it be genders, sexualities or hobbies, different ways of life or even the less "sunshiny" things like traumatic events or physical and mental conditions that can severely affect people's daily lives. The reason so many people don't get help or find ways of coping is all too often the fact that *they don't know what to do*. They don't know there are other people like them, or people that support them, or that there are legitimate answers to their questions somewhere out there. So just know that your content may very well be the reason for someone getting help, and may very well be the reason behind their life turning around for the better. Much love, Anthony. A masterpiece of a video as always.

[@audoldends6799]

Check out alliance larp and find a chapter in your area!! Lots of our chapters meet at least once a month. Come fight cursed trees and kobolds and krakens with us!

[@tenishaterepo]

As someone that grew up always choosing to play pretends, especially visualizing fight scenes and embodying heroic or villianous traits and characteristics inspired by fighting games and anime and many more! Knowing that there is a community like this out there to express and enhance already existing traits we may feel least comfortable expressing in our society, it is refreshing and relieving it exists! It exists in a way that allows us to be whoever and whatever we want to be, and in a way, means that it’s us tapping into a true, honest, and authentic self. It can be a harsh world where we live, as reality of finances, careers, our social life and circles, and much more areas make us overwhelmed, stagnant, and suppressed. To have a safe space like Larping, is a fun way to step into our creativity, explore and experience ourselves and witness others who want and choose to do the same. It’s not just a game, it’s a lifestyle and an outlet. I hope to go to a Larp event and experience this one day 😊

[@audoldends6799]

Check out alliance larp and find a chapter in your area!! Lots of our chapters meet at least once a month. Come fight cursed trees and kobolds and krakens with us!

[@ravensis]

LARP is like improv theater meets athleticism in really cool clothes. I've met some of the best people there (one of them was in this video!) and have done so many epic things. There's nothing like saving the world on the weekend and showing up to work Monday morning.

[@RainMan0]

I can feel you. We are like actors without audience

[@olivercoulthard5468]

I love how excited everyone is to explain and show off and invite us into their interests 🥺

[@CreativeRed4]

omg being an NPC for a larp game would be so much fun. Combining my love for D&D/fantasy/role-playing and my love for theatre and improv. I would be an awesome shopkeep or townsperson lol

[@ultimatekettlecorn7460]

Anthony: like the dream SMP Interviewee: *suprised pikachu face*

[@josefranco480]

Tab is a rockstar! Big heart. Rock on !

[@mysteriousdicegoblin751]

I did my first and so far only LARP right before the pandemic. Thinking back to that game still brings tears to my eyes because of how much it meant to me at the time. I'd recently lost my dad, and even though my character wasn't going through anything like I was (I made certain of that and went over things with the game master before it started), it still let me safely express and explore a lot of the emotions I was feeling in an adjacent way. Keep in mind, I never once said what was happening in my "real life" to anyone else in the game outside of the game master. For the first time in months, I allowed myself to feel and think about my own needs through the lens of my character. Up until that point, I hadn't been able to cry because I had too many people in my life who needed me stoic, logical, and strong with the current situation. In that LARP, I didn't have to be any of that. I could be the me I wish I was: still logical and strong but also bold with my emotions and open to comfort. I could be selfish. So, when everyone "went back to their time" (it was a time travel LARP), the grief I felt was real for me -and- the character. It was cathartic to work through my feelings in a safe setting that had nothing to do with the real world. I learned so much about myself during that game, even though it wasn't really me (just a version of me). --Also, I know I'm painting this game as super emotional, but I swear the majority of it was my character (an artificer) just causing chaos while trying to discover the origins of magic-producing creatures called snipes. Also, stealing a suitcase and spending a solid hour trying to hide that I did only for the perfect comedic moment of finally opening it right as the elevator door opens to reveal the owner. So um...yeah. Be cringy and try out LARP or D&D. Let yourself just have fun and don't worry about what others think.

[@Sixloveswho]

WOW! What a beautiful episode, Anthony. It almost had me in tears to see how passionate these people are about LARP and how it has changed lives. It must be awesome to have that kind of community at your side.

[@TeIegram-me---AnthonyPadilla1]

Thanks for the comments 🙏 CONGRATULATIONS!!!🎉you have just been selected as one of the lucky winners for my *SUPRISE* **GIFTING* * 🎉⭐🎁 Let's chat on Telegram ☝️☝️☝️☝️*

[@audoldends6799]

Check out alliance larp and find a chapter in your area!! Lots of our chapters meet at least once a month. Come fight cursed trees and kobolds and krakens with us!

[@AmyLimCS]

Wow, I didn't know what larping was before clicking on this video, but it seems really cool and fun! It kinda reminds me of a more elaborate long-term form of improv. It also made me realize that it's also kinda similar to video games, except that it's happening in real life instead of virtually. You are embodying the avatar that you are playing. I really appreciate how vulnerable and honest they were about the personal impact it has had on themselves, their lives, and the larping community. I didn't expect to cry during this video. It's very beautiful and touching.

[@Kessik8]

It's a beautiful hobby that helped me a lot with my Autism. I get to practice social interaction in a safe environment, and I found awesome friends. It made me braver and more comfortable with people. Your description is correct. It is long-term improv.

[@AmyLimCS]

@@Kessik8 Thanks for sharing! I’m glad to hear it helped you and that you also found a supportive environment and community of people 💖

[@Kessik8]

@AmyLimCS thanks a lot :D

[@marisophi]

larp videos are some of my favourites on youtube. theyre long form relaxing content of people having fun in a cool, beautiful or mystic environment, or sometimes just people telling a cool story. i recommend momo obrien and raquel who was featured in this interview.

[@jenk8385]

I grew up in live theatre. Most of my core memories are on the stage. I now play and teach DND to others! I think LARP is so cool, and now I am going to try it as well. I completely agree that in the moment, it's less about who wins, but about the story you create together.

[@audoldends6799]

Check out alliance larp and find a chapter in your area!! Lots of our chapters meet at least once a month. Come fight cursed trees and kobolds and krakens with us!

[@hijodelsoldeoriente]

Always been fascinated by LARP. This video taught me a lot. I may have found it peculiar at first since there no such community exists in my country as far as I know but I've always seen it as performance art like theatre or acting. As an adult, this reminds me that maintaining my child-like fervor and imagination is worth keeping as it gives me the ability to wonder and keep an open mind.despite what the society misconstrue as immaturity.

[@Kessik8]

I Larp in Germany, we also welcome people from the Netherlands and other countries close to us if they try to speak at least a little German.

[@Kessik8]

@black_forest_ ah yes, I've heard about that. Im more at the smaller ones due to my autism. But I'm getting more confident, so I might try out a larger one soon.

[@bigmansmallboy]

Crazy how you got a showrunner in here as well! As a larper, this was a wonderful episode. Real good stuff.

[@jaymorrison2419]

Trust me, playing is fun, but being the guys running that fun is just as rewarding. When you have Tab tell you “That thing? That was awesome, and you made people cry” sticks with you.

[@jw5386]

Tab seems like someone who's done a lot of personal growth.

[@aeonsiege1806]

This feels like one of the most beautiful episodes of this series

[@TeIegram-me---AnthonyPadilla1]

COMPLIMENT OF THE SEASON 🎄🎄 CONGRATULATIONS YOU HAVE BEEN RANDOMLY SELECTED AS THE WINNER OF MY CHRISTMAS GIVEAWAY 🎄🎊🎉 Message me on Telegram ☝️☝️

[@aurora8278]

I love how Anthony never judges but actually gives an environment where everyone can open up and just be themselves. Its really refreshing, honestly.

[@heyahhhnold]

Tab's perspective on the highs and lows of combat and how LARPing can replace the highs and remove the lows was really interesting

[@midogamal7658]

Tab's voice is so soothing, too perfect

[@dinolover6124]

Thanks for doing this video Anthony! Keep up the good work!

[@rainbospud4316]

Tab is gonna make me cry help I am tearing up I just wanna hug him

[@gamejunky6345]

Lifelong LARPER from Europe here, it feels amazing to see the hobby get more traction. Ive been into this hobby since I was a child and it’s helped me so much throughout my life with several things. There’s so much out there, Steampunk, Cyberpunk, fantasy, Vampire: the masquerade (of which I’m an absolute fan) Trust me, its worth the effort.

[@ethanrath4478]

Love playing with you Tab! You represent the Alliance community so well. Looking forward to chatting at the new Chicago Alliance game!

[@TeIegram-me---AnthonyPadilla1]

Thanks for the comments 🙏 CONGRATULATIONS!!!🎉you have just been selected as one of the lucky winners for my *SUPRISE* **GIFTING* * 🎉⭐🎁 Let's chat on Telegram ☝️☝️☝️☝️*

[@seapigoinkoink]

I cannot articulate how accurate this is

[@s33n08]

LARPing is literally so much fun! I‘ve been doing it together with my dad for a couple of years now & throughout the years it has been amazing. You can basically imagine it as DND in real life!

[@yoavbuddy]

GREAT JOB EVERYONE! LOVED IT

[@luanserran4402]

I am always so amazed by how Anthony is empathetic and compreensive about everything. He always tries to understand and indulge into whatever and whoever it is that he is talking to. He never offends or crosses bounderies, yet he is able to explore so much of his guests. Sometimes I'm not even into the subject, but the interview makes me think about it with less prejudice. I am really happy and proud of him.

[@tidusdk4200]

This is by far my favorite episode

[@clairebenike5371]

I larp with people as old as 55 and thats high combat. Its never too late to jump in!

[@Mumblesmcghee69]

Watching this is like watching behind the scenes of someone playing Skyrim and I can’t stop smiling. Its beautiful and I would LOVE to see Anthony go do a weekend in Tennessee with Tab

[@sleepingninjaquiettime]

We had a guy that LARP'd and even though we couldn't stop laughing when he would tell us about his battles we couldn't ask him enough questions, it was and is forever interesting. I also remember watching grown men in real armor battle with blunted weapons and people would really get hurt when I was a kid. I guess a lots changed since the 90's.

[@GHOSTYChoco]

I'm a D&D player and currently in a Pokemon D&D. I LOVE roleplaying as my character Vesper in the game, it's so fun being a different person in a world of a franchise I love. I even bring plushies of my pokemon if I have them to pretend like they are my actual pokemon in the game! I'm not sure if it's larping or not but I just wanted to share my love for roleplaying as a character 😄 (Also if you are curious, my team right now is a starter Munchlax, Espurr and an Eevee I named Napoleon and planning on evolving into either Umbreon, Sylveon or Vaporeon)