I have to be really honest with myself about LARP

I've done some soul searching. The fantasy class that fits me best for DnD or Larp, is a Bard. And I am ready to embrace that. Because nothing else has worked.
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[@heitorp.c.1327]

"I just want to be me somewhere else with swords" This is the purest form of my inner child.

[@cristiaolson7327]

This. This is why all my characters, both in tabletop and in LARP, are basically just me with extra skills and/or gear. Could I play someone different? Yah. I do that all the time for NPC's, including often-recurring ones, when I am DM'ing. But as a player, I just want to be myself, except somewhere else and with swords, a bow, or spells.

[@SethMast-he5xu]

honistly i relly do get it i relly do just want to be myself somewhere else with a sword the werd thing for me is i have one foot in ever bucket so i could be a bard or a shady ranger or a relly cool druid ..........i have the sirvivel skills and the herbel skills and the fighting skills and the archery skills and(in a not illegil way) the rouge skills soooo its difeacult for me to pick one or two or three parts of myself to put in a charichter

[@danielmaher964]

That's a great line, it deserves an ode. Someone else can come up with a better one, but I'll start: Greetings milady I am a hero A mighty hulking chad I fight alone and for myself Believe me I am bad Well not so bad, I am a ranger The guardian of the wild I walk alone, they can't keep up My beard is neatly styled Yes I am styled, a nobleman The wealthiest you've seen I have my pick, you might have luck I'll let you be my queen My lineage notable though wealth be notional A barbarous prince am I What should it be to plund'rers like we To have no means to buy? You are a tempter to this knight Templar My worth my holy blade My chaste'd love for thee alone From boredom you are saved Take pity I am but a nerd A warrior of words I just want to be myself Somewhere else with swords If you'll take pity I'll try hard If not I'll be so sad I'll listen to counsel from wiser heads To be a worthy dad.

[@RebelliousSquirrel]

I'd like to ad, "me somewhere else with swords and magic"

[@SpiderboyN2Jesus]

@@danielmaher964 Bravo! You're certainly a bard!

[@gummybread]

“Mom, Dad... I have a confession, I’m... im a bard”

[@LivingAnachronism]

(Father who is a Paladin): walks away. (Mother who is a Cleric): "Now look, you've upset your father."

[@DH-xw6jp]

The Mage Sister: [faints] The Rogue Brother: [snickers about plundering dragons]

[@zaqzilla1]

You're no longer my son! lol

[@deskgamesix]

No! You're going to be a geologist!

[@nickdeathpool9529]

Hahahahahaha

[@harbl99]

The charismatic theatre-trained guy with the knack for storytelling and the flowing hair is attracted to the Bard archetype. Surely not. Who could have foreseen this? 😆

[@TheCaniblcat]

I can identify with never being satisfied with just one character and having an addiction to making new characters. I have entire folders filled with characters for various games I've never played, just to see what variations I can make.

[@samueltheblonde]

Agreed!

[@sarawahlund223]

There is too many choices

[@darcraven01]

as a published poet i 100% agree with you on not wanting to play a bard because the fear of not meeting expectations. like, yeah, i've written a bunch of poems and have my own book but if im not in the right mindset and am not inspired im not going to be able to just whip out snappy lines, witty comebacks, or rhyme fluently.. but i always feel like if i play a bard people will want me to be suave on the fly.

[@OutlandStation]

Sir, you ARE a Bard. Lean into it. You're telling us only what we've known for ages. You are engaging, interesting, and entertaining. Put that to work. Much love!

[@themanlymango]

You've really highlighted two issues that I see so commonly. First is when people approach character creation from a "stats" or "mechanical" standpoint and then struggle to connect to the actual "character"; this class-first approach CAN work perfectly fine, some people prefer it, especially when you're excited about a concept, but for some people it is much more effective to figure out the vibe of a character and then explore what mechanics best allow you to express them. Second is how often a "support" archetype is underrated; everyone wants to feel like they are unique, exciting, a hero, an overtly "impressive" character, because we're so often presented with a relatively limited style of protagonist, but the characters who fit into the archetype of secondary/supporting roles are actually some of the ones we love or connect to the most in a story, and consequently can be some of the most fun to actually play. Good on you for being so honest with how hard it is to deal with fluctuating interest and the process of learning your own preferences

[@mdksailormoon]

The bard look suits you well and this video was very enlightening! As a table top gamer, with a bit of main charactor syndrome myself, I definitely relate to constantly coming up with new ideas for characters. I have so many different original characters in my head at any given time, be it D&D, fandom OCs, or just my own personal characters. Whenever I try to write stories for them, I'm inspired to make another character, the struggle is real! As I've never been to a LARP, and am not a combat girl, what would probably be most comfortable for me to role play would be essentially a kitchen witch who cooks, picks flowers, knits, and sings....which are all things I love in real life! The idea of having a cauldron of soup bubbling at my tent and giving out bowlfuls to people sounds really fun to me! Also you mentioned wandmaking.... would you ever do a video on that? Because as a witchy girl, I'm very interested! 👀 P.S. Sorry for the block of text

[@wildweekly7304]

The thumbnail 💀

[@TheLastSoul]

Yes, I definitely think a swashbuckler bard is very fitting for you.

[@MalloonTarka]

Funny, that explains why I've been perfectly happy with my single character the past ten years. I wanted to do everything, like you, so I made a character who could dip their toes in all the areas - magic, combat, roleplay, music, and more. Because that's what _I_ like. And since I realised I'd be playing this character for days on end, I decided on a personality that was close to my own, to avoid mental fatigue. I added some things such as an increased inclination to taking risks, boisterousness, and a willingness to take drugs such as alcohol and tobacco, which I don't partake of myself, since the consequences would be _in game,_ and I removed some skills which I thought would make it interesting, but my character is very much like _me._ And in the process, I discovered I like being some of those things that I aren't - or wasn't, I should say - so I've become more like my character than I used to be. I still don't take risks or drugs like they do, and never will, but I've certainly become more boisterous. Plus, I don't have the cash to reoutfit a new character, so there's that. Oh, and I discovered _after_ playing them that my character is closest to being the D&D class bard too. Which was funny, since it was the class I was least interested in playing before.

[@marcusfridh8489]

Do not think "who do i want to be, but who do i need to be."

[@DH-xw6jp]

"Actor and storyteller surprises no one learning he's a bard" lol Doing something you know to allow yourself to fit into you character's skin easier is exactly why I played a depressed guard that took up adventuring to avoid his personal noose. Not glamorous, but the familiarity made getting into it easier. And he was allowed to evolve as I did.

[@urdaanglospey6666]

My first LARP, I played me but with magic. Because, I didn't want to have to deal with a new character (and everything that entails), a new voice and/or accent, real life restrictions, AND a new ruleset (I'd played tabletop before) all at the same time. As I got used to all of that, I branched out a little bit here and there. I'd have the character make a different decision than I would normally make. Plus, it's not a real world. The events of that world will change your character. You'd be surprised (or maybe not?) how different that character becomes from you over time. But, it feels much more organic. You don't really notice until you're somewhere and you, "How the hell did I get here!?" and think about it and go . . . Oh! That choice REALLY mattered!

[@Blaze21iz]

When I first started with Magnus, I let him build himself. I had no identity for him, just a “what.” “this is what he does, this is where he’s from” and that was it. He build himself out over the course of the larp, and I’m deeeeeply invested in him I think because of that.

[@sarawahlund223]

I have the same experience. I am the most invested in the characters I planned the least in advance and discovered in game.

[@chrissilo2386]

I think that outfit suits you really well!! Also very glad to hear you being so honest with us, you could've just rolled up with the bard character without saying anything but you chose to explain your thought process which now allows everyone to think about their own choices and characters. I hope you have fun playing around with the bard idea!

[@GerardMenvussa]

If you are coming out, don't forget your hat. The sun is hitting hard today.

[@Segyl88]

I have "Made a new character syndrome" too. It's bad man, i have like a dozen of premade D&D Character line up, and i haven't played D&D in 5 years.

[@maryhenry]

This is a great lesson for anyone (not just LARPers) to examine how they move through life and how true to themselves they're willing to be.

[@Serphion]

This is also rather fitting to your overall struggle, because at least in some versions of DnD the Bard is the quintessential jack of all trades. Heck, they even get a class feature called that in 5e, even if they're more of a spellcaster there than in earlier editions. In the archetype triangle that is Warrior (Might)-Mage (Magic)-Rogue (Finesse) where most classes find themselves in somewhere, Bards naturally fall rather close to the center. Meaning it flows very naturally for you to dabble in many things while still very much remaining a Bard, if you so desire.

[@saxonhermit]

YES! Play what you're most comfortable in! That is a lesson it took me far too long to learn. There is no wrong way to play these games we love, but there are ways that we can make it better for ourselves. It feels great to just be able to slip into a character that feels just as comfortable as your own skin.

[@Justin_Black]

Wow, this has got to be one of my favorite videos that you have made, and in fact very helpful personally.

[@LivingAnachronism]

Thanks Justin, glad it was helpful!

[@skreelthebarbarian]

As someone who doesnt LARP, but enjoys class fantasy archetypes in RPGs and after watching your vids for a while, Bard honestly suits you really well. Foremost, you entertain people. That is the very essence of the Bard archetype. Anything else is just personal flavor.

[@benjaminblack4345]

That's an awesome deep dive. Be yourself. It's a good lesson we need to hear sometimes, and a rather unique application. I really enjoyed this video Kramer! (Still getting used to the shorter hair too, it works well though!)

[@thulsa_dad8862]

I fully embraced my evil wizard side and created a LARP that really felt good being a caster. Granted, I think every class feels really good, but I am a wizard at heart lol.

[@MrDowntemp0]

I think you should revisit that sword idea, maybe a bit more academically. I think you had some good ideas, but maybe took it too far? Maybe something closer to an arming sword with a slightly longer grip, and then consider the balance and rework the proportions until its usable. Maybe witha rapier style hilt that you're familiar with like a Munich Town Guard Sword too. Could be a fun project and probably one you could do some KZbin collabs with.

[@LivingAnachronism]

Yeah Munich town guard sword is what I've been looking at or a side sword. Something like an arming sword with a developed hilt

[@MrDowntemp0]

@@LivingAnachronism It's a very cool design. Feels like its tailor made for your run-of-the-mill adventurer. Especially in close quarter dungeons. I was surprised to find it has historic precedence

[@happytofu5]

That was very insightful - I think I have to face the fact that I don't enjoy fighting at all. I am small, I am weak and fragile, my face is at the right height to be smashed by someone's elbow or shoulder plate by accident. I don't have space to keep any weaponry too. I always enjoy alchemy in RPGs when I get the chance and like to work with herbs irl too, so maybe thats my true calling.

[@eliabeck689]

Bards, unite! I play a bard in my D&D group, and I love it so much! I basically get to do whatever I want, and my DM gets to compensate for my chaos. ;)

[@sageandstone8977]

The lovely thing about being a bard is that you can explore any thing you want. Bards might not be rangers, but they can dress like one for "research" for a song or story. I have often fallen back on a version of what I might have been translated into a different world when I was feeling uncertain about a new game, or simply feeling somewhat vulnerable, and needing familiarity in an unfamiliar setting. They are wonderful "home base" characters from which to explore a world or system. It sounds like you might have come from the other end of this, but everyone needs a comfortable character they can return to, like a favorite set of kit, or a comfy pair of shoes that you know works no matter what else doesn't. And, yes, you look great. As a long time viewer, I have to say that you look comfortable, perhaps truly comfortable for the first time. Enjoy exploring the medieval version of yourself!

[@amandajones8841]

Roleplaying by playing a different role instead of a different person. Amazing.

[@joshuarogue9345]

Man this video really represents how I feel as well, like this one hit home with me. I completely get where you are coming from, ironically I was trying to be a bard but I am only good at Lore lol. No acting, singing, or dancer skills lmao. On that note, glad you are leaning into the Bard role, as we need ppl who can actually play Bards well and not just LOUD Bards lol.

[@ArtemisDalmasca]

One Bard to another: Welcome to the band! I kinda realized a few years ago that i was a bard. I always wanted to act, but failing that, I learned to write, and can possibly sing. Just over a year ago, I started playing an ocarina, which i added to my kit. My problem is trying to figure out what to put together as an outfit. No matter what I make, I feel like its too... Much. I try making it simple, thinking about things rationally and giving each item a function, but it always feels like I have too much on my person.

[@johnstuartkeller5244]

I never got into LARP (outside of attending and, later, working at Medieval/ Renaissance faires,) but as a long-time tabletop gamer, I am familiar with and sympathetic to MAKING SO MANY CHARACTERS. And, yes, coming up with characters ove one's lifetime where you can both escape and be yourself is a fine line. Continue to have that fun, mate.

[@SagelStrider]

As a long half-up-half-down haired, saber-trained, ex-dnd-edgelord, who used to room with 5 actor friends in PA, and also try to over-curate my Bard-Rogue semi-self-insert. I very much appreciate the insight to embrace yourself in your comfort character from an inside-out approach. I've always been at the core of my character, piloting them via justifications, but it's time to get comfortable embracing that I shouldn't need to justify wanting to be 'a me that was born in a fantasy world.'

[@danboomhower43]

My first larp event was Summer 1989, and I'm mostly "retired" at this point. I'll go to the odd event every once in a blue moon, more to hang out with old friends around the campfire than to actually swing swords. But the Friends bit is what's important. And I'm guessing that when you go to larp events, you're primarily participating with the people closest to you in the game. I'd wager that those people will be supportive of your RP choices and character development. So I would suggest trying not to worry so much about choosing the "perfect" character. And just let yourself have fun. You're gonna be among friends. And if you're not among friends? Then you're in the wrong larp.

[@marcelosilveira2276]

Dude... Make a doppelganger bard that got raised on a multitude of tavern stories about heroes of legend and got so fascinated about it that he wants to not only relive those stories, but *be* those heroes, and, because he can never truly maje up his mind, he is constantly changing faces and gear, each day being a different hero, so he can live up all his fantasies, without realizing he is deprieving himself of deeper connections by never keeping the same face for long

[@TheSparda81]

Glad you are finding your niche in the world of larp and fantasy, kinsmen. I'll always remember Beryl and his kin fondly when I remember our days in the Schlosswald Garrison. God willing we'll be able to make more such memories in time. Skal, Vadurkin - Roryn.

[@ShizaruBloodrayne]

Who would I like to be? The continuously better version of myself.

[@FairladyZ2005]

Very insightful. I don't LARP, but I cosplay. I've never done a "self insert" character before because nothing felt right. I'm always interested in being an actual character or something inspired by them. As an actor too, it's easy for me to be someone else. I've always wondered who "I" would be in a fantasy world though for like a renaissance faire or gaming campaign. Maybe I'm a bard at heart too. This video has given me something to think about. Thanks.

[@TheNerdyHomestead]

This really resonates, ive been working on a multi-use character for renfaire/larp/ttrpg and its taught me that swashbuckler/ranger/bard is my favorite combo

[@mitchelltravis1187]

I always recommend: ▪︎Lean into what you can't change ▪︎Change things that are a challenge, but not jarring if you slip ▪︎Build 'Stats Last', figure out what 'CoolDude' you wanna be first ▪︎Pick 3 Positive traits that define CoolDude (loyal, savvy, polite) ▪︎Pick 3 internal Challenges for your CoolDude, things that your character can struggle with, or be used against you (Paladin with alcoholism, Rogue that brags too much, Caster with literacy issues) ▪︎Write some stories, simple one offs instead of a linear block (One time i drank so much I passed out & got robbed, took me weeks to get my sigil back and everyone in town knew it was a child) ▪︎Build as you go, know the idea of CoolDude and make calls on the fly as they come up

[@Hazama27]

After all, a journey of self-discovery is a fantastic story element.

[@Eindkaas]

Greetings and good travels Bard on a path to learn the crafts of the Ranger, from the Ranger watching you to learn the finesse of a Bard ;)

[@MyLobotomy14]

Ive never been more intetested in a bard's tale than now. I wanna know Kramer the Bard.

[@coalcreekdefense8106]

Well, I can't say I fully understand, but I'm glad you trusted us enough to be honest. I actually suspected this might be the case when you were so interested in theater. Don't forget that your fans will always love and support you. And if you meet a nice dragon, don't be afraid to bring them to meet us!

[@YepImThatGuy66]

Years ago I did civil war reenacting. As time went by I began to portray a confederate gen. Now when one is one the field and wearing wool and ex.. ex.. one gets heated fast. I decided to carry with me a copper cup at the events. It worked will with the ice and kept me on my feet. Someone asked one day.. "Did Gen. Morgan carry a copper cup like that round?" I said "I don't know, but it works for me." Your story made me remember this.. always allow for some room to move in your character and don't forget.. Have Fun. Peace

[@AnotherDuck]

The more you talking about yourself wanting to be a bit of everything, the more I thought of the DnD Bard. And that's besides your acting skills. It's one of the most jack of all trades classes, along with the Cleric.

[@charlessamson7668]

Well, that's funny, I am just starting a bard character because of almost all the same reasons. I did fencing (épée) for like 10 years, I play piano, bagpipes and recently tin whistle. I just ordered a rapier larp sword and a dagger for my off hand / tavern defense from villagers who are sick of my bagpipes. Happy shenanigans in your next adventures!

[@Sylentmana]

I thought about this before for a D&D campaign where we played isekai versions of ourselves. It took me forever to figure it out because I had so many of the problems you did. I finally figured it out. A Battlemaster Fighter with a musket as my weapon. My reasoning is that I’m very direct and straightforward in my life, I’m familiar with firearms including black powder weapons, and I have military experience including wearing modern armor in combat. I’m also tall, broad, and fairly strong and I work in asset protection. Seemed like a good fit.

[@skjaldulfr]

What you're describing--character idea ADD--is an affliction I had as to videogames when I was kid. Whether it was Runescape, World of Warcraft, or Oblivion. All my friends got to really high levels, but I never did, because I kept being inspired to make different kinds of characters.

[@katherinec6031]

On self-critique-two things. First: all experience builds your skill and reference. Even if you make an acting/character/whatever choice you don’t like, now you know what goes/leads into it and can use that information for next time (to make an adjustment to the choice, create a new response to the choice, or try something else entirely). Second: play, art, self-expression-these are not graded. There is no inherent right way or wrong way. Obviously, there is curtesy to anyone else involved (abiding by agreed upon guidelines, not disrespecting, being collaborative, etc), but in terms of whether something is “too close,” “too far,” “not accurate enough,” or any “too much” or “too little”…these are arbitrary. Fun, satisfaction, and enjoyment are rarely results from only technical success. And waiting for them to come that way will frustrate and cause distance. But they are often found in being part of the moment one is in. We exist only in the now as linear beings, and though we must also plan and remember, neither can take the place of being, or supersede the power of it. Not to be too cliche, but follow your heart. What do you want? What does the story whisper to do now? What choice are you drawn to, when judging by arbitrary rules alone gives way to judging by what seems right? Anyway, it’s a little raw of an approach sometimes, but it will expose what is inside much faster and more strongly than constant self-editing will. And if the current plan includes being discontent sometimes one way, what is there to lose by risking another way? And after all, we might also accidentally find a kind of happiness we never anticipated either.

[@dawsonehlke1290]

You are the perfect casting for Will Treaty from Ranger’s Apprentice. You match his description and he’s a multi class ranger/bard. Also spends a lot of time with Vikings.

[@Sock-Monster-Simian]

The outfit looks really good already, so I'm definitely excited to see where it goes. (I also just love bards.) The LARP meta-talk is always welcome, especially for learning about how to get into that kinda stuff.

[@ranuelthebard3751]

When I created my longest running character Ranuel the Bard over 20 years ago for a tabletop game I was frustrated by the fact that I had put a lot of thought into my last two characters and then was able to play them for only a short period of time for different reasons. I decided to just have fun with the next one and threw in a few things that I felt were the opposite of me to make it interesting. She was a LOT more outgoing and willing to take risks than I was. I made her much younger than me and focused on superficial things like fashion. It turned out that the longer I played her the more outgoing I became IRL and the more willing I became to try new things including taking more chances with fashion choices. She did me a lot of good in the decade or so that I ended up actively playing her. It worked though because by not putting a lot of thought into it at first the rest of her was essentially me with pointed ears.

[@joshuawallen8112]

It is always good to see someone find their Class/Archetype. It might be the GM in me, but someone finding their thing like this gives me the fuzzies. Or that might be heart burn. Hm... Anyway. This Arcanist wishes you well on this quest. May your steel be ever sharp, and your voice ever clear.

[@jargoggle]

Loved the vid. Sometimes the most compelling story decisions come from places you have unique experience in. You have a perspective that translates beautifully into a fantasy setting.

[@erinwojcik4771]

I listened very carefully to this episode and when you finally started verbalizing the realization that the best character to play is yourself, all I could think was "There it is. He has finally reached the right level of maturity to no longer be an apprentice. Congratulations and welcome to full membership in the Guild of Adulthood."

[@erinwojcik4771]

Side note: "Boo" for missing the oppertunity to go to Poland.

[@TylerFlynn-dp3xu]

I really liked this introspection! It makes a lot of sense to have those fears and anxieties even while LARPing. You’re so good at what you do though, there’s no way you won’t be a good bard. Your bard outfit looks great btw. Where did you get the jacket?

[@WhisperingWisp357]

I could easily see you as a picaroon or musketeer type character, but that's only if the ruleset isn't conducive to bards. I'm glad you're able to get through this introspective journey on larping and come out with a truth about yourself. What you do is really cool and I hope your satisfaction with your journey continues and that your adventures never end.

[@terradon852]

24:31 I think you look fantastic Kramer, really fits you well!

[@ChrisOToole89]

I do the same thing, my characters are just me as a wandering swordsman because that's what I'm interested in and I want to have a good time as my character. Love the new hair btw

[@carlosspeicywiener7018]

As for me, I'm not a bad guy, I just had the rotten luck of being born in the wrong century. I would be perfectly at home on an ancient battlefield swinging a broadsword and hurling curses.

[@BluestoneGargoyle]

Congrats on "finding" yourself! Enjoy having fun with it at your next larp or six.

[@sirencalloftoys9162]

Late to the comments, but I can assure you, Bards are some of my favorite people at LARP. I can't sing or dance or play music - I am an enthusiastic audience. The system I play in lets people who are Bards use their performances to Renew their audience (lets them regain skills used in battles). And we tip, so the Bard can then pay to renew themselves. I work in the tavern at my game, and one of my fondest memories is of two bards sitting in the corner working on a song together - a song about one of the characters. We have amazing Bards that write songs about things that happened in the game, and then sing them. It's wonderful. I highly encourage you to bring that wonder and song to any game you go to. It will be appreciated by other players.

[@marissabulso6439]

This video was both very dear and very helpful. Thank you, Kramer. ❤ I never realized it, but I have been held back by the same thing…afraid to embrace a character that is too much like me because criticism (real or perceived) can hit too close to home. Now that you’ve helped me realize that, it’s going to be so much easier to move past it. (And you look GREAT in your bard outfit!)

[@cmpiepho]

Thank you for this incredibly insightful mini existential crisis I didn't know I needed to hear but am so grateful I did! I'm so happy you've found what works for you! The new kit looks great!

[@williambaldwin6779]

Man one day when I go to a larp I hope to meet you. Your videos are a great inspiration and insight into the overall hobby. I’m hoping to go to one next year even if I have a super basic kit.

[@zephyreon4]

im glad to find another person with the same problem as me. im so good at making characters! ...as long as they're for other people

[@j.nereim9055]

you are wearing the new kit with relaxed ease. For reasons I won't go into, the subject of this video could not have been better timed. Thanks.

[@OwlskiTV]

This is accurate to how I feel too, albeit I never struggled with finding my identity/character. In the instances of RP/D&D I've done (albeit limited), I've always just been "myself". I am Owlski the Fighter, or Owlski the Ranger, Owlski the Bard, etc. Who I am is inherently me, but as if I was placed in that scenario/situation. Talking to others who I partied with, it seems they all take some part of who they are and apply it to their character in some way. I think it's integral into feeling and connecting with that character, as the interactions and behaviour of said character is more genuine. -------------------------- I often joke how I'd be terrible at heavy RP, cause if I ever built connections/friendships in said RP, I'd feel devastated if said friendship didn't continue to build/grow after RP was over (like it was all a lie, and thus feeling like I lost a friend). Me seeing someone as a friend in RP and getting along with them is (once again) genuinely and inherently me building a friendship with the character, even if the situations are fantasy or make believe.

[@annapajak5116]

Listen you are good at creating different characters and great at encompassing and looking like those characters so just keep on doing what you're doing because you are loving it and enjoying it..

[@steambub]

I like the system of character creation that RPGpundit's games (Baptism of Fire, Loin & Dragon, and Star Adventurer) have, a random system where you roll stats, background, class, and level up rewards. Writing up a background for your character before the game even starts isn't something you should do when your level 1 (or level 0 in the case of Dungeon Crawl Classic) adventure is your backstory. And it's a game of make believe, not a writer's workshop or stage show. The video Stop PERFORMING and Start ROLE PLAYING by Black Lodge Games will cover this better than I could. Also, you might like Loin & Dragon with Dark Albion or Sword & Caravan and Baptism of Fire, all an authentic medieval old school D&D game.

[@juliacomeau4972]

Ah yes, the superior class. Welcome brother.

[@NindroidWoodElfProductions]

A fond greeting to you, fellow bard!

[@SimpleDesertRose]

I see Lady Gabriel managed to bring you back. That was a short lived adventure. 😉 I think you need to be less critical of yourself and just relax about things. Like you said it's a game. It's not like everyone else has all the skills necessary to be what their character is either. If learning to survive in the wilderness is so important to you that take some wilderness survival classes. You can be dual class and be both ranger and bard. Pick up a mandolin or a lute and start strumming away. Crack jokes about surviving in the wilderness if you need to. I think you keep drifting back to the ranger character because you want to be one of the Dúnedain and possibly even Strider/Aragorn himself. Not that I can blame you. Who wouldn't want to be that badass? You already got the girl and a ring, you just need a group of halflings to lead around. Maybe a dwarf and an elf too. Though Lady Gabriel looks like she could pass for an elf. So you just need halflings and a Dwarf. Or you could just settle down and be Kramer the bard who sings of Lady Gabriel's beauty and starts cracking jokes to make everyone laugh. Nothing wrong with want to have a good time. Good luck on your adventures.

[@jeice13]

This is why i dontbuild characters (tabletop not larp) until i need them. Once its ready you want to try it

[@Kargoneth]

No son of mine will be singing for his supper. What would the neighbours think? We'd be the laughing stock of the hamlet! Get your head out of the clouds, boy! The family's ancestral clay beds won't quarry, shape, and fire themselves into pottery!

[@bionodroid547]

This is why human fighter is the best, u can be whatever u want or need and no one questions it. U can be into alchemy or be a part time entertainer or whatever, then when you’re in fights, u get to flex all your niche arms and armor lore u learned from hema

[@ClearlyPixelated]

Very insightful! Thank you for talking about this.

[@familyofparsons5354]

I would also say that my irl persona matches with a typical bard persona. I too felt like it "wasn't roleplaying" to play a bard. I have goals to larp but never have but I do play DnD. And I NEVER loved DnD until I played a bard. I have played one ever since and despite the pull that it feels to obvious or that myself or others will have higher expectations for my abilities, It is oh so worth it. I am so much more comfortable at a table. I have so much more fun. I don't have my guard up all the time. It is just wonderful. I hope you experience this too, Kramer. The whole point of LARP and any RPG is to have a good time. Allow it, man. Have fun. Wish you the best. 🙂 P.S. I failed miserably the first time i had to roleplay vicious mockery. it was insanely embarrassing, and i was surprised it was so hard to do for someone that is usually sort of quick-witted. But even the characters you know have an opportunity for practice and growth. it's not failure, it's a learning experience.

[@ClanMcC79]

Definitely a great kit for you, good luck with it and I'm totally going to borrow the look myself!!

[@graywolfdracon]

First of all: thanks for making me feel old, Mr. "I was 14 in 2012". Secondly: now that you are embracing being a bard, how's that "Where there's a whip, there's a way" cover coming?

[@joshuaanderson1369]

I honestly think the thing that made me come into my own as a fighter was embracing the styles that felt natural rather than shoehorning something that I thought looked cool. If rapier feels good then become the best rapier duelist that you can. Play those instruments. Learn poetry. Be the best damn swashbuckling bard / musketeer that you can be. Best part? They're not mutually exclusive. The musketeers were men of culture. Just as capable of romance and sophistication as swordplay and violence. Be who you are comfortable being. Be what feels right. Side note: The costume looks fantastic.

[@heraldofthemetalgods2620]

Lighting-bolt! Lighting-bolt! LIGHTING-BOLT!!

[@bestkoolaid1835]

I have the opposite problem, I always just play me. Like I can’t make a character and just role play I just end up being me.

[@seymourfields3613]

Man, I'm a barabass, I performed in highschool, had solos and duets, I love performing, I love story telling, I love making light of hard situations, and I LOVE playing bards. You naturally fit where you fit. Yes, I played football in highschool, I was the center. I played some in college. But I don't like playing a big dumb brute. Welcome to the Bard's college.

[@BrianSmith-ql5nj]

Master bard professional entertainer deadly with the foil. Sounds like the perfect fit!❤❤👍👍

[@mohandarholmes3741]

Thank you for your video ! Beautiful bard by the way

[@ianwalker3144]

When you said you want to be a bard, I got images of a better Chris Pine character😉...I'm looking forward to the new content as you explore this new class!!!

[@cbhlde]

This video is a therapy session! Thanks man! :)

[@LivingAnachronism]

"Larp is therapy" was a working title for this video originally 😁

[@darrinrebagliati5365]

A Bard would totally benefit from Ranger skills. Especially an adventurous Bard. I usually play dual classed characters: Ranger/Thief, Ranger/Assassin, Ranger/Cleric. Basically Fighter classes with a bit of special skills. Bow, Axe, sword and staff. Daggers too but that's a given! Thinking Ranger/Druid is next, complementary classes are handy. Of course I'm AD&D because I'm old but haven't dug my books out in years. Looking for people to play is hard when you move around alot.

[@GraveFiller613]

Larp Isekai with Kramer. Got it. Look forward to it.

[@simonstanley9219]

I flip flop what fandom into at a certain time and it is soooooo annoying!! Ghostbusters yesterday, Star Wars today, lotr next month, and who knows, maybe I’ll relapse on doctor who. I feel what your saying so much

[@August_Mannaz]

You dapper, Lad 🔥

[@andrewbutton2039]

I decided quite a while back I wasn't going to be anyone important, just a guy in the background doing a job rangering around, clearing trails, stopping bandits occasionally. Haven't decided on a name yet though. I do have a lot of various assorted stuff that I've made that doesn't fit my character though.

[@brycetheviewer9986]

dang this sound so inspiring bro thank you so much🔥🔥🔥🔥

[@tzor]

I have never been to a LARP. However, I used to occasionally try out for the costume contest in Gen Con (many years ago) and about a decade ago a friend of mine used to take me to a Ran Faire. I had purchased a medieval Franciscan robe (wool, of excellent quality as I found out when the skies opened, and the torrents fell, and I remained dry). I have several things that just don't fit the Franciscan model (because a cincture isn't the best thing to hang stuff from and a belt is not what was the norm - although I have a nice leather one). But in the context of a LARP, that could work; a Friar Tuck, as it were, complete with a belt purse and a wooden tankard because you always need a tankard. I'm stuck with footwear. My medieval fantasy boots worked for Gen Con, but they are cheap. I suppose I could splurge again and get ... leather Berkenstocks (the open variety).

[@Jordan.A.07]

Funnily enough, I recently thought about what my class might be, if I was just straight up converted into a DND character (for the purposes of creating a fantasy oc); and like you, the answer I arrived at subverted my pre-existing expectations. And because of this, I am now thinking about what a "College of Marionettes" Bard might look like (Battle Smith Artificer + Bard = Character who controls puppets in order to entertain friends and crush enemies). So yeah. Who knew the path to the soul was largely fictitious? 😂

[@joshuarogue9345]

I 100% get this problem, its been really hard as I am stuck on a strict budget and I have the ADHD character design issue lol. My recent method of fixing this is to lean into my person strengths, that way my characters are naturally more immersive. For instance if I were to play a barbarian at a LARP, I would break the immersion for some ppl cause I am 6ft and 140 lbs. Basically a light pole. However, I am a lore nerd and devote Christian with a deep interest in the occult and paranormal. So I am aiming for somethin similar to Solomon Kane mixed with Constantine(Keanu version) for a personality and then apply that to whichever class/role fits best. So Occult Detectives, Paranormal Investigators, Witch Hunters, Sacred Ranger, Cleric, etc.

[@nostrathomas8057]

This video speaks volumes to me. I've gone in trying to be a ranger, then I changed to pirate, then a knight and now a hunter rogue of sorts... My main problem right now is finding the right sword. I keep buying different swords that I think will work in my larp but they don't. I've got Mitryls Gladius, but it hits too hard and the later of foam is quite thin. I have a couple epic armory swords that are hybrid but I find out my larp had a rule against the hybrid line. NOW, I say a sale in medieval collectibles that includes epic armory stronghold line and I'm looking to get the bastard gold. ....ugh, I hope this is the one.

[@LivingAnachronism]

What swords does your larp allow? Do they have a list of excepted brands?

[@nostrathomas8057]

@@LivingAnachronism B3,, nemesis, and some epic armory ( not the hybrid line) and similar types