Reckoning 2 Electric Boogaloo Review | Larp Review

[@LivingAnachronism]

Making videos like this is always hard. Both because of the potentially controversial nature, backlash etc, and also because this video is an 1 hour and 20 minutes and took a full day to upload. That's why it's late. My apologies.

[@Dundien-ix4kd]

Of corse This was necesary to make in hope the reckoning will inprove

[@kencoffman7145]

For the price you paid and lack of ticket verification I totally agree with your opinion. Now, I'm not a larp person but I love that its accepted now, but organizers have to realize that many of us see events as a yearly vacation. For the price paid, events HAVE to deliver.

[@LivingAnachronism]

@@kencoffman7145 Absolutely Ken. Members of my own party said the exact same thing. Taking time off, or paid time off (if available) for a week long event is a big time commitment. And for many that's the total amount of time they get off during that part of the season.

[@batou1976]

@@kencoffman7145 totally agree. I don’t LARP (yet[?]), but I am aware of the expense and time commitment involved. LARPing is significant enough of a hobby that event organizers *have* to be on the ball and deliver on customer service if they want players to keep coming. If they want this to be their business, they have to RUN IT like a business.

[@kencoffman7145]

@@LivingAnachronism yes! I typically attend ren fairs and understand that there is overhead there but..... ain't none of us able to give up half a weeks work for a crap weekend

[@SkillTree]

Great review, my man. I agree as well with feeling bad for the people who went because of our videos. We added a lot of extra content to the game BECAUSE we wanted to make sure they had fun, but the lack of actual storyline and the general way the game runner has and is continuing to behave is extremely disheartening. We are lucky to have an amazing community who can make a good time out of whole cloth, but that should not be the expectation. Thanks for all you do!

[@LivingAnachronism]

Absolutely man. The stuff you guys added helped keep the game going for those intermediate days. Big thumbs up for helping give folks something to do 🗡️

[@IgnizAnima]

@@LivingAnachronism Maybe you and Clever can run a Larp together. I know I'd attend.

[@andrewverdon1818]

@@IgnizAnimaI haven’t attended a Larp yet but I absolutely would if they did that

[@gentlemanbrain5829]

Mädchen

[@coalcreekdefense8106]

I watched your account of the event. I've never even considered LARP before, but honestly, you made me want to try it out. Just imagining a pair of random merchants sending adventurers on small-scale missions for their own clandestine purposes sounds more fun than large-scale faction wars.

[@texasbeast239]

If the staff suddenly inserted an uncoordinated/non-previously-announced NPC into my community of dwarves, we would likely immediately deem that NPC a sorcerer and kill it to death right there.

[@LivingAnachronism]

Which is especially difficult if the new NPC is actually offscreen and not a real character at the actual event

[@texasbeast239]

@@LivingAnachronism See? Definitely a sorcerer! Kill him! Kill him to death! ☠️

[@VosperCDN]

That sounds like the most dwarven thing to do.

[@DavvyChappy]

Thank you for the shoutout! Welcome to the club.

[@LivingAnachronism]

Hey Davvy! I wanted to reach out to you actually for this video but couldn't find a good way to do that. My email is in my about section, if you'd ever like to chat.

[@DavvyChappy]

I can be found on Discord and Twitter. I will never forgive you for failing to find me.

[@himonightbreeze]

The problem with the "open sandbox" concept is that without the walls containing the sand it's just a desert. Sandboxes need walls to hold them together. You can't drop a bunch of strangers into the woods with just the loosest definition of setting.

[@Fuzzycat16]

You need rules and strict guidelines to follow. Something the event was lacking.

[@himonightbreeze]

@@Fuzzycat16 I watched Davvy Chappy's video on it, and want to give them the benefit of the doubt since it's only their second event, and Skill Tree seemed to have fun despite the gamerunners' shortcomings. Of course, they had to literally make their own fun in the form of a bounty board with coins and stuff. (Definitely recommend giving it a watch.) It sounds like the people need more experience running a game at this scale. I'd suggest running more than 1 session a year to properly bang out the logistic issues and get used to running the show. I'll admit, I'd be upset if I paid almost $300 for turkey wraps and Cheetos. That isn't accounting for travel expenses. Even the small-scale game I play (

[@beksc9209]

I think the easiest way for me to relate to this particular sandbox metaphor is Star Wars. One of my favorite things about Star Wars is that it really is anybody's sandbox. There are some great books and fanfics; there are some awful ones I don't finish, but anybody can write and the audience picks what it likes, to a degree. There are still boundaries, tho. Disney broke those boundaries with absurd Force-healing abilities and teleporting(?) objects. Suddenly, Star Wars made even less sense than it already did and consequences were nullified.

[@9899931]

I gotta say, I like your plans for the castle better than what actually happened with it.

[@Blaze21iz]

Hey Kramer! For what it’s worth, our roleplay with Berolt’s family sword was one of my favorite moments. You were a part of what made my experience there wonderful! I hope that we meet up at a different larp and fight together again someday! If you happen to want to talk about whatever larp you’re going to or anything like that, I would love to see you again some time! -Magnus, The Hadrian Monster Hunter

[@shadowofhawk55]

Hope he sees this, that story he shared was awesome to hear

[@Blaze21iz]

@@shadowofhawk55 It was one of my personal highlights as well. I was a Hadrian Interfector, basically a grey warden. Being able to eventually sign off and say "no no. Your family's sword is safe." was a beautiful roleplaying moment. Shaking hands afterwards, being told Magnus was a good man and that if I called he would come. It was a wonderful where both of our characters really shined brightly.

[@shadowofhawk55]

@@Blaze21iz That kinda story makes me want to larp so damn badly. My wallet argues against it.

[@LivingAnachronism]

Absolutely man, if you're in the discord, shoot me a message, I'd love to talk. That was a really cool moment for me. You were awesome to play with, and did a fantastic job of taking command in those final days. The tourney was also fun :) really hope we get to play together again, I think we can make it happen. You have a fantastic attitude!

[@IgnizAnima]

@@shadowofhawk55 My budget is yelling at me but I'm committed. Just have a list of things I need and I'm simply chipping away at it. Almost have everything now though. Just need a couple changes of clothes.

[@dagoblin994]

I feel for you Kramer. It sucks when a game doesnt live up to expectations, especially when you have to travel, make preparations, and generally put alot of pre event hours visualizing and mentally preparing for how your character will be at said event. Its very important to provide constructive feedback, and take off those rose colored glasses, and I commend you for doing so.

[@LivingAnachronism]

Thanks Rob

[@ima6pack]

I agree with all of this. I had such a good time with the community but felt like I was wandering in perpetual confusion. I've never been one to step on people's toes or push an agenda which caused me to hold back with my ideas and lore, which then made me feel like I failed to bring much of value to the game. I do remain optimistic for the future of LARP in the US as it seems the community is dedicated to growing and refining it. Don't ever kick yourself for inviting people to join you in something you're passionate about. Hopefully I'll see you at another one, or hopefully Reckoning will fix itself and bring us back around

[@LivingAnachronism]

Hey Amartis, agreed. Really hope we can get to another game together someday, whether Reckoning or otherwise. I enjoyed our RP meetings together

[@devan12321]

Hello, Its MEAT here, one of the orcs, thanks for what you said about us, we genuinely do appreciate it.

[@LivingAnachronism]

MEAT! You're awesome man, really hope I get to see you guys again one day.

[@devan12321]

@@LivingAnachronism im sure our paths will cross again

[@alexanderlewis8121]

As a long time larper I feel bad that you went through this. I'm disgusted that a game is run like this that has a almost $300 ticket. I'm glad you are using your experience to educate people that this is not ok or acceptable. You aren't nitpicking whatsoever. This game is robbing their players and obviously the runner/owner has no idea what they are doing. The group of players sound awesome and should move on to a better game that is established and respects their players.

[@IgnizAnima]

Sounded like the staff was frustrated as well. Maybe they can move along and try to better run their own game as well. Idk what the communication is like from the guy running it to the staff/volunteers but it doesn't sound great.

[@PocketKanin]

as someone who has been wanting to larp for years now but has no friends to do so with, i thought reckoning could be a first time chance. after watching your first video on it last year and other people’s videos i was seriously thinking on it, but then i saw the price of almost $300 for a ticket this year and saw things about staff/venue that made me not want to go at all… skilltree said something in their video on reckoning about possibly making their own larp, sponsor, or something along those lines. i think it’d be nice to see a larp that is very clear cut, states everything, and helped by people like you guys for the newbies like me who don’t really have a friend to go with or really know anything besides the basics that we get told everywhere, “always have water on you” sort of stuff. you posting this video helps so much because it shows people how an event actually is, not just a yay or nay. maybe some like the more casual vibe this event gives, while others who love the roleplay would know to stay away. thank you 💙

[@OutlandStation]

I think you and Skill Tree and some other channel-owners have shown a depth of understanding as to how a good game should be set up and conducted. I've watched several videos on Reckoning and Reckoning 2 and would LOVE to see (and participate in) what you guys could put together. Thank you for your honest evaluation of your experiences.

[@BarokaiRein]

I've never been all that interested in LARPing myself, but I like hearing about it. One thing I never expected was for tickets to be that expensive. Like 260 dollars is about 100 more than what I have to pay for a 4 day ticket to my favorite music festival,camping included. Not a tiny festival either, they book pretty big bands from all over the world there. I find it insane that an event that is run this poorly asks so much of their players. Like you need to get a costume specifically for this event because it's faction specific, and you can't even camp without a historically accurate tent, but then the event itself breaks immersion constantly. How do you ask people to spend hundreds of dollars on historical tents just to had them styrofoam plates and drive cars around the venue? Also, I find it incredible that there's been no official apology for any of this. Like the festival I mentioned earlier apologized for having perfectly acceptable food vendors one year because they were known for having straight up awesome food vendors in the past, and people felt a bit betrayed by the decline in quality.

[@theexchipmunk]

Wild. I pay 225 euros for Drachenfest, which is a really big event with a lot of infrastructure. While a lot of stuff is player organised, there is tons of things that get organised by the organiser. Toilets, showers, water through the area, some pretty nice set dressing and so on. And it´s a 5 day event with arond 6000 players.

[@BreandanOCiarrai]

Kramer, videos like this are very important to people like my brother and I. We live in Alaska, so have to spend anywhere from $500-$1200 for airfare to fly to big LARP events. That's one helluva financial investment on top of the tickets and supplies, so we don't want to blow that money on a dodgy LARP. Currently, Bicolline is our primary target for next year (work got in the way of this year), and I am curious about Drachenfest US. But I am VERY picky about what LARP events I will attend considering the aforementioned financial costs, and getting valid pros and cons from people like you who attend such events is helpful in avoiding land mines.

[@LivingAnachronism]

I am really glad it was helpful then. Thank you Breandan. I've not had the pleasure of attending bicoline, due to cost, but I have heard great things about it. I have also heard good things about Drachenfest, though the us branch is also new. But I think they are coming from an already successful game in Europe

[@BreandanOCiarrai]

Yeah, Drachenfest in Germany is well established, extremely RP-focused, and pretty solid. The US branch is still a wild card for us. I'm willing to take a chance on it, but if you get a chance to go and give a review... just sayin' 😁

[@RustedSniper7]

I was the prince of the Suzak Mar at this event. I had tons of fun, and I’m really sad that the game was disappointing for lots of people

[@sAssclown]

As they say, it’s good to be the King… or in this case, Prince 😂

[@murderyoutubeworkersandceos]

>i was the elite tasked with not stopping to be the upper echelon >i dont know why u plebs didn't enjoy it

[@joshuaanderson1369]

@@murderyoutubeworkersandceos From what I saw in other videos this guy was pretty active in a lot of the player based initiatives to actually give people something to do. Coming from that side of it, I think he has every right to not only be disappointed that some people didn't have fun, but also that the event itself didn't live up to what it should have.

[@murderyoutubeworkersandceos]

@@joshuaanderson1369 i dont doubt ppls disappointment

[@DevinFraze]

@@murderyoutubeworkersandceos Nah, the prince was great.

[@AzraelThanatos]

For the run your own LARP thing, you might consider something a lot less massive as Reckoning attempts. Having something that's a single day thing could, probably, work far more easily than the longer ones. Or if you want the tent side of it, having it a day and a half event...show up Friday and set up, game ends on Saturday night.

[@randomusernameCallin]

Practice running one before it get larger.

[@xoso599]

An event on this scale would be similar to a minor military training exercise. A week long event for a few hundred would take groups of senior soldiers with decades of personal experience and a century plus of institutional experience to plan. Even then things might go wrong but at least then you can laugh nervously and say it's good training when things to go wrong. I don't think I'd ever want to join the planning for a birthday party let alone a paying event with hundreds of people. This isn't an excuse for a bad performance but a reflection of the massive amount of experience and knowledge you need to have any chance of doing it right. Reckoning 2 Fyre Fest Review is my suggestion for an alternative video title.

[@LivingAnachronism]

Absolutely agree. It's a massive amount of work to take on to run an event and do it well. And in regards to the name, I tried not to blast too hard, and I don't quite think it was THAT level, but it is, more or less, an apt comparison

[@texasbeast239]

Well run summer camps routinely process hundreds of campers with a staff of 20 to 50 adults and young adults, many of whom carry over from year to year. They have their routine down pat, and things go smoothly. This sounds more like a summer camp horror movie sequel where the staff is all new each time and never learns from the past.

[@xoso599]

@@texasbeast239 Yeah the administration side was described as what I'd call deficient for an event that wasn't going to have some problems. It's always going to be a pain to feed a large number of people in a way that keeps people happy. It's nearly impossible to do without very deep structural planning to support an efficient system. I can't even imagine how you could do it in a RP friendly way that kept people happy.

[@lofidrone6374]

This is a really good take. Good context, and very accurate, I can attest to.

[@theexchipmunk]

Yeah, organising Drachenfest or Conquest of Mythodea, Larps with thousands of players (CoM has like around 10,000 people there) got to be a nightmare.

[@dawsonehlke1290]

The real fun was with the signage, waivers, meal tickets, dish-ware, dining tables, catering, spell cards, potions, the orcs’ water, and plot in a locked U-Haul somewhere.

[@LivingAnachronism]

The real Reckoning was the friends we made along the way

[@theexchipmunk]

@@LivingAnachronism Isn´t that always the case with Larp? I have been ignoring the plot of every event (thats not CoM because I am a Undead Cleric for the NSC there and am kinda obligated to know the plot) i have been going to. :D

[@theexchipmunk]

That sounds really bad. Like, kind of apocalyptic for a con bad.

[@lofidrone6374]

Thank you for your honest review. This helps me make sense of some of what Clever from SkillTree was saying. I’m glad that we have both reviews to help see the full picture.

[@Draculord666]

These are important videos to make, especially when attending these larp events isn't exactly cheap. It's a shame that after the rocky first event (I highly recommend Davvy Chappy's video on that too), the second didn't show enough meaningful improvement.

[@erysecret]

Not knowing anything about the event, it was a huge plot twist for me to hear the Orcs were player characters and only given a SMALL discount. I figured that they were, in fact, players on an NPC shift. The fact that they were an entire faction that paid to essentially be NPCs is insane and its really unfortunate to hear that they weren't treated the way that I believe they should have been. The truth of the matter is that a lot of events will allow full time NPCs to go to the events for free, so the fact that they were only given a small discount is really sad. I can't imagine putting all that time and effort only to essentially spend nearly half a week as an unpaid actor. I hope the people responsible for the mismanagment of this LARP take these comments, as well as other's comments, into consideration for future events. I'm sorry to hear that you had a generally negative experience, but I appreciate that you went, because through you your audience is able to hear the good and bad of the event in a subjective but detailed and informed way. Thank you.

[@maxpowers9129]

It does sound messed up to make people pay in order to be an unpaid actor. Maybe the staff thought if anyone could get in for free by dressing as an orc, maybe it would attract people who didn't take it seriously? Still, it seems like a better solution could be found.

[@erysecret]

@@maxpowers9129 I think because they are a known group and because they are known to take it seriously it might have been better to strike a deal with them. Alternatively, not relying on them as much as it sounded like they did is also another option. I agree with you 100%

[@luvnotvideos]

Sounds like the Reckoning crew lacked a Project Manager. Events like this are great, but require a tremendous amount planning, budgeting, coordinating, and time. They also require formal contracts with vendors to ensure they don't back out at the last minute without penalty. As many others have stated, the Reckoning was a business venture and needs to be treated as such.

[@robertjensen1438]

I made a set of plate armor and a helmet for my pet duck. It’s nothing fancy, but it fits the bill.

[@LivingAnachronism]

Haha!

[@DH-xw6jp]

Why do you insist on PUNishing us?

[@philgagnon275]

I like telling Dad jokes as much as the next guy. Sometimes he even laughs

[@thulsa_dad8862]

As someone who is working on an immersive LARP, this video has been an amazing resource. I sincerely appreciate that you made this.

[@LivingAnachronism]

I am glad, PureStugian

[@thulsa_dad8862]

@@LivingAnachronism I have lots of friends that went to Reckoning and I have heard VERY mixed things. Your experience would have had me so mad lol.

[@kris99596]

I normally shy away from the long videos, but I was interested in what you had to say and glad I sat through it all. It sucks that things didn't go as they should have. It sounds like the organizers didn't really know what they were doing. I wish you better luck and more enjoyment from your future LARPing experiences. This video is particularly relevant to me, as I'm trying to put a LARP together from scratch and I've never been to one. There are none local to me, so I figure if I want to try LARPing, I'm going to have to do it myself. Your feedback is invaluable to a noob like me trying to piece things together.

[@willixshear5412]

One note on the conflict over the sword, the Hadrians got the sword from the Jaegers who went behind the Rivlans back to get it to them after the ritual was completed

[@joe_f]

Hey Kramer! I'm sorry to hear the event wasn't up to snuff. However, I'm glad to hear you were able to bring a few friends along and kit them up in some garb! I'm currently sewing/assembling my own kit (with the assistance of a sewing machine) and have been scouring the internet for inspiration. If your friends are comfortable with it, or are willing to at least share the clothes, I'd love to see what everybody brought! Thanks for the insights and your thoughts, hopefully your friends weren't put off and are willing to take on another adventure with you in the future!

[@AlatheD]

I don't LARP, I play in the SCA. People often compare the two, but they are not the same. As you explain (unfortunately by expounding upon the problems with that event) more about a LARP, I understand more about how the two things are not the same. So, still you elucidate, and I thank you for that. That said, I'm sorry, a poorly run event is rarely a wonderful thing, the problems tend to overshadow the benefits. I hope your next event is MUCH better. Remember the good bits, only remember the bad bits that you may avoid them (or possibly advise against them if you've the opportunity) in the future. Adventure on!

[@SOAP-jf7ue]

Despite the numeritive logistical and narrative deficits, I had quite a bit of fun with the other players. My favorite was certainly fighting alongside you during the 2v2 tournament and in the final shield wall. I'll miss seeing you next go around. ~Eske

[@WordSarien]

If it makes you feel better, this video actually helped assuage some of my concerns about LARPs. I've never done one, and it simultaneously sounds insanely fun and kind of terrifying/overwhelming (I'm an introvert, and while I enjoy RPing, I don't usually do so with strangers). I looked into Reckoning after your last video, and I was concerned about some of the things you brought up here - namely, that it was both kind of a sandbox but still had a plot you had to stick to, and that the classes all revolved around combat. I assumed that's just what LARPs are like and thought, "Maybe this just isn't for me." Finding out that those are *not* standard for LARPs encourages me to look into them again. I still find the idea kind of overwhelming, and might stick to enjoying them vicariously through videos like yours, but having a better picture of what a good LARP looks like is really helpful.

[@LivingAnachronism]

There are larps that focus heavily on RP, to the point of not having combat at all, or having the combat be decided via dice rolls or something. Those tend to be smaller, more social events, and I will confess to not having been to one like that, so I can't make a recommendation, but I know they exist, if that is more your cup of tea. But yeah there are LOTS of different types of games that follow their own formulas

[@wolfcryerke]

Ah man, the orc part hit home. I recently started playing with an orc group over here and yeah, it's though. A lot of those guys are military and even they have to take regular breaks to get through it all. But also from my experience I can say orc players are standup people and sweethearts. One thing that still baffles me is a couple of years ago someone was complaining (out game) that an orc had been "rude" ingame.. I mean what did you expect.. About "meddling" in the organisation of a larp. I had an experience with a larp where I thought that the NPC guidance and logistics could be organised a lot better because it was very chaotic and there was no dedicated "manager" for them on site (essentially NPCs got a comprehensive briefing before hand but no guidance during the game, although unexpected things are bound to happen and no NPC really has a full overview of the story and game). Since I knew the organiser outgame, I suggested to give support for that part of the game. I couldn't play anymore, but I really didn't care, I was happy to be able to contribute to other players having a better experience and NPCs feeling they had someone to turn to when they had questions or didn't know what to do at a certain point.

[@sAssclown]

You and skill tree should work together on starting a larp! I hope that happens because I’ll probably wait for that to be my first experience.

[@SkillTree]

I second this!

[@lofidrone6374]

Third!

[@andrewverdon1818]

Fourth

[@Hazama27]

Wow, I gotta say I felt some whiplash after coming from Skill Tree's review of the event. They made it sound like a couple of mild troubles, but now it sounds as if it was a truly disappointing experience.

[@SkillTree]

Hey there! I get that for sure. We can only talk to our experiences and as we tried to get across, we basically had to run quests, so our player experience was super different. We tried to get across that the players, not the game, made it great, and we genuinely did have fun. That said, what Kramer has to say here is true and I do not disagree with any point he made. Most of those tidbits of info were hashed out in the discord over the past few weeks since the game ended, and the game runner has been radio silent in answering to any of it. I do hope it improves, as the community really is amazing and deserves better. Plus, I selfishly really want to continue to play with them all, lol.

[@greenhollyknight4846]

You have to remember that Skill Tree is new to LARP just like most of us watching this video. They are learning just as we are. Living Anachronism has done this before many times and has done similar things. This means he has a better understanding of how these things are suppose to go.

[@SkillTree]

@@greenhollyknight4846 this toooooo! Lol

[@lofidrone6374]

@@SkillTree I do hope that you and some others host your own LARP event, like you had mentioned in your review.

[@SkillTree]

@@lofidrone6374 that is the hope! We arr looking into the planning and seeing what is feasible

[@quater090]

This is a great video. You did an amazing job of being clear and concise about the issues, and who exactly was and was not to blame. It's videos like this that let me know I can trust you, and that even if you make a mistake, you will be honest and forthcoming with it. I'd love to see any larps that you can recommend and I'd love to see what kind of larp you yourself would make. Thank you for making this content that we sorely need.

[@sirrabbitthered8496]

I am starting a small high immersion larp here in Florida. And i find all of this very educational. You actually inspired me to do it. I would like any advice and tips you have. I want the best experience for everyone possible.

[@oldguygames6861]

I didn't join the discord until after Skill Tree posted their video. I had heard things from people who had been at year 1 and were very disappointed with the way things were run; lack of communication to staff, lack or preparation. I was hoping that it was first year learning issues; and I can see some of those bleeding into year 2; but not this badly. I am here for the player base for the most part now, and am hopeful something can be done; but only if the game runner starts to respond. 2 posts since game and those were only to pin a couple of posts is just not a good thing.

[@SkillTree]

Agreed. The radio silence is disheartening.

[@LKDesign]

Wow, this really looks like an event that cannot die off fast enough to make way for something considerably better. Glad to see you seeking a reasonable standard and not just accepting such a bad experience.

[@morgansmith1930]

Thank you for such a good video, Kramer - I'm so sorry it didn't go well, but as someone interested in getting into LARP, I really appreciated you taking the time to highlight what can work and what can't. Even if you didn't start your own LARP for a while, I'd love to hear your ideas on how it should be done. Even just learning the basics of roleplay etiquette would be fun. No reason we can't dream big. Thanks again!

[@Glorfindel_117]

Thanks for putting this together, and for delaying the video to finish it. I went to my first renfair yesterday and it was really cool! Now it looks like I'll be going to my first larp next week! You've been a huge piece in encouraging me to get started, and while I still dont have a kit yet, I'm at least planning one (gonna be making my own pair of those leather shoulder pads you made a video of, and hopefully a breastplate of my own design too!). So thanks for doing this channel, and for being honest, and for doing videos of styles or lengths that are more unusual for your channel identity. Really appreciate it.

[@leedogg6120]

Kramer, after watching Davvy Chappy's Reckoning 1 review I can see this is reoccurring. I heard your comments @ the end, & yes, it would be good if you started a local Larp. for next year with other experienced producers. Alot goes into this. I know it would take a full year to put this together. Maybe viewers would be willing to contribute.

[@evelina883]

I never comment things, but this hit very close to home for me. Pardon the paragraph-long comment. I went to my first and only official larp when I was 14, it was a kind of Hogwarts larp for kids/teens. I am not an actor, so playing would have difficult either way. But I remember feeling like our house out of the four was the only one without any actual plotlines to follow. Possibly due to lack of communication. As no one in my house had anything to do they decided to just cause as much chaos as possible (in a way that's not fun for anyone other than them, in and out of game) and ailenated literally everyone else, so no one even wanted to invite anyone from my house to tag along on their plotlines. It felt unwelcome, unimmersive and really lonely. My few friends were in an other house and I couldn't find them (and lacked the confidence and experience to start in game interactiontions with new characters) and the rest of my house already knew people or were half my age and the reason no one wanted to play with us. I have since avoided bigger larps due to fear of disappointment and discomfort although I am looking at a few larps this coming season.

[@kittenclaws5775]

Honestly as a long time larper and game runner I kinda wanna go in 2024 just to witness what they do next to maybe address this.

[@DevinFraze]

Super fair review! I attended with zero previous LARP experience and while I had fun, I was most disappointed by the lack of immersion. And now, hearing how it should have been, I feel really let down. Thanks for the thorough review.

[@christinasirignano9217]

Have you ever attended the Pennsic War? I feel like you would thoroughly enjoy that. I’m so sorry this event was such a disappointment. One can only hope they learn from the feedback and improve.

[@zacharylindahl]

Man I only have experience with the SCA and always thought it was a bit nitpicky that scadians adamantly refuse to call it a larp. I now know it is definitely not a larp. Hearing what was off about this one actually makes me really intrigued to try out a proper larp. Hopefully I can find one here in NC

[@LivingAnachronism]

Check out Weekend Warrior, I think it's in SC. It's a different style of game, and isn't everyone's cup of tea, but it doesn have a high standard of play and immersion, from what I've been told, and they've been around for I think 7 years.

[@zacharylindahl]

@@LivingAnachronism sweet thanks, I'll check it out!

[@dreamcatcher5661]

As a Boneknitter, and one of the few in the Vadurkin camp, I was extremely annoyed when the Bless spell was introduced. The mechanics behind it were wonky, it was limited to how many a team could make before the big battle, and it restricted who could make and cast the spell. The Vadurkin were screwed over because the Bless spell could only be made by spell scribes at first, then it was spell scribes and potionsmiths, of which we had none! Then it was amended to where we could get our specialized Bless spell approved and made by other factions, but it cost us 6 silver a spell! Eventually we were told that we could make them ourselves, but a person of holy upbringing had to seal them with their holy magic. Can you see the problem there? Kostyak and I were deemed the most "holy" out of the four of us, and we had to approve so many of the spell cards we made on top of buying back the original copy Kostyak had made for us in the first place and the second copy that was misspelled and incorrect that was made by a Hadrian. It cost me 10 silver to get both of those, and neither were sealed with holy magic. --- The sword conflict... Oh boy, where do I start with that one. *Screaming into the void*!!! How about no! I just won't talk about that train wreck of a plot. --- Communication sucked! I was late to jump on the proverbial band wagon for Reckoning, and it was only through Skill Tree's discord, and one very helpful person there, that I was even able to find the community discord for the game. I had sent out multiple emails about kit and if there was still time to get tickets prior to joining the discord and getting answers there. Thank you to the staff I talked to, you were great! If it wasn't for the few people I managed to get in contact with none of this would have been as "smooth" as it was for me. --- If it wasn't for my past experience as a larper with another game I would have been just as lost as the new players to this game. It was confusing and a mess. The only good thing to really come out of Reckoning for me were the friends I made at the event. If I do end up going next year should there be an R3, it will be solely for my friends and the Vadurkin family. --- Aside from the mishaps, I enjoyed my time as Eir. I got a lot of compliments on the scar I had and I think I started the scar trend for a lot of people and their characters. It was certainly interesting being the only Vadurkin who didn't belong to a clan and being called "The Crone" or "Rune Lady". Only thing I wish I could have made a person change to was getting more time to interact with you and the others in your group. I ran into you a lot on the battlefield, but never got the chance for rp, and I regret that considering I traveled with the others to get to Reckoning. By the way, you are amazing and I wouldn't have been able to go if it wasn't for you and your crew. Thank you so much! You are wonderful. I had a blast getting to talk with you on that first day of travel.

[@FinalDarkness5]

I'm really glad you made this video, you hit almost every point me and my friend while participating in the event. I do hope whoever is running the event listens to everything because I do really wish to see this larp succeed, but It makes me hesitant to want to invest so much for something that may not change. Also, I agree, I don't like using discord. It's a little too much for me. I would rather all the information be on the website. That makes so much more sense because not everybody has access to the discord and not everybody uses Instagram 😅

[@NicholasproclaimerofMessiah]

You are one of my favorite people on KZbin. I'm only one minute and twelve seconds in, and I am already enjoying how exceedingly well you are handling the matter (whatever it is). I'm not even interested in larping, but I love reason, and you are exceedingly reasonable, so I trust I'm gonna enjoy this. You handle things exceedingly well, and are an example to me of how I should handle controversy. Maybe someday I'll come close to meeting that high bar. I'm not flattering you here; I appreciate your virtue and effort.

[@LivingAnachronism]

Thanks very much Nicholas, I hope you enjoyed it

[@NicholasproclaimerofMessiah]

@@LivingAnachronism I did. Apparently I still have some interest in game mechanics.

[@a.lynnblumer5515]

Great, thorough review! I really appreciate this video. We're planning our first medieval larp for this fall and most of us are new to larping. Your honesty goes a long way.

[@joshicus_saint_anger]

Bummer. I appreciate your care and candor.

[@sayntgeorge]

I’m great full for your honesty, there is a need for people to bring to light their story about the games loss of control to management

[@CAPace09]

I wasn't able to go due to having burned bridges at the first event. I think I would have been disappointed if I had gone. The point about your friend being distressed because they thought they were playing the game wrong resonates for me as that was me after Reckoning 1. I'm sad that this event with a lot of potential is suffering

[@HNXMedia]

Just having a "passion for LARP" does not make someone an EVENT organizer. I have seen it for over 20 years in the combat sports world. Everyone who "likes combat sports" thinks they can be a promoter. Then they throw together a "fly by night" show that sucks and loses tons of money. It is clear that they have the budget (especially if you are charging your primary NPCs to be there). But, like so many of these things, they focus too much on "personal salary" rather than putting those funds into assembling a leadership team to properly run the event. This reeks of someone getting in over their head and not having a good command of organizational integrity. Like the 14 year old kid who is going to write the "greatest adventure ever," and gets 5 pages in and abandons it. It's a sham(e).

[@hollyingraham3980]

Then, for your own LARP, get a batch of jaded SCA autocrats to run catering, communications, etc. They've already had to do a medieval feast for a hundred when the scheduled cook was hospitalized after breakfast. They spit, they swear, they make it happen.

[@D_M_U]

Thank you for this video. I have been long considering LARPing, especially with my interest in history and fantasy and my 12 years of fencing. I now know what not to look for. Now, the only thing I have to do is to convince my wife to let me go away for the duration of a campaign! Congratulations on your marriage! I was overjoyed to see your update.

[@americantoadsarecool]

I think the addition of Grievously wounded for 90% of current “deaths” would be much better. Just make actual dying less common and more hard to do so it rarely ever happens on accident. Let bone knitters only heal mortal wounds but not death. It could be a time thing or a multi death save or something like dnd. And then you can have harder spells/potions to make for curing death in case people are really sad about accidentally dying.

[@jim7217]

Thanks Kramer for sharing your thoughts on this LARP, and structures around what a LARP should be. Appreciated, and was considering going next year, but...

[@dougmartin2007]

I'm at the part where he is telling us about the food and I am thinking of the Fyre Festival. It really sounds like people with little to no experience in events tried to run something big with exacting standards and a small budget.

[@liberatedlady4689]

Thank you so much for this Kramer for this post. Because of your post last year; I had put this on my Bucket List of things yo do, but now, I am not so sure. Again, thank you for keeping us on-top of this fest.

[@williamturechek2911]

Thank you for mentioning the need for the possibility of permanent character death in LARP..............I've seen exactly what you described happen in a couple of LARPs I tried out. If you screw up bad enough you should be able to be killed permanently not by your choice (not saying that has to be easy but there should be rules for it).

[@Locusthorde3000]

Man, I just saw a trailer/interview for this LARP and was tempted to look into this. If it's THIS BAD then nahhhhh

[@TheSparda81]

It's sad to see one of my kinsmen leave the game, and doubly so frustrating to see it happen over something so easily preventable. While I had a great time, as did the rest of clan Volmark, I don't think anyone will say that the blame doesn't land anywhere but squarely on the game runners shoulders. And it's especially saddening that a community that most larp game runners would beg, lie, steal and kill for, and the resources they provide, are squandered by one person just dithering about and deciding not to do his job as a game runner for x number of months. I think things will get better, and hope one day we get to all see each other again in the beautiful, messy world of the march. But that will depend entirely on what happens next. In the mean time, let another story be told.

[@LivingAnachronism]

Seconded, it was an honor to fight with the Volmark, and I hope things do improve in the future, because the March has much left to be explored.

[@Hpalindromeprojects]

I have never LARPed and I'm still on the fence about wanting to (I have no friends who are interested and I'm uncomfortable going alone) and I can just imagine if that was my first experience, it would probably turn me off the idea altogether. All the various elements of LARP can be really stressful and anxiety inducing anyway, so adding on the stress of insecurity in what's happening and its just a recipe for disaster

[@glennk.7348]

um, we’re ignoring the obvious… Living Anachronism needs to start a larp event! Based on your observations you’d run an awesome event!

[@tarricshadowwraith6330]

So I gotta say I'm a bit of a fan, don't always agree with your point of view but I do respect it and seeing this review of reckoning has continued to show me that my hopes of creating my own larp is going to continue to be a long and arduous process. It also kinda makes me wish I could get help from you to iron out some of the rules I've been attempting to that establish that I am not satisfied with.

[@gatompki912]

Just attended my first event this past weekend. I had a great time and want to attend more. Watching videos like this help to provided a frame of reference for event logistics and game play.

[@williamturechek2911]

I will just say that I regularly go to events with a 40$ door charge for 4 days that are better organized than this event sounds in every way. Food is better, safety protocols are better, legal protocols (underage checking, check in, waivers, etc) and all of the actual game aspects all are consistently better than what I have heard here. I certainly do not fault Kramer nor anyone else for telling it like it is, this is constructive criticism. I personally would not pay 100$ + for what I've heard described here and not ask for my money back if what I heard here happened (I was not at this event I mind you). It sounds to me like the folks running this game need to do some serious thinking about what has to go into the running of a large event (over 25 attendees) before doing this again, and have the wisdom to cancel an upcoming event if they are pretty sure they can't live up some basic standards addressed here by Kramer. Thank you Kramer for having the backbone to do this.

[@LivingAnachronism]

Thank you William. My first larp ever was a fairly large game (like 200 players I'd say) with a 50 dollar ticket. 12 games a year, included food, tents, and content geared specifically for new players to learn the ropes. I had some initial problems with the rules (thought they wer too complicated) but not only was I much less experienced then but they have also actually streamlined the rules for that game, so I will be attending again in June just to see how it has improved.

[@williamturechek2911]

@@LivingAnachronism I got lucky and found the best LARP system for me from the get go (came down to where I lived at the time and which systems were available in the general area and who my friends were). I, like you, started LARPing at age 14..........30 yrs. later I'm still playing in the same system mentioned at age 43.

[@NickLantzy]

Kramer, could you do a video on how you find events? I've tried just googling "larp events near me" without much success. There are some small chapters that do mostly weekend fighting sessions but I'm much more interested in a larger game that has more structure. Are events like Reckoning spread mostly by word of mouth or is there a central database for finding things of a similar scale (and hopefully higher quality)?

[@rlh766]

The Hearthguard at Weekend Warrior Experience would love to have you.

[@LivingAnachronism]

Good to hear! You guys look awesome, and the Hearthguard would be one of my top faction picks for WW

[@mpschmidtlein]

*coughs in Ranger*

[@fenrishound5939]

Its the dashcon of larps

[@workingmothercatlover6699]

Wow, that's a lot of problems you covered. I hope they get it together. On another note, I recently had quite an adventure literally in my own backyard. Because of the increase of rainfall this year, the grasses and weeds in my yard have gotten quite tall. My husband needed to mow it, but we knew stuff was buried in all the greenery. It was my quest to seek for anything that may cause harm for the mower. By the end of the quest, the end of my trusty staff was grass green from using it to part the grasses. Adventure CAN literally be found in your own backyard. 😊

[@mysticmeadow9116]

May I say that I have seen many of the problems you discussed seem to come from an internal source. In essence, a breakdown from within. A very good organization I know of was successful for decades. Throughout that time they depended heavily on ONE person, who by default was given the majority of tasks regarding a major Southeast annual event. No one else ever stepped up to help, volunteer or apprentice, There was no backup. That person suddenly (died) wasn't there any more and the following and subsequent yearly events have been near disasters for the organization. Many people left because of it and I don't know if they can recover. A group of people that left formed another organization and they are doing well with memberships increasingly regularly and the events planned are more frequent, larger and once again, fun. Sometimes a breakup is just what's needed to make a new start. I'm sorry the LARP you attended with your friends turned out the way it did and I hope it doesn't discourage them from attending other events. I can understand your disappointment. I honestly gasped when you said the Orcs left. Hopefully something good will come out of it.

[@SafetyBriefIncoming]

would love to have you at an SCA event sometime! if you havent been before i think you may enjoy it

[@Jandorek]

Europe larper here, over 30 larps attended, and still going on. Thank you for your video, awesome critical deconstruction. You are aware of what the industry standards should be, this is also problem here, sometimes that just gets fakked up. I hope you will attend good larps, of high quality. We also have decade running larps, and you can see decrease in quality, any anyone who speaks up is called an idiot, and nothing improves anyway. Usually, what is a good larp...when organizators put their blood and sweat, soul, into the game, they are working 3000% during larp, thinking overtime, their brains are buzzing constantly, this I found to be a new baseline, which others should follow.

[@JeremySpringfield]

On that last point, about creating a larp, Skilltree mentioned something about maybe trying to run something. What if you supported them, instead of trying to build something yourself?

[@LivingAnachronism]

I honestly wish them the best with that, and it's something to consider for the far future, perhaps...but IF i were to even join the staff of a game, I would probably want to start at a game that was already established, rather than trying to help run one that was starting from scratch. I think I would learn way more, more quickly, from helping or observing (intern style) a game that had already gotten over it's growing pains and minimized the chaos.

[@grogvaughan5649]

From several reviews I've seen and read about it reminds me of a saying I've been using for decades "the only difference between the Boy Scouts and the Army is adult supervision." I've been building and making my gear for a LARP adventure because I have a background in Bushcraft and both the Army and scouting. Due to my wife's health I'm not able to leave her for several days in a row.

[@katandiefiddle9657]

I appreciate the review. This game is a lot of money (for a new Larper) and I've wanted to play... but I think a lot of things that bothered you about it, would also have bothered me. Thank you for your honest opinion. :)

[@TheBaldParakeet]

Davvy sent us. Godspeed sir.

[@LivingAnachronism]

I enjoyed playing with Davvy, we had some cool moments, and I also enjoyed his review of the game

[@VelaiciaCreator]

Sounds like your typical top down issue to me. Game runner with their "masterpiece" but poor delegation and communication skills(or simply not fully aware of the fact that such things are VITAL for these things. Not enough staff, and then a string of bad luck highlighting that issue(and lack of contingencies). Expanded playerbase with a lot of new-to-larp members... All of this resulting in the issues you brought to light. There may also have been a change of staff members in that some people were unavailable who were able to fill in the weaknesses of the structure the first go around. It is a bit of a shame that this could cripple the LARP going forward since the issues at play have rather simple fixes(if you're not plain lazy or aversive to change). Thorough planning complete with backup options with clear definite possibility if the previous options fall through... Ensuring that resources are able to keep up with demands within the game, or taking such limitations and using that to counter the "easy route"(talking about heal spam) before anything becomes too ingrained... And finally of course, a proper introductory phase that kicks off the story while also either teaching the new players or providing something that will do so on the side or throughout the event. Sorry for the rambling... I've just had a fair amount of time over the years contemplating how I would run a variety of LARP events so I can spot the parts(from your perspective) where this event stumbled. Hell, the Uhaul issue would be easily solved if either someone had a lockpick set or perhaps found a way to hand-wave immersive use of a player's kit(if any had it ofc). It's a shame that the actual preparation of this appeared to be pure procrastination and a rush job.

[@xenomorph6599]

Idea: for out of game announcements, so as not to break the immersion, have particular npc scribes with a denoted uniform or pin or something make the announcements or post them in the public square with a specific seal in game so people can still interact with the news and know where it came from without being pulled out of game

[@LivingAnachronism]

Fantastic idea, love it

[@pyrosniper6431]

I think the Weekend Warrior Experience would be worth looking into. As a disclaimer, I have never been there, but I would like to go as soon as possible. It seems to be what Reckoning has the potential to be. It's run by Fell & Fair Productions, who are a seasoned film production team, and it's been going for several years now. I believe it would be worth your time.

[@ModernMarineFilms]

Weekend Warrior Experience is quite good, the rising cost of the tickets without adding another day to the event is concerning, but Zan and Meg can at least get an event going. Player Agency, and Faction Agency is lacking and the goals and objectives of the battles and story need to be better communicated to the player base, but the player base of WeWa is amazing and for the most part the best I’ve been a part of. Communication is much better, though don’t expect for even a faction to have much of an impact on the game runners decision for what happens in the story. Combat can be a bit hard at times, and it isn’t the most non-com friendly.

[@Phrogie]

I went to the first Weekend Warrior Experience, before whatever the "Great Drama" was between the event leaders (and frankly, I don't want to know). And based on the website and a lot of other factors, I would have thought that Reckoning was done by the same people. Similar factions with the same colors (names changed) and expected kit. Same lack of Player Agency. It's possible that this had changed since then, but we, the players, were literally extras in whatever movie they were making (which, to my knowledge, never even happened... again, likely because of whatever drama was going on behind the scenes), and if we even tried to affect the "script" that the NPCs were running, we would be shot down. And not even in a story way: we were just told we were not even allowed to try anything we wanted to attempt. Reckoning? Sounds a LOT like that. Listen, I don't care what gamerunners want to do... but hell, just be honest with the player base. If this is a script people need to follow, then at least give something of a clue, so people aren't banging their heads against the wall. If you just want extras for your "movie" or whatever, then seriously, don't make them pay for the privilege. Especially that much. If I hadn't already been an experienced LARPer, that would have soured my experience to the point of never trying the hobby again. Kramer, I value your opinion, and I thank you for an honest evaluation.

[@rlh766]

I’m going into my 4th year at Weekend Warrior Experience. It’s always a good time.

[@michaelhorton7684]

I’ve never been able to go to The Reckoning but I’m hoping to go next year. But I understand your disappointment! It also disappoints me that they drove you to decide not to attend the next event since I was hoping I could meet you there. I definitely understand though! Hopefully they do improve!

[@prototypega8257]

Hi i just found you today and haven´t even watch this VIdeo till the 20 sec ,but others wich i liked a lot. I asked my selfe, if you are from the Us? Becouse i´m from germany and wouldn´t probably notice if you would have an accent. If you are i was just a bit curious, that you have Larp and these stuff over there to. I never heared that there are so advanced communitys and you sound like its not uncommen. You teached me a lot new , about imersive costume creation for the game i create so thanks alot.

[@temsmoss3925]

I don't want to name other channels as not to cause any trouble between them but hearing your take on the events vs other channels that were there is interesting because you paint an entirely different picture of the event than other videos I've seen. They focus on the good parts (which you do too) but they left out a lot of things or didn't go into much detail of the negative experiences which, while "viewer friendly" and more positive I feel detracts from the deserved criticism and paints the event as something it was not which in turn just draws more people in to what seems like a poorly run event. It's disappointing to see but I'm glad you're painting a more realistic picture.

[@smoore6461]

You are a VERY good person. Kramer, I would add, however, that you are not an actor and not just a player in this situation, but a paying customer who was not given what you paid for. Clearly, it's not the staffs fault as you have made clear, but someone got paid.

[@cubancavalier3051]

Never been to a LARP but I think holding people accountable to a review of a product they sold (the product being the game) is the best way to see improvement of the product and because you are entitled to a review of a product if it’s good or bad. Hopefully the people who can make change see this video and take it as a boost to improve the work for next year!

[@brannanvitek1035]

Loved this one Kramer. I'm sure it was tough to voice all of this, but you did an excellent job! I haven't even LARPed yet, and this served as a great primer for the expectations one should have going in. I'm thinking about that $80 meal ticket though... Wednesday through Saturday, right? That's around 10 meals. I think Reckoning may have *undercharged* for your food. Ten dollars is your average fast food combo nowadays. If they want a caterer to provide anachronistic food, it'll likely run more than that per-meal. If I'm going on a vacation for four days, *only* 80 bucks for all my food seems too good to be true! Sounds like there may have been some financial issues plaguing the catering situation. Any thoughts from people experienced with event organization?

[@jr-f2354]

I don't larp (but I do write and do online rp). I have no interest in larp, but I totally watched this video start to finish! I found it to be constructive criticism to something I'm sure you were very disappointed with. It sounds to me like the solution is to collaborate with your community and run your own event! You seem creative, talented, and have the knowledge base. I bet you could make something amazing, especially learning from the mistakes of this particular event.

[@byronrazor]

Conservatively, if there were about 350 people at about $260 per person is about $91000.00. I feel your concerns as well as safety issues a plenty, are well founded. I hope that they see this video and take it as it should be, as advise to change things for the better.

[@rebilacx]

It looks like the tickets for Reckoning 2024 are more expensive and they don't cover catering anymore.

[@ks-mn4tw]

Skill Tree had talked about how a lot of what was promised was not delivered. Also, people had to make up side quests to actually have any fun, because the events had nothing planned. I think they had issues putting this years event together, and instead of canceling and issuing refunds, they just went ahead with the event.

[@abstragento0087]

I could imagine that the rising costs for food could be responsible for the bad circumstances but in the end to few people have a sense of responsibility when it comes to the money of others so better spend it on ur own terms this is advertising to do ur own thing and don't join the weak visions of others

[@shaunsilverleaf2035]

I would love to see you and Skill Tree create a LARP, you both know what a great LARP is, and what it should have. Make it so!

[@TheRealMonkeyrogue]

LARPs should start small. Locals and close friends coming in. It needs to be run through its paces long before you open it up. Then you invite seasoned LARPers, others groups, other teams to come see it and give you feedback. Then you go back, burn it down and redo it. Because nothing ever works right the first time. I've never seen one succeed that didn't grow slowly.

[@LivingAnachronism]

Heartily agreed

[@Beanjast]

I'm always sad when someone has a bad LARP. It's such a fulfilling hobby and the people running them have a lot on their plate for sure; but the smallest to most popular games in the UK are run far better and for FAR less money. In my own experience, and anectodally.

[@Beanjast]

The car happened THREE TIMES A DAY!? They couldn't have brought stuff once a day (before time-in?) if bringing it in the car was necessary at all!?

[@ronhall1484]

I’m not sure if you know, or if it’s been brought up in comments. There will be new game runners next year. They have acquired Reckoning. Yes, communication (approvals, etc) is currently slow. But, they are communicating. Last night, Vadurkin had a meeting with one of them about lore. I feel it will be better next year

[@Nekog1rl]

In my very early youth, my friends and I played "Wizardry--live!" Not really LARPing but close enough. Like imagine 7-10 year olds playing together. So that's my baseline, and wow... what you're describing is a travesty. I'm sorry. That said I was genuinely surprised that your response to "Will you run a LARP" was a maybe. I anticipated no, full stop. Definitely not because of this experience but because you are an intelligent individual with the very background you list--and the fundamental desire to get it right. So I laud you for not dismissing the possibility out of hand. I have yet to really look for LARPing events locally. My own instinct says I will be excluded because I'm not young and able-bodied (I'm 50 and broke my ankle a couple years ago--game changer). But frankly the flame is still burning, in no small part because of you. Yes, this was a "negative" review. But it tells me there are players and game showrunners that are thinking of us. So thank you for at least helping to keep the spirit of play alive in me!

[@abbottsretreat3377]

Just wondering if you're planning on making a top 5 larps to attend video?

[@RawhideRohirrimAndRanger3777]

Me and my brother are new to larp and were planing on going to reckoning larp next year but now we think we should wait. In the mean time do you recommend any larp's anywhere in the US( we have to travel anyway, their are none by us) Its a great video, in a bitter/ sweet way.