What is Live Action Role Playing?
Role playing is “let’s pretend” with rules. It is usually done
using a rules system and dice. These games are called role playing
games. Live action role playing is the same thing, only instead of
using dice, we actually act out what our characters are doing. If we
succeed, they succeed. Often there will be others trying to stop you.
Much of live action role playing centers around combat, but we also
role play social situations and can even have some political intrigues
and other role-playing situations. Just remember that it is a game and
after the game we want everyone to still be friends!
Is there more to HFS than simulated combat?
YES! There is much more to the High Fantasy Society! The Kingdom of
ShadowMist and other HFS groups have regular medieval style courts,
feasts, demonstrations, and revels. ShadowMist is working on starting
a Craft Hall where players can learn medieval style Arts and Sciences,
such as costume-making, medieval dancing, and cooking. HFS organizations
have frequent tournaments where members can compete with other members to prove their physical prowess. Cultural events are sponsored where
members can display their craft skills and compete for awards with other
members. Regular camp-outs are held where members can interact with other
players from other kingdoms and stay in character for the entire weekend.
How do I get involved?
Come to the next battle game. It is a good idea to be prepared, however.
At a minimum you will need to be familiar with the
rules
and some idea of what kind of character you will be playing.
See our page for
getting started.
What should I do before my first battle game?
Ideally you will have the following information ready before your
first battle game:
You also may wish to bring some money. HFS battle game weapons are cheap and easy to make. You will want at least one weapon. We have some loaner weapons, but it is better to have your own. We will offer to teach you to make them, or you may find someone who wishes to sell one. Generally a plain weapon costs about $5.00 to make, including cloth covering. Money may also be used to purchase snacks from the group. This is one of our fund raising activities to help provide for events and other expenditures.
You should also ensure you bring a signed waiver of liability with you if you intend of fighting in the battle game. If you are under 18, you must have it signed by a parent or legal guardian. It is preferred that your parent or guardian sign the waiver at the game so that there can be no question about the signature being authentic. There is no minimum age to play, but you must be at least 14 to fight. There are some activities for those under 14, and they are encouraged to attend.
Who can join?
Anyone is welcome to join; however, you must be at least 14 years of age to participate in
battle games. If you are younger, you may
come out and participate in other ways. There are a variety of ways
to be involved and battle games are only the most visible. So if you
see a chance to start something new like an Armers’ Guild or a dance
troupe, do it! We want as wide a selection of activities as possible.
Also note the women are welcome to join the fighting. Some of the best
fighters in all the HFS kingdoms are women.
Do I have to wear the funny clothes?
We would prefer that everyone wears garb. Not everyone has garb,
however, so we insist only that players above first level must wear garb.
We have some loaner garb available for new players, but not much. Garb
makes the game more immersive and also gets more attention which will
draw more potential members! It’s also fun to dress up and pretend to
be someone else for an afternoon.