What is LARP?

Roleplaying games are games in which players assume the roles of characters in a fictional setting and interact together to collaboratively tell a story. An example of a popular tabletop roleplaying game is Dungeons & Dragons.

Live Action Roleplaying is a type of roleplaying game where the participants physically portray their characters. Essentially, it's a big game of make-believe using a set of agreed upon rules. For some LARPs, these social interactions represent the entirety of the game (often referred to as "Theatre Style" or "parlor LARPs"). Other LARPs incorporate more physical adventures and "boffer" combat (referred to as "Live Combat" or "boffer LARPs"). Rules vary between games, but boffer combat is when players use padded weapons (aka a "boffers") to strike opponents.

LARPs are not games of "assassin" or an elaborate "escape room" experience. There aren't teams or individuals who "win" the game. The emphasis at a LARP is on dramatic roleplaying and the interactions between players. Most live games involve a large number of players (from thirty up to several hundred) who embody their characters while they engage with each other and go on adventures. Sometimes characters will accomplish goals, and sometimes they won't. A story wouldn't be very interesting if the heroes never risked failure; and it makes their successes all the more meaningful.

What type of LARP is Citadel?

Citadel is a Live Combat LARP so we use boffer weapons (and even a few Nerf guns) in our games. We feel that Live Combat better emulates the immersion and excitement we want to invoke. However, sometimes there are specific events where live combat would be impractical or unsafe, and in those cases we choose to favor a more Theater Style system.

Is this dangerous?

No. Although a Live Combat LARP includes some inherent risks, it is no more risky than hiking through the woods or playing a team sport. Safety is a top priority at Citadel. Although we try to physically simulate as much of the action as possible, ultimately, this is a game designed for everyone to enjoy. We have rules in place to mitigate specific safety risks, and are constantly evaluating our game space, rules, and other aspects of the game to ensure everyone stays safe.

Do I need acting or roleplaying experience?

Not at all! Many people who LARP have played tabletop roleplaying games or other RPGs, but many others have not. And no one is expected to be a trained actor. This is just a chance for ordinary people to pretend to be heroes (or scoundrels) for a little while. Just come with an open mind and an adventurous spirit! At Citadel, we try to foster a welcoming environment for new and old players alike.

Can I team up with my friends?

Of course! When you create your character's backstory, we encourage you to have connections both to the world and to other players. A great way to do that is to join our Discord group and ask other players how you can form connections with them. It can be a lot of fun, and often is a lot easier to roleplay, when you can skip the "get to know you" phase and jump right into a friend or family relationship!

What do I do about costuming and props?

At Citadel we want to create as immersive an environment as possible, so we do ask that players make an effort at having a good looking costume. It is totally fine to have a simple costume when you start, and build on to it over time.

For safety purposes, Citadel does have specific rules for weapons and armor, which can be found in the Rules section (Props & Gear).

Ideas for costuming can be found on the Nation pages.

How does magic work?

Many boffer LARPs, including Citadel utilize some form of a "throw and shout" system. The caster throws a "packet" (a soft cloth sachet filled with birdseed) at the target of the spell and says the relevant spell verbal. It only affects the target if the packet hits. At Citadel, it is also possible for a weapon attack to be infused with magic (called a "spellstrike").

Beyond these basic mechanics listed above, Citadel has multiple ways a character can interact with magic in play. Check out the Magic Skills section for more information.

How do I create a character and "level up"?

Citadel uses a "class-free skill-based system". You start with a specific amount of "build" or "Experience Points" (aka "XP"), and then can pick and choose what you want your character to have from the skill lists. Characters receive more XP at the end of every event they attend (or pay for if they had to miss the game).

Some skills have prerequisites that must be purchased before you are eligible for them. See the Character Creation page for more information and step-by-step instructions for creating a new character.

Can I play a monster or villain?

At Citadel, all monsters and villains are non-player characters (NPCs). That doesn't mean you can't play a character who has differing goals or beliefs from other players. Conflict and drama are part of the fun of roleplaying! However, although Citadel doesn't explicitly forbid player vs player ("PvP"), it is not the focus of our game, nor the environment we wish to foster.

If you enjoy playing monsters or villains - then we highly encourage you to NPC! All player characters are also required to do a short shift NPCing at each event, so you can scratch that nefarious itch then.

What happens if my character dies?

Citadel is a high fantasy game, so there may be a chance for a dead character to be resurrected. If that doesn't occur, however, then you would have to create a new character. This may mean you NPC the rest of the event and join the next event as your new character, or it might mean you create a new character right away. We'll work with you to determine what would fit best with your desires and the narrative of the game.

Where do you play?

We play at various state parks in the Chattanooga, TN area. See our Site Information page for more information about specific sites.

What ages can play?

Citadel is primarily an adult game, and so welcomes all players who are ages 18 and up. Exceptions may be made on a case-by-case basis. Any request for an exception must be submitted in writing and may be granted or denied entirely at the discretion of Citadel Staff. If a child under the age of 18 is granted permission to attend, they are required to have a parent or guardian on site, and they and their parent/guardian must adhere to all guidelines and rules set forth by staff.

What if I have a disability?

Since Citadel is a Live Action, boffer LARP and we play at state parks that don't always have the most luxurious accommodations, there are some inherent risks and limitations for our game.

If you have any special requirements or needs, please speak to a staff member before attending and we will accommodate you to the best of our ability.

I have more questions!

Then Contact Us! We love Citadel and LARPing and are always happy to talk about it!

You can use the contact form, send us an email, or join our Discord group!