[RPG] Advantages and disadvantages of using props to represent Magic at larp

larpprops

As the question says I'd like to know what the advantages and disadvantages of using a prop for magic spells are.

I'm specifically interested in the idea of throwing bean bags at people, and why it isn't done more often.

Best Answer

I've never LARPed, but I think I can still offer some input on this issue. If I'm totally out of place with my ideas then just disregard :)

I can imagine why using projectiles to represent spells isn't done very often. Using your beanbag example, it is very un-spell-like:

  • When you throw (cast) the spell, it can be dodged, blocked, deflected, or caught. Some fantasy settings may support this (catch = counterspell?), but many do not.
  • After it's been thrown, there's a physical object lying on the ground that anyone could pick up and reuse. Or to "recast" the spell you'd need to go pick it up. This deviates strongly from the concept of a magic spell.
  • Even if you consider fired projectiles unusable and all the beanbags lying around are "out of the game," you are still creating a tripping or slipping hazard.

I think props could be used to represent spells, but you'd need something different than a thrown projectile.

For a fantasy setting where a magic user has a finite, replenishable resource than can be consumed to cast spells, I would recommend a super soaker where the water is your mana and you verbally communicate which spell you are casting.

For those with "memorized" spells that can only be used once, I'd suggest water balloons of different colors.

Obviously these suggestions are suited more toward outdoor fair-weather play. For indoor or colder settings there are air cannons that would work nicely.

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