LARPers use a lot of special terminology, which can sometimes be confusing for newcomers. Below you'll find the most commonly used terms and their meanings:
IC / OC
IC (In Character): Everything you do as your character, so within your role. For example, your behavior, clothing, and decisions.
OC (Out of Character): All out-of-game matters. This is, for example, your everyday clothing or actions that have nothing to do with your character.
You can also say you're "IC" or "OC" depending on whether you're in character or not.
Time In / Time Out
Time In: The moment when the game starts and you fully step into your character.
Time Out: The moment when the game is over. For example: "We're going time-in at 20:00" or "We're time-out now."
NPC and Monsters
NPC (Non Player Character): Characters that are not played by players, but by organizers or volunteers.
Monsters: An alternative name for NPCs.
Monster Tent: The space where NPCs gather for briefings, getting dressed, or other preparations.
GMs
Game Masters (GMs): The people who run the event and ensure the game runs smoothly.
Combat
Combat: Roleplay fights during LARP.
Example: "I feel like having some combat" or "I have a combat role."
Props / Physreps
Props: Accessories used during the game.
Physreps: Physical representations of weapons or objects, often used in combat to ensure safety.
Post-LARP Blues
Post-LARP Blues (afterdip, LARP blues, 'Monday feeling'): A temporary feeling of mild depression or longing after an intense LARP experience, caused by mental, emotional, or physical involvement in the game.
Time-Freeze
Sometimes the game masters call a Time-Freeze to temporarily pause the game, for example to set up the area or prepare monsters.
During a Time-Freeze, time stands still for your character. You close your eyes and cover your ears.
The Time-Freeze ends when the game masters call "Time In"; from that moment on, time runs normally again for your character.
Hand Gestures During Time-In
During roleplay (Time-In) you sometimes encounter NPCs or players who use hand gestures to show how they relate to the game:
Hand in the air: This character is OC. Your character doesn't see or hear this person; you ignore them completely.
Finger in the air: This person is invisible to your character. You might be able to hear or smell them, but you pretend not to notice their presence.
Summary
This glossary helps you quickly get familiar with LARP terminology. By understanding the IC/OC status, Time In and Time Out, and hand gestures, you can participate more easily and experience the game in a realistic and safe way.
