“I feel so unnoticed and I never get plot.” It’s a frequent complaint heard from players at multiple LARPs (live action role playing games) in multiple genres, and no one likes feeling ignored. If you feel frustrated about lack of plot for your character or simply want to improve your experience at a LARP, here are some ideas to consider.

What traits will help you get plot for your character in a game?

  • Exceptional roleplay – Amazing RP gets noticed. This doesn’t mean you have to be the center of attention at all times, but your character should react as befits his or her situation. Engaged and immersive RP is rewarded with plot in many games.
  • Costuming decisions – Bold costuming choices can help you get noticed. This doesn’t mean you have to shell out a lot of money for a noticeable piece. One of my main character’s most identifiable costume pieces is her mask, which cost about $7.
  • Real life talent – Everyone has real life talents, and few people get to use their real life talents every day. Why not enjoy your favorite hobby (besides LARPing) as you LARP? Bring an out of game talent such as drawing, dancing, singing, or even banking into the game. You’ll become known and noticed for it.
  • Unique use of game system – Find a way to use the game system in a new way without breaking it. Pick a combination of traits or skills that seems otherwise unlikely. Focus very obviously on one particular path or make a bold choice. Those observing you are sure to notice, and it will also allow you to control your character’s standing with other PCs to a degree.
  • Interaction with relevant NPCs – Seek out and research NPCs who are relevant to your character’s goals and daily life. You can relate information to the NPCs (and plot and staff) by having discussions in character.
  • Active participation – When you’re interested in plot, participate. If you have the opportunity to initiate any events or interactions that involve you in general plot, take advantage of it. This shows that you’re interested and also a worthy investment of time for those potentially writing for you.
  • Character backstory – If your LARP of choice accepts character backstories, write and submit one. This will give the game’s writers something to work with. Some LARPs allow letters to NPCs or character journals on their websites. You can also use these to participate and communicate information about your character’s interests – and you may receive plot based on that.
  • Patience – Whether you’re writing a poem or a plot for someone, there’s nothing more aggravating than constant pressure to produce. Don’t badger others about your lack of plot; just inquire or remind them every now and again if you haven’t gotten anything.
  • A presence that engages other PCs – In large games in particular, personal plot works best when it still involves multiple people. If your character has developed connections with others (or a particular group of people), you may get a module or some information directed at you while still involving the whole group. At large games, staff or cast has to consider the number of people they are required to entertain. If your personal plot can’t entertain a large group, it may come more sporadically.
  • Give helpful feedback – Most people who run games greatly appreciate praise and constructive feedback. What could they do to make the game better for you? What do you want to see happen more often? Sometimes you have to provide interaction in order to get what you want.

Now that you know what you could do to get more plot, what could you do to improve your chances of it? What else has worked for you? Please share your thoughts in a comment.

This post was originally published on Examiner.com