What is a freeform?

Backstage Business - a freeform larp about a 1980s hair-metal band

A freeform larp is a type of live-action roleplaying game.

Freeforms differ from other types of larp in that they usually*:

• Involve prewritten characters for all players, with interwoven background and plot
• Take place indoors
• Have no characters that aren't played by the players
• Last for about three hours
• Use simple rules to resolve things like combat
• Have minimal costuming or set dressing requirements

(*Usually, because there are always exceptions.)

Players are given prewritten characters with a detailed background and information about other characters, along with goals or objectives that they are trying to achieve during the game.

A game by other names

I've also heard these described as "litform" or "interactive theatre" or "secrets and powers larps" or "chamber larps" or "parlour larps."

While I'm sure there are nuances, they are all broadly the same thing.

A revolution in The Torch of Freedom

Before play

Before the game, each player will receive a briefing document which describes their character, what they know about the other characters, the setting, and the situation. It will usually provide some suggested goals.

Since it takes some time to digest all this information, the briefing is usually provided at least a week before, and it is considered perfectly acceptable to keep the briefing document handy for reference during the game. Brief details of your character may be provided further ahead to allow players to source a suitable costume.

Playing a freeform

Freeforms are non-contact games, with play generally occurring via players talking in-character with each other in small groups. If a randomisation mechanic is needed — such as if two characters get into a fight — then rock-paper-scissors is often used. (Freeform larps emphasise roleplaying over mechanics.)

Some games give significance to items which may be represented by props or cards, and some grant characters special abilities (so a character who is a boxer may have a card that lets them automatically win a fight up to three times during the game).

Children of the Stars - a first-contact game