Death and healing:

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When a character is critically wounded during a Burning Herald LARP event, referees will provide them with a small card describing the nature and severity of the injury. This card acts as a guide for roleplay, allowing the player to accurately portray the effects of their wound, whether it be pain, reduced mobility, or other complications. Players are encouraged to lean into this for immersion, responding appropriately to their condition and seeking help from an in-game physician or healer. The physician will then use the information on the card to determine how best to treat the injury, creating an interactive and engaging experience for both parties.

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It is important that injured players actively pursue treatment within a reasonable timeframe, as untreated critical wounds may worsen over time. This escalation can be reflected through updated instructions from referees or changes in roleplay, potentially leading to more serious conditions that require complex or resource-intensive care. If an injury is ignored entirely, it may eventually result in the character’s death. This system encourages timely action, cooperation with other players, and adds meaningful consequences to combat and decision-making, while still maintaining a structured and fair approach to in-game health and recovery. 

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Character death is a significant moment in any LARP event and should be treated with respect for both the story and the players involved. When a character dies, the player should clearly indicate this in roleplay and avoid further interaction as that character unless directed otherwise by referees. Death allows for powerful storytelling and can have meaningful impact on the wider game world, so players are encouraged to engage with it thoughtfully rather than trying to avoid or undermine the outcome. Referees may provide guidance on how to handle the scene and ensure everything is conducted safely and fairly.

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After a character’s death, players are encouraged to return to the field with a new character, which can be easily made by discussing with the game team who may be able to give some fun options or alternatives with additional story to affect the game. This allows the player to continue participating in the event with a fresh perspective. Alternatively, they may choose to join the crew for the remainder of the weekend, assisting with running encounters, supporting the game environment, or helping referees behind the scenes. Both options are valued and help maintain the flow and enjoyment of the event for everyone. This flexibility ensures that even after a character’s story has ended, the player can remain involved and contribute to the shared experience.

 

An example of a traumatic wound card where a leg has been wounded: