Choosing a warband/faction
Back to the Tome of LARP
A lot of games are structured around player groups. This is especially important as the game size gets bigger. To get a sense of identity the groups will normally have widely different approaches to costume, outlook, structure and roleplay. It is important to choose a group that will allow you to enjoy your LARP experience.
Appearance
If you have decided on a certain look for your character then sometimes the simplest way to choose a group is that one where you fit in. If you are the only viking in a group of samurai elves it will be a bit weird. Most groups try to have some degree of similarity between all members. Also if you don't have kit yet joining a group with the style that you are after is a great way to find out the best places to get or make what you need.
Outlook
Each group develops a certain culture of behaviour and this will affect how they act towards the rest of the players and the game itself. It is best that you join a group that mixes with how you want to act. If the outlook of the group is "we want to be the bad guys so we are fine with being killed all the time" this is not a group to join if you want to win.
Structure
Some people like being told what to do but others hate it. Neither is right or wrong but you need to know what the group is about before you join. This is similar to outlook in many respects but covers some other areas too. One big one is if things are voted on and by whom, not every group will be a democracy. Another important factor can be the size of the group, often it can be harder to stand out in a larger group.
Roleplay
The level and focus of roleplaying is also a big divide for some groups. It is also an issue as games get bigger it is harder to have all groups wanting the same things. So if you are after good quality RP and lots of fighting/action/questing you might need to compromise somewhat. This also extends to if the group is trying to portray a consistent theme, for example a self righteous group of paladins.
Fighting style
Often a uniting factor if a group might be its fighting style. If you want to be a lightly armoured skirmisher then a group of knights may not be the best bet and the same in reverse. This isn't always a deal breaker as many groups need versatility in members but it is a factor to consider.