[1] It utilizes Layar, an augmented reality smartphone application, QR codes located at particular real-world sites, or a phone's web browser, to facilitate games which require players to be in close physical proximity to predefined "nodes".

A node, referred to by the developers as a Virtual Point of Interest (vPOI), is a point in space defined by a set of map coordinates; fAR-Play uses the GPS function of a player's smartphone — or, for indoor games, which are not easily tracked by GPS satellites, specially-created QR codes— to confirm that they are adequately near a given node.

[2] fAR-Play relies on a number of open- and closed-source web technologies as tools to create, and enhance the users' experience.

Layar is the recommended client-side frontend for delivering game content to the player; it is available on Android and iOS, which covers over 91% of smartphones.

Depending on the design of the particular game, the player may instead use a dedicated QR code scanner; the developers recommend BeeTagg, but any such application will do.

However, the nonspecific nature of nodes, the many options they offer for content delivery, and the open design of the platform are such that these elements can be developed extensively.

In order to participate in the locative aspects of fAR-Play games, users must have an Android or iOS mobile device and access to wireless internet.

If the player is utilizing a QR scanning application that has a built in browser, they will be required to log into fAR-Play through the app.

Layar is a free to download augmented reality app, containing a built in QR code scanner, which enables its users to participate in fAR-Play games.

The representations on screen expand in size as the player approaches the node destination, simulating relative distance.

By visiting https://archive.today/20131123223038/http://farplay.ualberta.ca/far-play/ on a mobile device, players will be presented with a fully realized user interface, permitting full interaction with the games.

By clicking on one of the nodes, the player is shown to a screen with a mapped location of the vPOI, an in-depth description of it, and hints.

fAR-Play has the ability to implement achievements, which can reward players with extra points for completing certain tasks.

Game creators can set a "Catch Limit" for each vPOI, which restricts the number of times each node may be captured.