Wargaming: An Introduction

by Neil Thomas

Wargaming is concerned with simulating historical conflicts through the medium of miniature figures fighting battles over three dimensional terrain, their movement and combat being regulated by rules which create historically accurate battles. Since the 1950s, the hobby has grown exponentially and now enjoys a widespread following across the world. Although the rise in computerised wargaming has transformed some aspects of the hobby, the traditional table-based wargame continues to go from strength to strength. Neil Thomas, a seasoned wargamer himself, offers practical advice on how to collect and paint wargames armies, together with all the information and rules needed to fight wargames over a huge historical timespan. He offers simple, playable and realistic rules for a variety of historical periods, from ancient warfare to the Second World War. A selection of colour photographs serves to illustrate the historical periods covered and convey something of the colourful spectacle of wargaming.

Genres: Games

Paperback

First published February 1, 2005

Reviews

[Chuck · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic book for both the newcomer to the hobby, and the old hand. It features several groups of chapters, each a group of three different chapters, following the pattern of one chapter introducing a historical period and it's warfare styles and types, one chapter describing a set of rules for that historical period, and one chapter listing some army lists for use with the rules. These are preceded by some introduction to the concept of wargaming, including basics on terrain and figures. They are followed in the end with tips on where to get materials, not least of all the toy soldiers themselves.

The meat are the chapters on period, rules, and army lists. Each is good, and each ruleset feels different. They all have a refreshing and beloved older Charles Grant or Donald Featherstone feel to them. The periods covered are Ancient (and medieval), Pike & Shot, Napoleonic, American Civil War, Skirmish (including Colonial), and WW2.

An excellent book for any wargamer to acquire, for the refreshing read, the nostalgia of coming to the subject with newcomers' eyes, and the fabulous photos. A win from Neil Thomas.

[Eric · Rating 5 out of 5]

I bought this book many years ago and find myself referring to it a lot. I think this is because it reminds me of the wargaming books I read growing up in the 70s. It is a labour of love by an individual who likes history and playing with model soldiers. He provides simple rules and advice for the beginner but also much for the more experienced wargamer to consider. I can imagine a youngster who is interested in history coming across this book and starting a lifelong hobby. There is no hard sell or glitzy presentation here; the book relies on you bringing your imagination and enthusiasm to it. If you know your history and like to play with model soldiers then you will enjoy this book. I know I do!

[Leonard Pierce · Rating 3 out of 5]

I bought this for when I had an insanely misguided notion of reenacting the Second World War out of common household objects found in my kitchen and living room. The idea was bad, but the book is okay.