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Even though this website seems to spend an awful lot of time talking about sci-fi and fantasy, I am a historical wargaming enthusiast at heart. It was recreating battles in Vietnam thirty five years ago as a kid in my garage that drew me into wargaming. And so I’m always drawn to a good historical.

When we think about history, we often visualize grand battles, brave soldiers, and the strategies that shaped the world we know today. But what if there was a way to not just read or hear about these battles but to relive them? Enter the world of historical miniature wargaming.

• Reliving the Past: Wargaming allows us to step back in time and recreate some of the most iconic moments in history. From the fierce combat during the Napoleonic Wars to the strategic intricacies of the American Civil War, historical wargaming is a window to the past.
• Games That Bring History Alive: Companies like Warlord Games have crafted games like Black Powder and Bolt Action that give enthusiasts the tools to bring these historical moments to their tabletops. Imagine setting up your miniature soldiers, planning out tactics, and watching the Battle of Gettysburg or the Battle of Waterloo unfold right in front of you!
• Blurring Reality and Fantasy: But it’s not just about strict historical recreation. Some games blend real historical events with alternate scenarios or even introduce fantasy elements, allowing players to ask “what if?” and explore outcomes that never happened in real life.
• A Growing Community: The historical wargaming community is vast and welcoming. From those who are passionate about historical reenactment and accuracy to those who love the idea of blending history with fantasy, there’s a place for everyone.

Whether you’re a history buff, a fantasy enthusiast, or someone curious about the melding of the two, this journey promises a rich tapestry of stories, strategies, and scenarios.

Dive into Historical Wargaming: Keeping True to the Past

Black Powder: Reliving Iconic Battles

Read our review of Black Powder here. Pick up your copy here.

For many, the allure of historical miniature wargaming begins with the beautifully detailed miniatures and intricate scale models, but it truly comes alive with Black Powder. Published by Warlord Games, Black Powder transports players back to some of the most decisive battles in history.

Black Powder is one of my favorite historical wargames because of it applies so well to so many different places, times, and scales. I cut my teeth in Black Powder in the American War of Independence, but have also enjoyed playing Napoleonic battles. And I have tried–really tried, three times, to get myself into Epic Black Powder–Warlord Games’ 13mm model range–and for the life of me I just can’t. I want to play games on that scale, but I am SO BAD at painting miniatures that small.

At its heart, Black Powder is a game that allows enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the 19th century, a time when muskets and cannons roared, and grand armies clashed across continents. From the smoky fields of the Napoleonic Wars to the tense standoffs of the American Civil War, players can recreate or even re-imagine these legendary confrontations.

A few highlights of Black Powder:

• Historical Accuracy: The game’s rules and mechanics are designed to reflect the strategies and realities of warfare during this period. Whether you’re recreating the Battle of Gettysburg or envisioning an alternate outcome for the Battle of Waterloo, Black Powder ensures that tactics and historical context remain at the forefront.
• Living History: Black Powder isn’t just about rolling dice and moving miniatures. It’s a bridge to the past. Players often find themselves diving deep into historical research, ensuring their armies are correctly represented, and even participating in civil war reenactments for a richer understanding of the era.
• Community Engagement: The game isn’t limited to North America’s battlefields. Worldwide, players bring their own regional histories and conflicts to the table, broadening horizons and deepening appreciation for global historical events. I’ve seen people complain that historical wargamers can be so-called “button counters”, where if you have your Napoleonic uniforms the wrong shade they’ll get upset, but in all my years playing I’ve never encountered it myself. Not to say it never happens, just that I’ve never witnessed it.

In essence, Black Powder is an experience. It’s about feeling the weight of command, understanding the sacrifices made in real battles, and honoring history by engaging with it in an interactive and respectful way. It’s a testament to the power of historical wargaming and its ability to connect us with our shared past.

Bolt Action: The Grit of World War II Skirmishes

Read our guide to getting started in Bolt Action here. Buy your own starter set here.

World War II remains one of the most significant and extensively studied events in modern history. A war that spanned continents and cultures, it brought about profound changes in geopolitics and the global landscape. Enter Bolt Action—a game that lets players dive into this tumultuous era and recreate the intense battles that shaped our world.

Published by Warlord Games, Bolt Action stands out as a favorite among many in the historical miniature wargaming community. As a matter of fact, Bolt Action is my number one favorite miniature wargame, ahead of Warhammer, ahead of anything else. Here’s why:

• Skirmish-Level Engagement: Unlike epic-scope wargames, Bolt Action focuses on skirmish-level conflicts. This means players command squads and platoons instead of entire divisions or corps. This scale allows for intricate tactics and a more personal connection to the soldiers on the field.
• Iconic Battles Re-lived: From the storming of Normandy on D-Day to the dense urban combat in Stalingrad, Bolt Action provides the tools to recreate these legendary encounters. The authenticity and attention to detail in the game ensure that players get a taste of the real challenges faced during these clashes.
• Historical and What-If Scenarios: While many players strive for historical accuracy, the game also offers flexibility for those looking to explore alternate outcomes. Ever wondered how a different strategy during the Battle of the Bulge might have played out? Bolt Action gives you the platform to experiment.
• Community and Expansion: The ever-growing line of miniatures, ranging from the well-known US Infantry to the specialized units like the Finnish Winter War soldiers or the Red Army’s snipers, ensures there’s always something new for enthusiasts to explore and add to their collections.
• The Rules Are Just So Dang Good: All of the things I’ve mentioned above as just icing on the cake because when it comes to historical wargaming, or wargaming in general, there is no system I’ve found that is simultaneously as simple and as engaging as Bolt Action. The order dice mechanic is its biggest strength, but it also draws on the wisdom of long-time veteran game designer Rick Priestly to make everything work. It is complex yet not complicated. It is detailed yet not slow. It’s all-around a fantastic game.

In the vast landscape of historical wargaming, Bolt Action stands as a beacon for World War II enthusiasts. It’s not just about moving miniatures and rolling dice—it’s about understanding the gravity of WWII, honoring the sacrifices made, and appreciating the strategies that changed the course of history. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or new to the world of historical reenactment, Bolt Action promises an immersive experience.

Flames of War: World War II on a Grand Scale

Get your copy of the American starter set here, or the German starter set here.

While Bolt Action dives deep into the skirmishes of World War II, Flames of War opens up the vast theater of the entire conflict–with a big emphasis on tanks and vehicles. From the snowy terrain of the Eastern Front to the sandy dunes of North Africa, this game encapsulates the global scope of the Second World War.

Here’s what sets Flames of War apart:

• Epic Scale Battles: Players get a taste of what it’s like to command large formations, with battles that can span entire cities or large stretches of countryside. This scale emphasizes grand strategy, logistical planning, and the challenge of coordinating large forces. The vehicles are 1/100th scale, making each tank a little over two inches long. As you can imagine, you can fit a lot of armor on the field.
• Historical Precision: The game takes pride in its dedication to historical accuracy. Players can recreate landmark battles such as Kursk and the Battle of the Bulge, focusing on the unique tactics and strategies employed in each.
• Diverse Factions: With a plethora of units from different nations, Flames of War showcases the diverse strategies, strengths, and weaknesses of each faction, ranging from the Blitzkrieg tactics of the Germans to the defensive resilience of the Soviets.

In the realm of historical miniature wargaming, Flames of War stands tall, offering both novice and experienced wargamers a deep dive into the strategies, challenges, and sheer scale of World War II.

SPQR: Ancient Warfare and the Might of Rome

Read our review of SPQR here. Buy your own copy of the starter set here.

The allure of ancient battlefields, where legions marched and empires were forged, has captivated historians and wargamers alike. SPQR – a nod to the Latin phrase “Senātus Populusque Rōmānus” or “The Senate and People of Rome” – takes players on a journey back to the grandeur of ancient civilizations and their epic clashes.

Here’s why SPQR stands out in the realm of historical miniature wargaming:

• Roman Warfare Mastery: At the heart of SPQR lies the might and tactics of the Roman legions. The game delves deep into the military formations, strategies, and equipment that made Rome one of the greatest military powers in history.
• Diverse Factions and Cultures: While Rome is central, SPQR doesn’t stop there. Players can command armies from various factions that interacted with or opposed the Roman Empire, from the fierce Gauls to the disciplined Carthaginians. This diversity allows for a multitude of scenarios, strategies, and battle outcomes.
• Skirmish Focus: Similar to Hail Caesar but played on a different scope, SPQR emphasizes smaller-scale engagements. Where Hail Caesar is a rank-and-flank large army game, SPQR will often see games of fewr than twenty models per side. This allows players to get intimate with their units, understand individual roles, and employ tactics reflective of real-life skirmishes from the era.
• Educational and Engaging: Beyond the battlefield, SPQR serves as a gateway to a deeper understanding of ancient history. Engaging with the game often leads players to further explore the events, politics, and cultures of ancient civilizations.

In SPQR, players don’t just recreate battles; they immerse themselves in an era where strategy, honor, and the quest for glory defined the fate of empires. It’s a testament to the beauty and depth of historical wargaming, connecting us to a time long past but never forgotten.

Hail Caesar: A Panorama of Ancient Battles

Buy the starter set here.

When you’re passionate about the vastness of ancient warfare, spanning empires and epochs, Hail Caesar is your time machine to those epic times. It does something that Warlord Games likes, which is creating a ruleset and then applying it to a wide variety of settings. Hail Caesar sees Rome fighting the Gauls, but it also sees Vikings fighting the Saxons centuries after Rome abandoned Britain. Designed to accommodate everything from small skirmishes to grand battles, it’s a comprehensive dive into the richness of ancient military history.

Here’s a snapshot of what Hail Caesar brings to the historical miniature wargaming table:

• Breathtaking Scope: Hail Caesar stands apart for its expansive reach. From the early Bronze Age civilizations to the fall of Rome, this game encompasses a broad sweep of history. Imagine leading Spartan hoplites, guiding the chariots of the Hittites, or clashing with the fearsome Vikings; all these are possible scenarios.
• In-depth Rules: While accessible to newcomers, the rules of Hail Caesar have a depth that appeals to seasoned wargamers. Different troop types, formations, and tactics genuinely reflect the strategies of the ancient world, demanding both foresight and adaptability from players.
• Living History: Engaging with Hail Caesar is like participating in a historical reenactment. Players are often encouraged to delve deeper into the histories, cultures, and intricacies of the factions they command, making the game an educational experience as much as a recreational one.

For many, Hail Caesar is a journey through time, a challenge of tactics, and a celebration of the vast tapestry of ancient military history. Whether you’re spearheading the charge of Persian Immortals or withstanding a Carthaginian elephant charge, every battle promises a blend of excitement and reverence for the past.

Black Seas: Navigating the Age of Sail

Buy Black Seas here.

Amidst the roaring cannons and billowing sails, Black Seas whisks players away to the naval battles of the 18th and 19th centuries. (If only it wasn’t so hard to get the rigging right!) It’s a dive into the maritime conflicts of the Age of Sail, a time when navies ruled the waves and maritime supremacy could determine the fate of empires.

Here’s what sets Black Seas apart:

• Realism on the High Seas: From ship maneuverability to wind direction, Black Seas ensures players contend with the same elements as real-life captains of the era. This attention to detail provides both a challenge and an authentic experience.
• Iconic Ship Models: Historical scale modeling is at its best here. Miniatures in the game are intricately detailed, from the towering masts of first-rate ships of the line to the agile schooners. Once you nail the rigging, the boats look amazing. Nailing the rigging, whoever…. that takes skill.
• Famous Naval Battles: Players can chart a course through history, reimagining pivotal confrontations such as the Battle of Trafalgar. These engagements showcase the tactical depth and decision-making critical to naval warfare.

In Black Seas, every game session is a voyage into the heart of naval warfare during the Age of Sail. Whether you’re commanding the British Royal Navy, steering the French fleet, or guiding the Spanish Armada, the waters promise both peril and glory.

Tombstone: The Wild West Anew

Dust, danger, and duels define the world of Tombstone, a foray into the rough and tumble of the American Wild West. With gunfighters, lawmen, and outlaws, this game encapsulates the lawlessness and heroism of a time long past.

Key elements of Tombstone include:

• Detailed Scenarios: From stagecoach heists to saloon showdowns, players recreate thrilling episodes reminiscent of classic westerns.
• Dynamic Characters: Dive into roles, whether you’re an outlaw on the run or a sheriff maintaining peace.
• Historical Events Re-imagined: Engage in iconic moments, like the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral, but with the freedom to alter outcomes.

In the world of Tombstone, players step into a vibrant chapter of North American history, wielding revolvers, making strategic decisions, and facing the consequences of life in the Wild West.

Alternate History: When Fantasy and Historical Events Collide

Konflikt ’47: World War II’s Alternate Reality

Read our review of Konflikt ’47 here. Get a starter box here.

In the intriguing nexus of historical wargaming and science fiction lies Konflikt ’47, a tabletop game that explores an alternate 1947 where World War II did not end as we know it. This game doesn’t just continue the war; it drastically reimagines it, blending authentic historical events with fantastical elements. It is one of my personal favorite wargames, as it uses the Bolt Action rules (which I’ve already said I loved) and mixes in some sci-fi and fantasy.

Here’s a glimpse into the captivating world of Konflikt ’47:

• A War Twisted by Science: The game pivots on a crucial alternate history moment: the 1943 detonation of an atomic bomb in Northern Europe. This event opens rifts in reality, leading to the development and deployment of advanced and sometimes bizarre technology. From walking tanks to troops mutated by rift-tech enhancements, the warfare in Konflikt ’47 is both familiar and uncanny.
• Real Battles, Imagined Outcomes: Konflikt ’47 allows players to recreate the significant confrontations of World War II but with a twist. Imagine the Battle of Berlin, but with German werewolves clashing against American mechs. The game’s flexibility means historical battle recreation with a fresh, speculative angle.
• Factions Redefined: While you’ll see staple World War II factions like the Soviets, Americans, and Germans, each is reinvented with a roster of units that blend 1940s military aesthetics with retrofuturistic science fiction.

Konflikt ’47 is a thought experiment. What if our history took a different turn? How would warfare evolve with the infusion of the supernatural and the cutting-edge? With every session, players not only contest territories but grapple with these tantalizing “what ifs.”

Dystopian Wars: A Steampunk Alternate 19th Century

Buy the Dystopian Wars starter set here.

Venture into a world where technology and ambition have reshaped the geopolitics of the 19th century. Dystopian Wars paints a vivid picture of massive empires battling amidst an alternate history filled with steampunk marvels and marine might. I admit that of the games I’ve mentioned so far, Dystopian Wars is one that I have not yet dipped my toe into. But the models look amazing, and everything about the game sounds fun.

Highlights of Dystopian Wars:

• Steampunk Warfare: Battleships bristling with advanced weaponry, armored zeppelins dominating the skies, and titanic sea monsters — the game features a mix of historical and fantastical units that capture the steampunk essence.
• Alternate Global Politics: Dystopian Wars reimagines the world’s political landscape. Major powers of the 19th century vie for dominance, but with technological advancements that tip the balance of power in unexpected ways.
• A Deep Ocean of Strategy: While naval combat is at the heart of the game, the inclusion of air and land units adds layers of strategic depth. Commanders must think in three dimensions, making battles both challenging and rewarding. I’m a sucker for naval games as it is, and this one looks amazing.
• Familiar Yet Foreign: Recognizable historical elements mesh seamlessly with alternate history in Dystopian Wars. From the might of the British Crown to the innovation of North American federations, the world feels both familiar and entirely new.

For players fascinated by the potential of “what could have been,” Dystopian Wars offers an immersive dive into a 19th century shaped by invention, ambition, and unyielding naval warfare.

Silver Bayonet: When Napoleonic Warfare Meets the Supernatural

Read our review of Silver Bayonet here. Buy Silver Bayonet here.

In a world where history and horror intertwine, Silver Bayonet stands out as a gripping fusion of the Napoleonic Wars and gothic frights. It’s the late 18th century, and as European empires expand their territories, they encounter more than just rival nations.

Core facets of Silver Bayonet:

• Historical Battles with a Dark Twist: While players may deploy their armies to reenact iconic battles from the Napoleonic era, there’s a catch. Supernatural entities, from vampires to ghouls, lurk in the shadows, waiting to strike.
• Strategy and Suspense: Beyond traditional military tactics, commanders must now consider the unpredictable nature of their monstrous adversaries. This adds a layer of strategy and suspense to every skirmish.
• Melding Myth and Military: Silver Bayonet introduces folklore creatures into real-life military scenarios. It’s a world where a regiment of French grenadiers might be backed up by a werewolf or two.
• Rich Atmosphere: The game captures the eeriness of dark European forests and misty battlefields, where the line between reality and horror is perilously thin.

For wargamers seeking a fresh take on historical reenactments, Silver Bayonet offers a hauntingly beautiful dance between the disciplined formations of the Napoleonic era and the chaotic terror of the supernatural.

Sludge: Post-Apocalyptic Battles in a Tainted World

Read our review of Sludge here. Pick up a copy of the rules here.

Imagine a world where the remnants of Napoleonic civilization strive to survive amidst a toxic wasteland. Sludge transports players to this desolate future, emphasizing both the resilience of humanity and the unpredictability of a forever-changed environment.

Essentials of Sludge:

• Post-Apocalyptic Setting: After cataclysmic events devastate the planet, factions emerge, battling over scarce resources and territory in a landscape marked by contamination and decay.
• Tactical Challenge: Players navigate a world where traditional warfare strategies are rendered moot. Adapting to new challenges like mutated adversaries and treacherous terrain is paramount.
• Atmosphere of Desperation: Sludge paints a vivid picture of survival against the odds, where alliances are frail and every decision can spell triumph or doom.

For those who crave a darker, grittier alternate history, Sludge offers an intense plunge into a world scarred by catastrophe, challenging players to find hope amidst despair.

Turnip 28: A Surreal Stroll Through Alternate History

Explore the world of Turnip 28 here.

At the intersection of whimsy and darkness lies Turnip 28, an innovative take on wargaming that presents an alternate universe both charmingly bizarre and subtly disconcerting. Rooted in the familiar landscapes of historical wars, the game surprises players with its unique twists and otherworldly elements.

Key Aspects of Turnip 28:

• Whimsical World Building: Inspired by the real-life Napoleonic Wars, the world of Turnip 28 is drastically different. Here, giant root vegetables become central to the cultures of warring nations, influencing everything from economy to warfare.

• Surreal Soldiers: Armies in Turnip 28 are an eclectic mix. From regiments armed with turnip-based weapons to eerie scarecrow warriors and cabbage knights, every unit is a delightful surprise that challenges traditional war tactics.
• Rich Backstories: Despite its playful exterior, Turnip 28 offers a depth of lore that explores the consequences of unchecked ambition, environmental degradation, and the cyclical nature of conflict.
• Engaging Game Mechanics: The game successfully marries its quirky theme with robust mechanics, ensuring battles are both strategic and entertaining. Terrain, weather, and the peculiar properties of various vegetables all play a role in the outcome of skirmishes.
• Reflections on Reality: Beneath its vegetable veneer, Turnip 28 offers commentary on real issues. It touches on the absurdity of war, the repercussions of environmental neglect, and the lengths societies will go to uphold strange traditions.

For players seeking an escape from conventional wargaming while still desiring depth and strategy, Turnip 28 serves as a fresh breath of air. It’s a reminder that history, when viewed through a different lens, can be both enlightening and utterly entertaining. Dive into a world where history takes a backseat, making room for turnips, oddities, and reflections on the human condition.

Research Meets Imagination: The Heart of Wargaming

Wargaming, at its core, is an exquisite dance between the meticulous study of history and the unbridled freedom of imagination. Both historical and alternate history wargames draw inspiration from real-life events, crafting scenarios that range from faithful reenactments to wildly imaginative “what if” situations. It’s this blend of research and creativity that makes the world of wargaming so compelling and diverse.

Historical Fidelity: The Backbone of Recreation

When diving into games like Black Powder or Hail Caesar, players are immediately met with a sense of authenticity. These games aren’t merely about moving pieces across a board; they’re about immersion in a time period, understanding the tactics of the day, and making decisions that could alter the course of a historical battle re-imagining.

• Detailed Rulebooks: Many wargames offer rulebooks filled with historical annotations, tidbits, and explanations. These not only serve as guidelines for gameplay but also as deep dives into the particularities of historical events and warfare techniques. (The sheer number of vehicles available to any given army in Bolt Action is staggering, as you can take almost any variant of any make and model–finding a kit to represent it on the field is another matter.)
• Living History: Civil war reenactments, for instance, bring the past to life in a tangible way. Similarly, games like Bolt Action or Flames of War are a form of living history, allowing players to step into the shoes of commanders from bygone eras.
• Beyond Battles: It’s not just about recreating the Battle of Gettysburg or a pivotal World War II skirmish. It’s about understanding the circumstances that led to these events, the strategies employed, and the consequences that followed.

Unleashing Creativity: The Essence of Alternate History

On the other side of the spectrum lie games that take a seed of historical truth and nurture it into a full-blown alternate reality. Konflikt ’47, Sludge War, and Turnip 28 are prime examples.

• The Joy of “What Ifs”: What if the Cold War had escalated? What if supernatural entities existed during the Napoleonic Wars? These games pose intriguing questions and then let players explore possible answers.
• Challenging Presumptions: By introducing science fiction elements or fantastical adversaries, these games challenge players to think outside the box, applying historical tactics in novel situations.
• A Commentary on Present Day: Interestingly, many alternate history wargames reflect on current societal and environmental issues. While they might be set in different timelines, the underlying themes often resonate with contemporary challenges.

Merging Worlds: A Celebration of Wargaming’s Heart

The beauty of wargaming lies in its duality. Historical wargaming offers players a chance to relive, reassess, and even rewrite moments from the past. Simultaneously, alternate history variants encourage players to stretch their imagination, drawing on historical knowledge while forging new narratives.

The magic happens when players sit down, dice in hand, ready to command their armies. Whether they’re revisiting a key moment from American history or navigating a dystopian 19th century, they’re doing more than just playing a game. They’re actively engaging with history, learning, imagining, and most importantly, creating memories and stories of their own.

In the realm of wargaming, research and imagination aren’t just bedfellows; they’re partners in a dance that celebrates both our shared past and the endless possibilities of the human imagination.

Miniatures and Game Mechanics: Breathing Life into History

In the vibrant world of historical miniature wargaming, the miniatures themselves act as gateways to times long past. Delicately crafted, these figures not only depict the aesthetics of bygone eras but also play crucial roles in the dynamics of the game.

1. The Art of Miniatures:

Miniatures in games like Black Powder or Hail Caesar are much more than mere tokens. They are intricate representations of soldiers, replete with historically accurate uniforms, weapons, and even stances. The detailed craftsmanship showcases:

• Historical Scale Modeling: Ensuring each unit is proportional and accurate to its real-life counterpart.
• Living History: Every miniature serves as a visual testament to a time period, echoing the spirit of civil war reenactors or battle recreations.

2. Game Mechanics: Strategy Meets Historical Recreation

Every wargame possesses its own unique set of rules, and these mechanics are often influenced heavily by real-life tactics and scenarios.

• Decisions with Weight: In Bolt Action, for instance, players must carefully consider the use of infantry, tanks, and artillery, just as commanders did during World War II. Each choice can be pivotal, mirroring the gravity of decisions made in actual historical events.
• Reimagining Outcomes: While games provide structure, they also allow for flexibility. Players can experiment with different tactics, potentially altering the outcomes of famous battles and posing intriguing “what if” scenarios.

3. A Tapestry of Time Periods:

From the tense gunfights of Tombstone’s Wild West to the grand naval battles in Black Seas, wargaming mechanics allow players to dive deep into different epochs, understanding the nuances of each.

In essence, miniatures and game mechanics work hand-in-hand to create a holistic experience. While the figures provide a tangible connection to the past, the rules and gameplay ensure that players are actively engaging, strategizing, and, above all, learning from history’s vast tapestry.