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As we come to the close of 2023, it’s interesting to look back at the year and see how far we’ve come, and what it portends about where we’re going.

The world of miniature wargaming has always been a fascinating blend of art, strategy, and storytelling, captivating enthusiasts with its intricate miniatures and immersive gameplay. From its historical roots to the diverse array of fantasy and sci-fi universes it encompasses today, the hobby has continually evolved, adapting to new technologies and changing cultural trends.

This article aims to explore what the future might hold for miniature wargaming. We’ll explore emerging trends, technological advancements, and predictions that could shape the landscape of this beloved pastime.

The Rise of Digital Integration

One of the most significant trends in miniature wargaming is the increasing integration of digital technology. Traditionally, the hobby has been deeply rooted in the physical – tangible miniatures, hand-painted armies, and meticulously crafted terrains. However, the digital age is ushering in a new era of possibilities that blend the physical and virtual worlds in unprecedented ways.

Of course, the main place we’ve been seeing digital integration, both good and bad, is in apps. Some of these are fantastic (I’ve talked a lot about how much I like Citadel’s Colour app, and why I think it makes Citadel paint a better value proposition for painters), while others are pretty poor. You’d think that it wouldn’t be hard to create a decent army builder app, but when you have SO MANY FRIGGING RULES UPDATES as Games Workshop does, it becomes a problem,

But there’s more to digital integration than just apps.

Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality

Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) are at the forefront of this technological revolution. AR has the potential to transform tabletop battles, allowing players to see animated scenarios and effects overlaid on their physical game boards. Imagine casting a spell in a fantasy wargame and watching an AR-generated fireball engulf your opponent’s troops. Such immersive experiences could deepen the tactical gameplay and visual spectacle of battles.

Virtual reality, on the other hand, could create entirely new realms for wargaming. VR headsets might transport players into a fully immersive 3D environment, where they can walk around their armies and experience the battlefield from a ground-level perspective. This could lead to a new genre of wargaming, where the strategy of traditional tabletop games meets the immersive experience of video gaming.

Of course, the downside to both of these things is that they add cost and add clutter. Just as 3D printing is a hobby unto itself that you must engage in on top of miniature wargaming, virtual reality is a hobby unto itself. And augmented reality might be cool–you might like seeing that wizard cast a spell–but does it bring enough to the table to be worth the trouble.

Beyond AR and VR

Beyond AR and VR, apps and software are already changing how players engage with the hobby. Future developments could include AI-driven opponents, offering solo players challenging and unpredictable battles, or online platforms that facilitate remote play, connecting the global wargaming community like never before.

As digital integration continues to grow, it’s likely that miniature wargaming will retain its physical essence. That’s the core of what miniature wargaming is: miniatures. Take away the miniatures and it just becomes video gaming. But it may also embrace the enhanced possibilities offered by technology. This hybrid approach could attract a new generation of players, drawn by the allure of high-tech gaming experiences while still appreciating the tactile joy of miniature wargaming.

Advancements in 3D Printing

3D printing is another technological marvel reshaping the landscape of miniature wargaming. In recent years, the availability of affordable 3D printers has already begun to impact the hobby. I bought my 3D printer almost exactly 3 years ago, and it’s practically an antique given how rapidly the industry is moving.

3D printing enthusiasts are no longer confined to commercially available miniatures; they can now design and print their own unique figures, terrain, and game pieces. This so-called “democratization of miniature production” has sparked a creative renaissance within the wargaming community, with hobbyists sharing their designs online and collaborating in ways that were previously unimaginable.

Looking forward, we can expect to see improvements in print quality, speed, and the variety of materials available, making it even easier for gamers to customize their armies and game worlds. As the technology becomes more mainstream, the cost of 3D printers is likely to decrease, making them accessible to a broader segment of the wargaming community.

The implications of these advancements are profound. Custom miniatures could become the norm, with players designing and printing armies that perfectly match their vision. Terrain building, traditionally a time-consuming and skill-intensive part of the hobby, could be revolutionized by the ability to print detailed, modular scenery. This level of customization will not only enhance the visual appeal of the games but also allow for more personalized and creative gameplay.

Moreover, 3D printing opens up new avenues for small-scale designers and indie game creators. Independent designers can produce miniatures and game components without the need for large-scale manufacturing, lowering the barrier to entry for creating new wargames. This could lead to a surge in innovative, niche games that cater to specific interests and themes, further enriching the diversity of the hobby.

As 3D printing technology continues to evolve, it’s likely to become an integral part of miniature wargaming, offering players unprecedented freedom to shape and define their gaming experiences. This shift towards personalized, custom-created content will not only change how games are played but also how they are conceived and developed.

(But wait: do I actually think that 3D printing is going to up end the big miniatures companies like Games Workshop, Warlord Games, or the many others? I don’t–at least in the foreseeable future. Squidmar Miniatures did a great video recently comparing the quality and cost of 3D miniatures to their Games Workshop counterparts, and it was clear that while the quality of some of them was there, cost AND quality often didn’t combine to be where a revolution could happen.)

At least, those are my thoughts currently.

Environmental Considerations

In recent years, there’s been a growing awareness of environmental issues in various industries, and miniature wargaming is no exception. The hobby traditionally relies on plastic and metal for miniatures, materials that raise concerns regarding sustainability and environmental impact. As we look to the future, it’s likely that the miniature wargaming community and industry will increasingly focus on eco-friendly practices.

To be clear, I don’t think that this is a change that is happening because consumers are necessarily demanding it (though some are) but because there is cost savings that come from being more environmentally friendly. After all, those mountains of sprues could go to a landfill or they could be recycled into new miniatures. Which is better?

One significant trend could be the shift towards using sustainable materials for miniatures and game components. Biodegradable plastics, recycled materials, and non-toxic paints might become the standard, reducing the hobby’s ecological footprint.

Packaging is another area ripe for improvement. The miniature wargaming industry, like many others, often relies on excessive packaging, much of which is non-recyclable.

Moreover, as digital components become more integrated into the hobby, there might be a reduction in the need for physical components, further lessening environmental impact. Digital rulebooks, online platforms for organizing and playing games, and apps for tracking game progress can all contribute to reducing the hobby’s reliance on physical materials.

Again, while there are some voices in the hobby community who talk about sustainability, and I care about it, I don’t think that we’re even approaching a tipping point where consumer demand for eco-friendly miniature wargaming is coming. But if a company can save money by using recycled goods, then that’s better for everyone.

The Evolving Community and Market

The miniature wargaming community has traditionally been viewed as niche, but it has seen significant growth and diversification over the years. This trend is expected to continue, with the community becoming more inclusive and reaching a wider audience.

Demographically, we’re witnessing a gradual shift. While the hobby has predominantly attracted older males, there’s been an increase in interest from younger players and women. This diversification enriches the community, bringing new perspectives and ideas. As the hobby becomes more inclusive, we can expect game themes, artwork, and narratives to reflect this diversity, resonating with a broader range of players.

That said, there is conflicting data. According to the Great Wargaming Survey, the age of respondents to the survey has been getting older and older every year. However, it’s difficult to gauge how accurate that is when the survey tends to hit historical wargaming more than wargaming in general–often leaving out the biggest demographics in wargaming (the Warhammer/Star Wars Legion/Battletech demographics).

The market for miniature wargaming is also likely to expand globally. The rise of online platforms and social media has made it easier for people around the world to learn about, engage with, and contribute to the hobby. This global expansion not only increases the market size but also introduces cultural diversity into the games, potentially inspiring new themes and styles.

Changes in Game Design and Mechanics

The future of miniature wargaming will likely see significant evolution in game design and mechanics, influenced by both technological advancements and shifting player preferences. The integration of digital elements into traditional tabletop gaming could lead to more dynamic and interactive game experiences.

Technological advancements, particularly in AI, could lead to smarter, more adaptive game mechanics. AI could be used to manage complex game systems or simulate opponent strategies, offering players new challenges and more engaging gameplay. This integration of AI could be particularly beneficial for solo players, providing them with a richer and more varied gaming experience.

Another area of potential growth is in the complexity and depth of game narratives. As the community becomes more diverse, there’s a growing appetite for rich, inclusive stories and characters. Future games might feature narratives that are not only more complex but also more reflective of a diverse range of cultures and experiences.

The mechanics of games are also likely to evolve, with designers experimenting with new formats and play styles. Hybrid games, which combine elements of miniature wargaming with board games or card games, could become more prevalent, offering varied and unique gaming experiences.

Educational Applications and Outreach

Miniature wargaming, traditionally seen as a leisure activity, holds untapped potential in educational contexts. This aspect of the hobby is likely to gain more recognition and implementation in the future. Wargames, with their intrinsic elements of strategy, history, and problem-solving, can be powerful educational tools, especially in areas such as history, mathematics, and social studies.

In history education, for instance, historical wargames can bring past events to life, offering students an interactive way to understand historical battles, politics, and strategies. Students engaged in recreating historical scenarios are more likely to develop a deeper understanding and interest in the subject matter.

Math and physics concepts can be taught through the game mechanics of wargaming. Estimating distances, calculating probabilities, and understanding geometrical concepts become practical and engaging in the context of a game. This hands-on approach can make abstract concepts more tangible and understandable for students.

(This is one of the main reasons I got my sons into wargaming–to help them with their math and reading skills. The ability to absorb a rulebook, understanding complex rules and doing quick math problems in your head is a wonderful skill for kids.)

Furthermore, miniature wargaming can foster social skills and emotional intelligence. The cooperative and competitive aspects of the game encourage teamwork, communication, and empathy. Organizing and participating in wargaming clubs can also help students develop organizational and leadership skills.

As educational institutions continue to explore innovative teaching methods, the use of miniature wargaming as a learning tool is expected to grow. Partnerships between educational bodies and wargaming communities or companies could lead to the development of tailored educational wargames, further solidifying the role of this hobby in educational settings.

Potential Challenges and Solutions

As the miniature wargaming hobby evolves, it will inevitably face challenges. Economic factors, such as the cost of miniatures and gaming materials, could limit accessibility for some players. Competition from other forms of entertainment, like video games, will continue to impact the hobby’s popularity.

To address these challenges, the industry might explore more cost-effective production methods, such as advanced 3D printing, SIOCAST, and MDF kits to reduce prices. Offering a range of products at different price points can also make the hobby more accessible to a wider audience.

In terms of competition, the key could lie in emphasizing the unique aspects of miniature wargaming – the tactile experience, the community aspect, and the blend of creativity and strategy. Collaborations with other entertainment forms, like video games or graphic novels, could also help to draw in new enthusiasts.

Another challenge is keeping the hobby relevant and appealing to younger generations. This can be addressed by embracing modern technology, and continuing to evolve game narratives and designs to reflect contemporary themes and interests.

Conclusion

The future of miniature wargaming is poised at an exciting juncture, blending tradition with innovation. As we look ahead, the integration of technology, the focus on sustainability, the expansion of the community, and the evolution of game design and mechanics are set to redefine the hobby. Educational applications will highlight the hobby’s value beyond entertainment, while online communities and content creation will continue to be pivotal in its growth and evolution.

Despite potential challenges, the adaptability and creativity inherent in the miniature wargaming community suggest a vibrant and dynamic future. As the hobby continues to evolve, it will undoubtedly attract a diverse range of players, enriching the wargaming experience for everyone involved. The future of miniature wargaming, thus, holds promise not only as a source of entertainment but also as a platform for learning, creativity, and community-building.