In reading some of the British Miniature Magazines recently I was struck by the similarity of complaints from their readers to those expressed in U. S. magazines concerning the lack of support that many gamers new to the hobby experience. On both sides of the Atlantic new gamers complain that they are ignored, often derided and in general given short shrift by experienced gamers. They complain also that there is very little if any easy method of locating clubs and other gamers.

We often worry about the "Graying" of the hobby, yet even though many try to introduce new gamers to the intricacies of the hobby, it is still perceived that - as a group - we are less than helpful.

Complex Rules

One problem is that in clubs of long standing, the scenarios and rules tend to be complex and difficult to introduce a new gamer to. I would suggest that in those cases, every so often (depending on how often the club meets--perhaps a beginner night once a month if you meet every week) an introductory game/rules are run--perhaps a smaller game besides the club game on gaming night. Someone with the proper attitude should be assigned to oversee the intro games. Another possibility is to put on a game day at the local hobby store, where introductory games are demonstrated and provide the opporturnity for new gamers as well as non-gamers to participate. Most Hobby Stores would be glad to support such activity as it builds their customer base.

Certainly HMGS should get off its collective butt and publish the long-threatened game club list which would include the address and phone of the contact person for that club (Anyone in the New England Area, need only contact me through The Courier to game with us at Old Colony Wargamers in Hudson MA on Thursday nights). They had also planned to issue a listing of all their members (who were willing to be so listed) so that gamers could find each other.

The Courier has often offered to publish a short article on your club - one double spaced page typed, please- if you want to make yourselves available to new gamers. Be sure to include contact point address and phone and game day and time.

Finally if everyone remembers how they got into the hobby and how others helped them along, they can only do good when they find themselves in the position of helping someone else get started.

BOOK DISCOUNTS

Starting with this issue, we are offering selected books to subscribers at a 20% discount through a special arrangement with Consolidated Publishers, Inc.. You should take advantage of this offer as these are books that will not be available through Book Clubs. See The Courier Dispatch for details.