Military Modelling

Guide to Wargaming

by William Greenwald

The Guide is written by Stuart Asquith and published by Argus Books Limited, 1 Golden Square, London WIR 3AB for (5.95. The first thing noticed about the book, Military Modelling Guide to Wargaming, was the beautiful color cover photo. It was typical of the book's magazine namesake (Military Modelling). As I flipped through the pages I found it to be riddled with the terrific close-up photography that I was familiar with.

As the title suggests, the range of topics covered by the author leaves nothing untouched. In part 1, the history of the hobby, inclusive of quotes from the early works, sets the scope and detail level of the writing. The various aspects of the figures, i.e., materials, scale, packaging, painting, and basing, are covered. Even the topics of conversions and professional painting services are included to give the reader a better understanding of what is possible in this great hobby.

As anticipated, ground to figure scale, terrain, unit frontages, unit strengths, point values, casualties, and game supplies are described These, I might add, are some of the best descriptions I have seen, as they are extremely understandable to the novice and experienced gamer alike.

In regards to the playing of wargames, the major aspects of the rules, game sizes, and the tactical aspects of wargaming, such as 'orders', are included to give the reader a well rounded view of the hobby.

In part 2, a short, but concise, description of each gaming era is given Many of the different armies and the wars they fought are mentioned as well as a suggested reading list. We are disappointed, however, that Stuart did not see fitto list anywargaming magazinesor theiraddresses. The one mention of Military Modelling pays tribute to the magazine - whose parent company, Argus, is paying the bills. Also included are simple rules for each period, with the main thrust at the flavor of the times and playability.

The third part is a pretty complete listing of figure manufacturers and a wargames bibliography.

In conclusion, I think that Mr. Asquith has covered the hobby of Historical Wargaming thoroughly. His writing style make very easy and fast reading. I can't recommend this book highly enough, to all wargamers.

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