When you talk to someone who expresses an interest in miniature wargaming, or has any interest in military history, you have an opportunity to help keep our hobby healthy. Don't blow it! Don t expound on the mechanics of rule sets, the shortcomings of products or games, or the accuracy of a specific color and how so many people don't get the color right. Instead, talk about the opportunity to experience strategy and tactics while simulating history or creating "what if scenarios. Talk about the experience of being part of a living diorama and the enjoyment of painting figures, building terrain and assembling historical armies. Talk about getting together for a social evening with friends and acquaintances that share a common interest. In short... be positive and talk about the "experiences", entertainment and enjoyment the hobby can deliver.
I find the ongoing debate about the state of our hobby interesting but grow tired of the critics? Do they ever go out and try to spread the word about the fun associated with historical miniatures? Historical gaming needs ambassadors who will talk positively and work hard. I am all for a good bitch about what isn't available or how expensive things are. Still, when I talk to a prospect ... yes a prospect ... I make sure that they hear about the hobby and not it's shortcomings.
I come from the land of enclave gamers. The Chicago land area doesn't have the abundance of conventions that our colonial cousins out east have. But there are an awful lot of small groups of folks getting together to play a game once or twice a month ( probably because they're having fun). I understand the concerns associated with bringing strangers into our homes or upsetting the equilibrium of our existing groups; and I am extremely familiar with work commitments. However, the hobby is fun, has positive qualities and should be able to attract normal well-adjusted people looking for entertainment.
Talk to your local scout troop when you have a chance. Go talk to your park district. Give an old magazine to a youngster, or an adult, who expresses even the slightest interest in the hobby. Support conventions, manufacturers and retailers in any small way that you can. Your support doesn't have to always be monetary either. Be enthusiastic when you talk to non-gamers. Think of them as other gainers and don't shy away from admitting you like historical gaming. There are a lot of people who have interests that are a lot stranger than military history!
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© Copyright 1999 Hal Thinglum
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