After 35 years of wargaming, I would like to note that most games at our NOVAG conventions are excellent. Having the experience of hosting several convention games each year, I would like to recommend some helpful ideas for those of you planning to host a game.

The host, or Game Organizer and Designer, "G.O.D.", must keep in mind that his primary goal -- after creating the heaven and earth in the appropriate scale upon which to play -- should be to provide some fun for the gainers who voluntarily enlist at great personal risk of death, dishonor, and bad dice to play in his game.

Toward that end, GOD's First Commandment is that thou shalt get the gamers playing! When the combatants arrive at 1600 hours for a 1600 hour battle, and they are told that it'll only be an hour and a half wait while the host neatly places 1600 figurines on the table their faith in GOD may waiver.

And once the battle has begun: everyone should be battling. I fear I'm not the only one to have waited for hours for my troops to arrive, only to find the battle ended just as we marched on. In my own games, I try to get every player on by turn two (even if some of their forces may arrive later). Have the game ready and get everyone into action as soon as heavenly possible. Yes, GOD is expected to perform miracles.

GOD's Second Commandment is that thou shall relinquish command to the commanders. Always take your game seriously, but never make the mistake of taking yourself too seriously. Give them their goals, but permit them several options as to how they can go about achieving those goals.

GOD's Third Commandment is that thou shall give everyone a sporting chance at victory. Not only is it no fun being the fish in the barrel, but it isn't even much better being the one who gets the challenge of shooting those fish.

GOD's Fourth Commandment is that thou shalt optimize the visual I've noticed that 25mm figurines look infinitely better than 15mm troops at a viewing distance in convention lighting. If you are trying to sell an historical period, a rules system, or whatever, use 25's if you have the opportunity. And once you have spent your time and money on an army of figurines, don't forget to pay equal attention to the scenery.

GOD's Fifth Commandment is that thou shalt try something interesting. Rather than giving then what they get every Friday night, put a little twist in it by introducing something new. You can do anything. It's great to be GOD.

GOD's Sixth Commandment is that thou shalt play-test before coming to the convention. Play-testing is the best way -- even for GOD -- to be sure that the rules have no loopholes, and the scenario is balanced. Not only does it ensure a better game, but it involves your friends, and permits them to do what they've always wanted to do, Play GOD.

No, There are only six commandments, for ton the seventh day, GOD rested from all this rules making to play war games. Good Gaming.