1. I've seen several recent issues of wargaming publications containing comments about the current ban-the-lead-figures controversy. Most of the articles have two things to say: first, they state how absolutely silly and irrational and nonsensical is the very idea of the ban. And second, the author continues with something to the effect: "Of course, I wouldn't let my son or daughter or my grandfather even touch the miniatures!" Gentlemen, you can't have it both ways. If the ban is truly illogical, then say so and shut up. Don't say anything else. Having declared your loyalty to the hobby, then stop right there... why make the other fellow's case for him? On occasion, even the slightest admission against interest will sway the judging body. At the least, it provides fuel for the opposition. End of discourse. 2. This current issue -- titled "May" -- is, quite obviously, a wee bit late, as was the last. I mentioned last month that I had hoped to put out a double issue for the May/June period and bring everything up to date. The double issue will have to be postponed at least one more month; I've been collecting a number of articles and should assemble enough coherent thoughts to publish a many-paged extravaganza for either the June/July period, or that of July/August. The HISTORICON convention (to be held in mid-July) usually provides much fertile material. 3. I think that I've got copies of most of the published rules sets. On occasion, when the mood hits me, I'll pull something off the shelf and our group will try it out. Usually, the tone of my article will reflect the volume of moans and groans that arise during the play-testing. The better way to review a set of rules is to sit in on a game hosted by someone who's fairly familiar with the rules system. This eliminates many, many minutes of wasted effort... instead of using up valuable game time researching the procedures, the host furnishes whatever information is needed. Such was the case for the rules reviewed in this issue: SCIENCE VERSUS PLUCK, the British colonial rules authored by Howard Whitehouse. Tony Figlia, rules-book in hand, took on the roles of umpire and arbitor as he guided us through a "march or die" desert scenario, displaying equal amounts of patience, fortitude, tolerance and perseverance. A good job. Back to PW Review May 1993 Table of Contents Back to PW Review List of Issues Back to MagWeb Master Magazine List © Copyright 1993 Wally Simon This article appears in MagWeb.com (Magazine Web) on the Internet World Wide Web. Other articles from military history and related magazines are available at http://www.magweb.com