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Posts by BigLee

House on the Hill Toy Museum
House on the Hill Toy Museum Step inside the House on the Hill Toy Museum and rediscover the roots of tabletop wargaming. In this video, I explore one of the UK’s largest collections of toy soldiers—from classic lead figures to plastic armies—and reflect on how these early play experiences shaped our modern wargaming hobby. Whether you’re into historical wargaming, miniature painting, or nostalgic toy soldiers, this visit is a reminder that imagination has always been at the heart of what we do. Join me for a journey through nostalgia, history, and the enduring joy of tiny armies on the battlefield. Join this channel to get access to perks: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-OyOZpU-R7PNBOFwP4mu3g/join

House on the Hill Toy Museum

22 hours ago 3 2 0 0
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Is Wargaming a form of Experimental History? Can tabletop wargaming really help us understand history, or are we simply creating the illusion of insight with dice and miniatures? This video explores the idea of wargaming as a form of “living history” and asks whether the hobby offers something that books alone cannot provide. For many historical wargamers, the appeal of the hobby goes far beyond painting miniatures or playing games. It is about stepping into the role of a commander, facing the same kinds of decisions, uncertainties, and pressures that shaped real historical events. Unlike reading, which presents history as a structured narrative, wargaming allows us to interact with it. It turns history into a problem to be solved rather than a story to be absorbed. Through gameplay, we encounter friction, imperfect information, and the unpredictability that defined real battles, offering a different perspective on events we may already know well. At the same time, this video takes a step back and questions whether we sometimes overstate the value of that experience. Wargaming relies on rules, abstractions, and models that simplify reality. While these systems can help us explore historical ideas, they can also create a false sense of understanding. It is easy to feel like we have “solved” a historical problem after a successful game, but real battles were shaped by factors far beyond what can be represented on the tabletop, including human emotion, political context, and logistical complexity. The discussion also explores the limitations of focusing on battles alone. While wargaming can deepen our understanding of tactical and operational decisions, history itself is much broader, shaped by culture, economics, and long-term societal change. This raises an important question about how much wargaming can truly teach us about the past as a whole. Ultimately, the video argues that wargaming is at its most powerful when combined with reading, research, and discussion. Rather than replacing traditional study, it enhances it by encouraging us to ask new questions and engage more actively with historical material. It is not about finding definitive answers, but about exploring possibilities and developing a deeper appreciation for the complexity of the past.

Is Wargaming a form of Experimental History?

2 days ago 10 1 1 0
Wargaming as Living History
Wargaming as Living History Does tabletop wargaming give us a deeper understanding of history than books alone, or is it just a beautifully painted illusion? In this video, we explore the idea of wargaming as “living history” and whether pushing miniatures across the tabletop can genuinely help us understand historical battles, decision-making, and uncertainty in ways traditional reading cannot. From command dilemmas and battlefield friction to the limits of rules as historical models, this discussion dives into how tabletop wargaming complements historical research while also challenging our assumptions. Perfect for historical wargamers, miniature painters, and hobbyists interested in the deeper meaning behind the games we play, this video asks whether we are learning history… or just telling ourselves we are. Join this channel to get access to perks: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-OyOZpU-R7PNBOFwP4mu3g/join

Wargaming as Living History

2 days ago 1 0 0 0
Railway Revolution of War #AmericanCivilWarHistory #BattlefieldLogistics #Wargaming
Railway Revolution of War #AmericanCivilWarHistory #BattlefieldLogistics #Wargaming Railways transformed warfare during the American Civil War. Learn how trains allowed armies to appear unexpectedly across vast distances and how tabletop wargames simulate this logistical revolution through reserve forces and reinforcement mechanics.

Railway Revolution of War #AmericanCivilWarHistory #BattlefieldLogistics #Wargaming

6 days ago 4 0 0 0
SALUTE 53 Show Report
SALUTE 53 Show Report Salute 53 is here, and once again the South London Warlords have brought the UK’s biggest one-day wargaming show to life at ExCeL London. As a lifelong historical wargamer, I explore how Salute has evolved—balancing historical gaming with the growing influence of sci-fi, fantasy, and narrative play. Is the decline in historical tables a problem, or simply a reflection of a changing hobby? In this video, I share my thoughts on what makes Salute 53 unique, why it still inspires, and how it fits into the wider UK wargaming scene. Join this channel to get access to perks: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-OyOZpU-R7PNBOFwP4mu3g/join

SALUTE 53 Show Report

1 week ago 10 1 1 0
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SALUTE 53 Show Report For many UK hobbyists, Salute 53 represents the pinnacle of the wargaming calendar—a one-day event that brings together every corner of the tabletop gaming world under one roof. Hosted by the South London Warlords at the iconic ExCeL London, Salute is more than just a convention. It’s a snapshot of the hobby as it exists today. In this show report, I take a reflective look at Salute through the lens of a long-time attendee and dedicated historical wargamer. Over the years, I’ve watched the show evolve. One of the most noticeable changes has been the gradual reduction in the number of historical games on display, something that many wargamers, myself included, have commented on in the past. But rather than framing that as criticism, this video explores the bigger picture. Historical wargaming, while rich in depth and authenticity, is just one part of an increasingly diverse hobby. Sci-fi, fantasy, and narrative-driven games have surged in popularity, bringing new players and fresh creativity into the space. Salute has adapted to reflect that reality, embracing a broader audience while still retaining elements of its historical roots. What makes Salute special is precisely that balance. It isn’t a purely historical show, nor is it a competitive tournament environment or a single-system convention. Instead, it occupies a unique niche, one that celebrates the full spectrum of tabletop wargaming. From meticulously researched historical battles to cinematic sci-fi encounters and immersive roleplay-inspired skirmishes, the variety on display is unmatched. As someone who enjoys not only historical gaming but also roleplaying and science fiction, I find that this diversity is part of Salute’s enduring appeal. It challenges you to step outside your comfort zone, to engage with new ideas, and to rediscover your enthusiasm for the hobby in unexpected ways. This video is both a celebration of Salute and a reflection on how the hobby continues to evolve. Whether you’re a historical purist, a narrative gamer, or simply someone who enjoys painting and collecting miniatures, there’s something here for you.

SALUTE 53 Show Report

1 week ago 10 1 0 0
SALUTE 53 show report coming soon!
SALUTE 53 show report coming soon! Don't miss out! Subscribe and hit the bell notification button now, so you don't miss my full show report coming mid-day today.

SALUTE 53 show report coming soon!

1 week ago 5 1 0 0
SALUTE 53 Early Access
SALUTE 53 Early Access Today I'm at SALUTE 53, Europe's biggest one day wargaming show.

SALUTE 53 Early Access

1 week ago 5 0 0 0
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Beautiful work. I look forward to seeing these with the Mk1 eyeball on Saturday.

1 week ago 1 0 1 0
The origin of skirmishers #SkirmishTactics #MilitaryHistory #TabletopWargaming
The origin of skirmishers #SkirmishTactics #MilitaryHistory #TabletopWargaming Skirmish tactics once shocked traditional armies. This video explores how an 18th-century military theory introduced flexible light troops and why modern tabletop skirmish games recreate the same battlefield evolution.

The origin of skirmishers #SkirmishTactics #MilitaryHistory #TabletopWargaming

1 week ago 7 0 0 0
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BigLee's guide to surviving Salute 53  If you’re planning your first trip to Salute 53, or returning after a long break, this video is your essential primer for navigating one of the biggest tabletop wargaming events in the world. Hosted at ExCeL London, Salute has evolved dramatically over the years, growing into a sprawling, vibrant showcase of everything the hobby has to offer. In this video, I explore how the show has changed for the better, with a broader mix of historical, fantasy, and sci-fi gaming on display. From immersive demo tables to interactive participation games, Salute is no longer just a shopping trip—it’s an experience. With over 90 demo games and a huge variety of traders, it’s a place where hobbyists can discover new systems, meet creators, and get hands-on with the latest releases and Kickstarter projects. I also cover the practical side of attending the event. Travel to ExCeL London is easier than ever thanks to the DLR, but parking costs have risen, making planning ahead essential. Inside the venue, accessibility has improved significantly, with pre-bookable accessible parking, free mobility scooters, and plenty of seating areas to rest during a long day on your feet. Food and drink options are plentiful, though undeniably expensive, so bringing a packed lunch is a popular strategy among seasoned attendees. Queueing, once a major concern, is now well managed with a dedicated indoor space, ensuring a smoother start to the day—even with thousands of visitors arriving before the doors open. Beyond the games and shopping, Salute offers a rich programme of Hobby Heroes panels and a consistently outstanding painting competition, showcasing some of the best miniature painting talent in the hobby. These elements add depth to the event, making it more than just a convention—it’s a full celebration of tabletop wargaming culture. Whether you’re a historical wargamer, miniatures painter, or simply curious about the hobby, this guide will help you make the most of your day at Salute 53 and avoid some of the common pitfalls first-time visitors face.

BigLee's guide to surviving Salute 53

2 weeks ago 5 0 0 2
BigLee's Guide to Surviving Salute
BigLee's Guide to Surviving Salute Planning your first visit to Salute 53? Or returning after years away from the old Olympia days? This beginner-friendly guide breaks down exactly what to expect at the UK’s biggest tabletop wargaming show, now held at ExCeL London. From navigating queues and travel to exploring 90+ demo games, traders, painting competitions, and Hobby Heroes panels, this video covers everything you need to survive—and enjoy—Salute. We also discuss parking costs, food options, accessibility, and how the show has evolved into a vibrant, inclusive celebration of miniature wargaming. Whether you're into historical wargaming, painting, or discovering new rulesets, this is your essential Salute primer. The Painting Competition: https://southlondonwarlords.co.uk/salute-painting-competition Hobby Heroes Panels: https://southlondonwarlords.co.uk/salute53-hobby-heroes Floorplan, Games & Traders: https://southlondonwarlords.co.uk/next-salute Join this channel to get access to perks: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-OyOZpU-R7PNBOFwP4mu3g/join

BigLee's Guide to Surviving Salute

2 weeks ago 2 0 0 0
Who is really in command
Who is really in command Command and control is the beating heart of WWII tabletop wargaming—but how do different rule systems actually represent it? In this video, I compare Flames of War 4th Edition, Bolt Action 3rd Edition, Chain of Command 2, and Rapid Fire Reloaded to explore how each handles battlefield leadership, activation, and coordination. From the cinematic chaos of order dice to the tactical depth of leader-driven systems and the structured control of larger formations, we break down what makes each approach unique—and what it says about real WWII combat. Whether you're a historical wargamer, miniature painter, or tabletop gaming enthusiast, this deep dive will give you a fresh perspective on your favourite rules. Join this channel to get access to perks: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-OyOZpU-R7PNBOFwP4mu3g/join

Who is really in command

2 weeks ago 4 1 0 0
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Who is really in command? Command and control is one of the most important (and often misunderstood) elements of WWII tabletop wargaming. It’s the invisible force that determines whether your carefully planned attack unfolds like a textbook operation… or collapses into chaos the moment the dice hit the table. In my latest video, I take a deep dive into how four popular rule sets approach this critical aspect of gameplay: Flames of War 4th Edition, Bolt Action 3rd Edition, Chain of Command 2, and Rapid Fire Reloaded. Each of these games tackles the same historical problem (how commanders influence the battlefield), but they do so in very different ways. Flames of War emphasises formation cohesion and the gradual breakdown of organised forces under pressure. Bolt Action leans into cinematic unpredictability with its order dice system, where momentum can shift in an instant. Chain of Command focuses on the human element, placing leaders at the centre of every decision and making their positioning critical to success. Meanwhile, Rapid Fire Reloaded zooms out to a larger scale, where command becomes a question of coordination, distance, and maintaining control across an entire battlefield. What emerges from this comparison is not a “best” system, but a set of distinct perspectives on how WWII combat functioned. Each ruleset highlights a different layer of warfare—chaos, leadership, or organisation—and in doing so, shapes the entire feel of the game. The same miniatures and the same historical scenario can feel completely different depending on how command and control are handled. For tabletop wargamers, this is where the hobby becomes especially rewarding. Exploring different rules isn’t just about mechanics; it’s about engaging with different interpretations of history. These systems invite us to consider how real commanders coped with confusion, limited communication, and the pressure to make decisions in the heat of battle.

Who is really in command?

2 weeks ago 5 1 0 0
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🎲 Europe's Largest Wargaming Convention
🗓 Saturday 11th April
📍 ExCel London
⏰ 10am - 5pm

100+ Games
130+ Traders
Hobby Workshops
Painting Competition
Discussion Panels
And Much More!

➡ Get your tickets:
salute.co.uk/next-salute

2 weeks ago 10 3 0 0
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3d printed British square, sent to me by Neale, in Epic scale. Looks much better than squares made by using the infantry bases. #wargaming #15mm

2 weeks ago 67 3 2 0
The Problem of Command Distance
The Problem of Command Distance Did you know Napoleonic generals struggled simply to communicate across the battlefield? This video explores how courier delays shaped real Napoleonic warfare and why modern tabletop wargames simulate command confusion with activation systems, command ranges, and order mechanics.

The Problem of Command Distance

2 weeks ago 6 1 0 0
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The Battle of Oltenitsa - 4th Nov 1853 - A Crimean War Batrep Yesterday’s game in the Shed-o-War with the rest of the Posties Rejects transported us back to a part of the Crimean War that rarely gets the spotlight. While most people jump straight to the mud, mismanagement, and media circus of the later Allied campaigns, the opening phase (before the British and French fully committed) was very much a brutal, grinding contest between the Russian Empire and the Ottoman Turks. By 1853, tensions between the Russian Empire and the Ottoman Empire had been simmering for years. Russia, keen to expand its influence southward and present itself as the protector of Orthodox Christians within Ottoman territories, pressed its claims with increasing aggression. The Ottomans, meanwhile, were determined to resist. When diplomacy failed, Russian forces crossed into the Danubian Principalities (modern-day Romania), prompting the Ottomans to declare war in October 1853. What followed was a series of sharp, often overlooked engagements along the Danube and in the Caucasus. These early clashes set the tone: determined Ottoman resistance, often underestimated, against a numerically and logistically powerful Russian army. One of the defining moments of this opening phase came at the Battle of Oltenița, where Ottoman forces successfully checked a Russian advance. It was an early indication that this would not be the quick, one-sided campaign many had expected. The Turks fought hard, often from prepared positions, and proved more than capable of bloodying Russian noses when the ground favoured them. Stuart set up a scenario based on these early encounters, pitching Russian attackers against a well-entrenched Turkish force in November 1853. On paper, it looked straightforward. In practice, it was anything but. The Turks held a commanding ridge line, broken by rocky outcrops and fortified with a chain of redoubts. Ten objectives in total, each hill and redoubt worth a single point, and, at the start of the game, all firmly in Ottoman hands. The Russian objective was clear: seize at least six to claim victory. Simple, right? Well… no. Although the Russians enjoyed a comfortable two-to-one numerical advantage, the terrain told a very different story. Assaulting uphill into prepared positions is never a pleasant experience, and the redoubts turned what might have been a straightforward advance into a grinding series of assaults. Every objective captured would have to be paid for. One of the real highlights of the evening was seeing the Ottoman collection back on the table. This early-war period has a distinct visual character that sets it apart from the later, more familiar Crimean battles. The Turkish uniforms in particular are an absolute joy: bold colours, striking contrasts, and just enough flourish to remind you that 19th-century warfare hadn’t entirely abandoned its sense of style. It’s a period that deserves more attention, both for its aesthetics and for the fascinating tactical challenges it presents. The asymmetry of these engagements, numerical superiority versus defensive strength, makes for exactly the kind of tense, decision-driven games that stick in the memory. Games like this are a great reminder that history doesn’t begin with the most famous moments. The early phase of the Crimean War is full of compelling scenarios, dramatic clashes, and underappreciated armies that deserve a place on the tabletop. And from a wargaming perspective, it offers something rather special: a chance to explore a conflict where the outcome isn’t dictated by reputation, but by how well you can manage ground, timing, and sheer bloody-minded persistence. As for the Russians’ daunting task of prising six objectives from stubborn Turkish hands? After a marathon eight-hour struggle, they fell just short—ending the day with five points apiece and a hard-fought draw. The Ottoman force was effectively shattered, but much like their historical counterparts, they had done exactly what was required: blunt the advance, buy precious time, and withdraw in good order to a new defensive line, leaving the Russians to contemplate the cost of every inch gained. As a postscript, for those who are interested, here are the Orders of Battle Stuart used for this game:Russians - IV Corp c/o General Dannenberg 10th Infantry Division 1st Brigade - 19th IR Ykaterenburg & 20th IR Tobolsk 2nd Brigade - 19th JR Tomsk, 20th JR Kolyvan & 4th Schutzen Battalion 11th Infantry Division 1st Brigade - 21st IR Selengvinsk & 22nd IR Yakutsk 4th Hussar Brigade - 7th Hussars Pavlograd, 8th Hussars Isun & 1st Ural Cossacks Turkish - Corps c/o Omar Pasha1st Infantry Division1st Brigade - 1st & 2nd IR2nd brigade - 3rd & 4th IR3rd Brigade - 5th & 6th IR2nd Infantry Division (Reserve)4th Brigade - 7th IRCavalry Division1st Brigade - 1st Cavalry Rgt2nd Brigade - 2nd & 3rd Cavalry Rgt3rd Brigade - 1st Don Cossack Rgt

The Battle of Oltenitsa - 4th Nov 1853 - A Crimean War Batrep

3 weeks ago 13 1 0 0
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Clear vs Scenic Bases One of the fascinating things about the tabletop wargaming hobby is how the smallest details can spark surprisingly passionate discussions. In this latest video, I take a closer look at one of those deceptively simple questions: Should we be using clear bases or scenic bases for our miniatures?  The topic was inspired by an email from Harry, also known as the Glasgow Warhog, who asked a straightforward question that many hobbyists have probably considered at some point: Should we move to clear bases? His argument was simple and practical. Clear bases allow miniatures to blend seamlessly into any battlefield terrain, whether that’s grassy countryside, desert landscapes, urban ruins, or the interior of a factory. From a gameplay perspective, the idea makes a lot of sense. But like many aspects of miniature wargaming, the answer isn’t quite that straightforward. In the video, I reflect on how basing has evolved over the decades, starting with the very earliest miniatures I painted more than forty years ago, when bases were often little more than a quick coat of green paint. From there, hobby techniques evolved into textured bases, flock, static grass, and eventually more elaborate scenic basing. Along the way, I even experimented with the legendary “oregano basing technique,” where dried kitchen herbs doubled as convincing dead grass for early miniature armies. As painting skills improved, basing became an increasingly creative part of the hobby. Today, many miniature painters treat the base as a tiny diorama, adding multiple scenic elements such as rocks, tufts, debris, and vegetation to create a more natural and immersive look. In the video, I talk about the “three-element basing rule” I often follow, which helps create visually interesting bases that feel like small slices of the battlefield. Of course, scenic bases come with their own challenges. A beautifully grassed base might look perfect in a rural battlefield, but perhaps less convincing inside a ruined building or on a paved city street. That’s where the appeal of clear acrylic bases becomes obvious. They adapt instantly to whatever terrain lies beneath the miniature. Clear bases offer flexibility and realism during gameplay, while scenic bases add character, storytelling, and a finished aesthetic that many modellers find deeply satisfying. Ultimately, this isn’t about deciding a “right” answer. Like so many aspects of the hobby, it comes down to personal preference and what you enjoy most, gaming practicality or modelling creativity.

Clear vs Scenic Bases

3 weeks ago 8 2 2 0
Clear vs Scenic Bases: Genius or Mistake?
Clear vs Scenic Bases: Genius or Mistake? Clear bases or scenic bases? It’s a surprisingly big debate in the miniature wargaming hobby. In this video I explore the pros and cons of clear acrylic bases versus traditional scenic basing for tabletop miniatures. Inspired by a question from Harry, the Glasgow Warhog, we dive into how basing styles have evolved—from simple painted bases and oregano “dead grass” experiments to more advanced scenic techniques like the three-element basing method. Clear bases offer flexibility, letting miniatures blend seamlessly into any terrain, but scenic bases add storytelling, atmosphere, and visual impact to your models. So which approach is best for tabletop wargamers, historical miniature painters, and hobbyists? Join the discussion as we weigh practicality against artistry and explore what makes miniatures look their best on the battlefield. Join this channel to get access to perks: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-OyOZpU-R7PNBOFwP4mu3g/join

Clear vs Scenic Bases: Genius or Mistake?

3 weeks ago 4 1 0 0
When Smoke Hid the Battlefield
When Smoke Hid the Battlefield Black powder muskets filled battlefields with smoke so thick soldiers sometimes fought nearly blind. Discover how this strange reality shaped Napoleonic combat and how tabletop wargames recreate the same visibility challenges with line-of-sight rules and battlefield terrain.

When Smoke Hid the Battlefield

3 weeks ago 0 0 0 0
On Bloody Ground Rules Review
On Bloody Ground Rules Review In this video, I take a closer look at two historical tabletop wargaming rulebooks from the On Bloody Ground series by WIP Games and Miniatures: The Wars of the Roses and The Punic Wars. Written by David and Daniel Toone, these rules are a streamlined descendant of classic systems like Warhammer Ancient Battles, designed for fast, tactical tabletop battles without unnecessary complexity. I discuss the core mechanics, how the rules capture the feel of each historical period, and whether they can work with different miniature scales—including my own 6mm multi-based armies. Are these rules accessible for beginners? Do they offer enough depth for experienced players? And can they handle everything from English civil war battles to Roman legions and Carthaginian war elephants? Let’s take a closer look at how this flexible rules engine performs on the tabletop. My previous Walkthrough of the PBG books for the Norman Conquest and El Cid & the Reconquista: https://youtu.be/nZ3kHQe-dBU?si=6UyJgvfXfnO5QnHY Join this channel to get access to perks: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-OyOZpU-R7PNBOFwP4mu3g/join

On Bloody Ground Rules Review

4 weeks ago 9 3 1 0
Can one ruleset cover 2,000 years of warfare? Historical tabletop wargamers are always on the lookout for rule systems that strike the right balance between accessibility, historical flavour, and tactical depth. In my latest video, I take a closer look at two rulebooks from the growing On Bloody Ground series by WIP Games and Miniatures: The Wars of the Roses and The Punic Wars. Written by father-and-son design team David and Daniel Toone, the On Bloody Ground system has steadily expanded over the past few years. What began as a small set of rules covering the Norman Conquest and the Reconquista has now grown into a range of more than a dozen books covering multiple historical periods—from the American Civil War to Caesar’s campaigns and the English Civil War. At the heart of the system is a rules engine inspired by the classic Warhammer Ancient Battles style of ranked combat, but streamlined to avoid unnecessary complexity. Instead of introducing gimmicks or novelty mechanics, the designers focus on clear, traditional tabletop wargaming principles: movement, morale, formations, and decisive combat between units. The result is a system that feels familiar to experienced wargamers while remaining accessible for newcomers. In the video, I explore how these mechanics translate into two very different historical periods. The Wars of the Roses brings late medieval English warfare to the tabletop, where blocks of billmen, men-at-arms, and longbowmen clash in brutal infantry engagements led by ambitious nobles. The Punic Wars, on the other hand, shift the action to the ancient Mediterranean, where Roman legions face the diverse armies of Carthage, complete with Iberian warriors, Numidian cavalry, and the ever-popular war elephants. One interesting challenge for me when reviewing these rules was scale. The system assumes individually based figures (often in 28mm scale) grouped together on movement trays. My own collections for both periods are quite different: 6mm armies that are permanently multi-based. In the video, I explore whether the system can be adapted to work with smaller-scale miniatures and alternative basing styles without losing the intended gameplay experience. The answer, happily, is yes. With a few simple adjustments, the rules proved flexible enough to accommodate different collections while still delivering engaging and decisive tabletop battles. That adaptability is one of the strengths of the On Bloody Ground system, making it suitable for a wide range of players and miniature scales.

Can one ruleset cover 2,000 years of warfare?

4 weeks ago 1 0 0 0
Fluff vs Cruch in Rulebooks
Fluff vs Cruch in Rulebooks How much fluff should a wargame rulebook really contain? In this video I explore the delicate balance between lore, history, and background material versus clear rules mechanics in tabletop wargaming rulebooks. Fantasy and sci-fi games often rely heavily on lore to explain their worlds, factions, and even the laws of physics, while historical wargames already have vast libraries of real-world research behind them. So how much background information does a rulebook really need before it becomes filler? And at what point does stripping things back to pure mechanics remove the flavour that makes a game feel authentic? Join the discussion as we look at the role of fluff vs substance in rule design and how it shapes the way we experience our favourite tabletop wargames. Join this channel to get access to perks: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-OyOZpU-R7PNBOFwP4mu3g/join

Fluff vs Cruch in Rulebooks

4 weeks ago 7 2 0 0
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The Rulebook Trap: Fluff vs Substance One of the interesting quirks of the tabletop wargaming hobby is that our rulebooks often serve two very different purposes at the same time. On the one hand, they’re instruction manuals that explain the mechanics of the game. On the other hand, they’re often part history book, part lore compendium, and sometimes even part art book designed to inspire players. That combination raises an interesting question: how much fluff should a wargame rulebook really contain Today, my video explores the balance between background material and rules mechanics in tabletop wargaming rulebooks. Some gamers love diving into rich lore and historical explanations, while others just want to find the rules quickly and get miniatures onto the table. That tension between storytelling and practicality can shape the entire reading experience of a rulebook. The discussion becomes even more interesting when you compare fantasy and science fiction games with historical wargames. In fictional settings, everything about the universe has been created by the authors, from the factions and technology to the basic assumptions about how the world works. Lore isn’t just decorative in those games; it helps players understand the setting itself. Without background material explaining the world, the motivations of its factions, and the nature of its technology or magic, the rules can feel disconnected from the setting. Historical wargames approach the problem from the opposite direction. The setting already exists in the real world, and players have access to countless books, documentaries, and historical studies if they want to explore the period in more detail. That means rulebooks don’t necessarily need to carry the same burden of explaining the world. A little context can provide flavour and help explain design choices, but too much history can start to feel like unnecessary page filler when players already have other resources available. Of course, the balance isn’t always easy to strike. Too much background material can make a rulebook difficult to navigate during a game, while too little flavour can leave the system feeling dry and mechanical. Somewhere between those extremes lies the sweet spot where rules clarity and thematic immersion support each other perfectly.

The Rulebook Trap: Fluff vs Substance

4 weeks ago 6 0 0 0
Battle Chronicle Chat about Playtesting
Battle Chronicle Chat about Playtesting I chat with Ray Rousell (Fellow 'Reject' and blogger) about the Playtesting process for the Battle Chronicle: Retreat from Moscow project. Join the Battle Chronicle Mailing List for regular updates, release news, playtest materials, and development updates. No spam—just the good stuff. https://www.pazoot.com/battle-chronicle Ray's Don't throw a One blog https://onelover-ray.blogspot.com/ Pazoot Battle Chronicle Page https://www.pazoot.com/battle-chronicle Pazoot YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@Pazoot-wargaming Join this channel to get access to perks: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-OyOZpU-R7PNBOFwP4mu3g/join

Battle Chronicle Chat about Playtesting

1 month ago 1 0 0 0
Automated Enemy rules
Automated Enemy rules A quick bit from a longer chat between Ray and me discussing the enemy automation rules in the Battle Chronicle rules we are developing with Paul from Pazoot.com

Automated Enemy rules

1 month ago 0 0 0 0
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Battle Chronicle Playtesting Chat This evening’s video is a bit of a behind-the-scenes chat, as I sit down with Ray Rousell, fellow “Reject”, and the man behind Don’t Throw a One, to talk about the playtesting process for our upcoming skirmish campaign book, Battle Chronicle: Retreat from Moscow. As many of you already know, this project has been a collaboration with Paul over on the Pazoot Channel. Together, we’ve been developing a set of skirmish rules designed to link games into a narrative-driven campaign, all of which will eventually be pulled together into a dedicated campaign booklet. There’s no official release date just yet, and that’s very much by design. We’d rather take the time to get it right than rush something out the door and regret it later (a radical concept, I know). Ray and I have both been involved in the playtesting side of things, and in this short discussion, we reflect on how that process has gone so far. What’s worked, what hasn’t, and, perhaps most importantly, whether we’d willingly put ourselves through it all again. Spoiler: playtesting is equal parts inspiration, frustration, and the occasional “why did we think this was a good idea?” moment. If you’d like to follow along with the project, you can join the Battle Chronicle mailing list for updates, release news, playtest materials, and development insights. No spam, just the good stuff: https://www.pazoot.com/battle-chronicle

Battle Chronicle Playtesting Chat

1 month ago 1 0 0 0
The Quiet Rules Arms Race of the 1970's #WargameOrigins #1970sGaming #TabletopHistory
The Quiet Rules Arms Race of the 1970's #WargameOrigins #1970sGaming #TabletopHistory The 1970s weren’t peaceful for wargame design. This video traces how competing philosophies from Featherstone, Grant, Barker, and Young created the diverse rules landscape modern tabletop wargamers enjoy today.

The Quiet Rules Arms Race of the 1970's #WargameOrigins #1970sGaming #TabletopHistory

1 month ago 4 1 0 0

I'd need a shipping container to bring it all with me.

1 month ago 0 2 0 0