War Artisan's Workshop

Essays

Scenario Design
A discussion of how designing your own scenarios can enhance the wargame experience, plus some practical tips on how to go about it.
Let the Games Begin!
The origin and evolution of recreational miniature wargaming, from the seventeeth century to the present. Here's a useful diagram to accompany the text - DIAGRAM
The (Very Real) Difference
An examination of the ways in which historical wargaming is not like non-historical wargaming, and why some gamers don't see the difference. "There's much more drama in what is, and what was, than anything the human imagination can dream of." - Ken Burns
Wargaming 18th Century Naval Actions
A survey of rule sets that can be used for naval wargaming in the eighteenth century. Originally published as an article in the Autumn 2014 Journal of the Seven Years War Association (more info about the Association and the Journal HERE.)
Integrated Game Design
An outline of my recent thoughts on how the various elements of a game design integrate to create a compelling gaming experience.
How to Win Wargames
The long-awaited contribution from guest essayist Elliott W. James, originally titled "The Taxonomy of Defeat" which is now the title of the final section of a comprehensive application of Clausewitz' principles of war to the problem of success in historical wargaming (or, indeed, any strategy game).