The Wargaming Compendium

The Wargaming Compendium serves as a comprehensive guide to miniature wargaming, covering both historical and fantasy gaming. Author Henry Hyde draws from decades of experience to present core concepts, techniques, and practical advice for newcomers and veterans alike. The book addresses all major aspects of the hobby, from selecting periods and scales to painting miniatures and creating terrain. Each chapter contains step-by-step instructions, diagrams, and photographs that demonstrate key concepts and methods. The text includes detailed sections on rules development, scenario design, and campaign organization. Historical research methods and gaming resources are thoroughly documented, with extensive bibliographies and supplier lists. The work maintains a balance between fundamental wargaming principles and advanced tactical considerations. This volume represents a systematic approach to wargaming as both an intellectual pursuit and a creative hobby. Its examination of gaming theory and practice positions wargaming within the broader context of military history and strategic simulation.

Readers describe this as a comprehensive guide that effectively covers both historical and fantasy wargaming. They note its value for beginners while still offering depth for experienced gamers. Likes: - Clear photography and illustrations - Practical terrain-building instructions - Balance of basic concepts and advanced tactics - Section on wargaming history - Coverage of multiple scales and periods Dislikes: - Price point ($50-60 range) - Some found the writing style overly verbose - UK-centric focus on available products/suppliers - Limited coverage of modern (post-1945) wargaming Ratings: Amazon: 4.6/5 (83 reviews) Goodreads: 4.5/5 (21 ratings) Notable reader comments: "The terrain-making section alone is worth the price" - Amazon reviewer "Best single-volume introduction to the hobby" - TMP Forum member "Could have used more coverage of rules writing" - BoardGameGeek review

Tabletop Wargames: A Designers' and Writers' Guide by Rick Priestley and John Lambshead A guide to creating wargaming scenarios and rule systems from concept through publication.

Complete Wargames Handbook by James F. Dunnigan An examination of wargame design principles and mechanics from a professional military simulation designer.

Zones of Control: Perspectives on Wargaming by Pat Harrigan, Matthew Kirschenbaum A collection of essays exploring wargaming's impact on military training, education, and cultural development.

Playing at the World by Jon Peterson A historical analysis of wargaming's evolution from Prussian military exercises to modern tabletop gaming.

The Art of Wargaming by Peter Perla A detailed examination of professional military wargaming methods and their application in strategic planning.

🎲 Henry Hyde served as the editor of Miniature Wargames magazine and Battle Games magazine, bringing over 30 years of wargaming experience to this comprehensive guide. 🎮 The book contains over 500 photographs and illustrations, making it one of the most visually detailed wargaming resources available. ⚔️ At 520 pages, The Wargaming Compendium covers everything from ancient battles to modern warfare, including detailed sections on terrain building and miniature painting. 🏰 The author includes guidance on converting ordinary household items into wargaming terrain, helping readers create battlefields on a budget. 🎨 Hyde emphasizes the artistic side of wargaming alongside tactical elements, devoting significant attention to the aesthetic aspects of miniature painting and scenery creation.