What I’m Looking For in a Tabletop Wargame

When diving into a new tabletop wargame, several factors are essential for an engaging and enjoyable experience. From setup time to rule complexity, the quality of miniatures, and a compelling setting and narrative, each plays an important role in defining the game’s overall appeal.

Quick to Set Up and Play

One of the first things I consider is the ease and speed of setup and play. A game that requires an extensive setup process can quickly become a deterrent, especially for those with limited time. I absolutely love Core Space, but setup can take over an hour. Same with A Time of Legends: Joan of Arc, which can take FOREVER to get set up, with so many little fiddly bits.

While 40k offers rich strategic depth, the sheer number of components and the intricate details involved in setting up can be overwhelming. The plethora of rules, strategems, agendas, and more can turn what should be an exciting prelude to battle into a tedious chore.

In contrast, OnePageRules offers a refreshing alternative. True to its name, the rules are condensed into a single double-sided page, allowing for swift setup and minimal fuss. When you print out your army, you can have every single keyword at the bottom of the page for quick reference. This simplicity doesn’t detract from the depth of gameplay but rather enhances it, making it accessible for both newcomers and veterans.

Easy to Grok the Rules

A game’s ruleset should strike a balance between simplicity and depth. It should be straightforward enough for new players to grasp quickly, yet complex enough to keep seasoned gamers engaged. Again, OnePageRules excels in this regard, with a rule system that is easy to learn but difficult to master. The core mechanics are intuitive, allowing players to dive into the action without an extensive learning curve.

Exciting Miniatures

The visual appeal of a wargame is undeniably tied to the quality of its miniatures. Detailed, well-crafted miniatures not only enhance the aesthetic experience but also immerse players in the game’s universe. Warhammer 40k and Warhammer: The Old World are prime examples, known for their miniatures that are both intricate and highly customizable.

However, the high standard set by these games can sometimes come at a premium cost, which is where Mordheim, with its smaller skirmish size, and Flames of War, with its inexpensive starter boxes, offer excellent alternatives.

Compelling Setting and Narrative

Finally, a compelling setting and narrative are crucial for creating an immersive wargaming experience. The lore and background stories breathe life into the game, making each battle more than just a tactical exercise. Warhammer 40k is renowned for its rich, dystopian universe filled with epic conflicts and intricate histories.

Infinity offers a futuristic, cyberpunk aesthetic with a narrative that blends advanced technology with human drama, providing a fresh and engaging backdrop for battles.

There are some games I’ve looked at and simply chosen not to play due to having no interest in the setting at all.

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The ideal wargame, as far as I am concerned, combines quick setup, easy-to-understand rules, high-quality miniatures, and a compelling narrative. These are the metrics I use to choose what I am playing most often. Ultimately, the best wargame is one that balances these elements, creating an experience that is engaging and enjoyable.