Battleward

Featured Games

This is a very short review list of the various games that are out there and where you can find them. Sometimes the games are out of print and the publishing house is defunct, when that occurs sometimes those game rules are very difficult to procure, and the cost can be pricey. I'll be adding more game reviews as time goes along and I get the chance to write and add them. If there any games (or several) that you would like to see on this page, then post a request in the forum. Or else, you could write your own game review (checking spelling and grammar please) and submit it to "admin at battleward dot com"

I'm also looking to categorize the list of games so scrolling won't be as much a chore. So, stay tuned.

Board Games

• Victory in the Pacific - "Victory in the Pacific" is a classic board game designed by Richard Hamblen and published by Avalon Hill in 1977. It's a strategic World War II naval wargame that focuses on the conflict between the United States and Japan in the Pacific theater. It is a historically accurate and strategically deep wargame that offers an engaging experience for players interested in the Pacific theater of World War II. The map divides the Pacific Ocean into 13 areas and the ships involved are historically accurate. Its complexity and lengthy playtime may be intimidating for newcomers, but for dedicated wargamers, it provides a rewarding and challenging experience. If you appreciate detailed historical simulations and are willing to invest time in learning the rules, it's a classic game worth trying.
  Website: Victory in the Pacific at Noble Knight Games


• Drang Nach Osten! - "Drang Nach Osten!" by GDW and published in 1973 is an operational simulation of the first nine and a half months of the Russo-German War starting in 1941. As part of the Europa series, it uses the KURSK Game System and adds various subroutines for a detailed experience. The game covers a vast range of military aspects, including air and naval operations. It's designed for experienced players due to its complexity and extensive scenario options. The game's scale primarily involves division, brigade, regiment, and battalion levels, providing a comprehensive view of the Eastern Front during WWII​. There are nearly 1800 counters played on 5 detailed maps representing the Eastern Front. It's been referred to as the ultimate monster game. A friend and I, while we were in high school, actually set the game up on a plywood table and played it out. It took months, maybe a year. I still have nightmares of the stacks and stacks of counters we had to move each turn. It's a daunting task to play this game of gargantuan proportions for months on end.
  Website:Drang Nacht Osten! at Noble Knight Games


• Iron, Blood, Snow & Mud - The game, "Iron, Blood, Snow & Mud by Phalanx was released 2023. It's a two-player World War Two starter game that is somewhat reminiscent of "Russian Campaign" by Avalon Hill. The description on the game's webpage states, "Iron, Blood, Snow & Mud is a low complexity, quick-playing two-player game covering the Eastern Front of World War II. Lead the battle-hardened Axis forces through mud and snow and unimaginably vast enemy territory, and make the most of your initially superior numbers and overwhelming air support, all the while trying to protect your overstretched supply lines. Or take control of the Soviet Red Army and pick your fights carefully, taking advantage of the terrain, partisans, and fabled Russian weather to hamper the lighting-quick panzer attacks, and slow down the Axis advance sufficiently to allow your reinforcements to arrive and the tide to turn. Whichever side you play, careful positioning of your units to allow for rapid movement, managing the impact of the seasons on your plans, and knowing when to gamble all to make or break a breakthrough, are the keys to success."

  The reviews have been mostly positive with few complaints. It might very well be a game worth getting. On Noble Knight Games it's selling for a cool $29.95

  Game Publisher: Phalanx: Iron, Blood, Snow & Mud


• Squad Leader - Avalon Hill's 1977 Squad Leader is a classic board game that offers a rich, tactical warfare experience set in World War II. Renowned for its depth and strategic complexity, the game challenges players to manage infantry squads and armored units through various scenarios. Its innovative game mechanics and attention to historical detail have made it a staple among war game enthusiasts. Squad Leader's learning curve is steep, but it rewards dedicated players with a deeply engaging and endlessly replayable gaming experience, cementing its legacy as a masterpiece in the war gaming genre.
  Website: Noble Knight Games: Avalon HIll's Squad Leader


• Panzerblitz - PanzerBlitz, published in 1970 by Avalon Hill is a pioneering board wargame set in World War II's Eastern Front, offers players a tactical level simulation. Renowned for its introduction of hexagonal grid maps and counters to represent military units, the game emphasizes strategic depth and realism. Players command either German or Soviet forces, engaging in various scenarios that require thoughtful planning and strategy. Despite its age, PanzerBlitz remains a beloved classic in the wargaming community, appreciated for its historical accuracy, complexity, and replay value, making it a landmark title in the genre. We had a lot of fun playing theis game back in the 70's. I highly recommend it!
  Website: Noble Knight Games: AH Pamzerblitz


• Quartermaster General: 1914 - "Quartermaster General: 1914" is a World War I card-driven grand strategy game praised for its approachable gameplay and historical engagement. It differs from other WWI games by focusing on logistics and strategy over combat specifics, using cards to drive actions without dice rolls for combat. This game, designed by Ian Brody and published by Ares Games, offers a refreshing perspective on military conflict, encouraging strategic planning and resource management. It's suitable for 2–5 players, ages 13 and up, and games last about 90–120 minutes.
  Websute: Ares: Quartermaster General: 1914


• Wings of Glory, World War I - "Wings of Glory, World War I" is a dynamic tabletop game that allows players to simulate aerial combat during WWI using beautifully detailed miniature aircraft and the use of visually appealing maneuver cards. This dice-less game stands out for its easy-to-learn mechanics, making it accessible to beginners while still offering depth for seasoned gamers. Its historical accuracy in representing different aircraft models and their capabilities adds a layer of strategy, as players must consider their plane's strengths and weaknesses. Overall, "Wings of Glory" offers an engaging blend of historical immersion and tactical gameplay, appealing to history buffs and tabletop gamers alike.
  Website: Ares: Wings of Glory, World War I


• World of Tanks -
• Russian Campaign -

• Terrible Swift Sword - Award winning "Terrible Swift Sword" (TSS) by SPI is highly regarded in the wargaming community for its detailed simulation of the Battle of Gettysburg. It's celebrated for its depth and complexity, offering an immersive experience of one of the American Civil War's pivotal battles. The game is known for its accuracy in unit representation and tactical options, appealing to history enthusiasts and hardcore gamers seeking a thorough battlefield simulation. Its rich gameplay mechanics and strategic depth make it a standout title for those interested in military history and wargaming. However, the game can take longer to play than the time it took for the actual battle.
  Website: Noble Knight Games: Terrible Swift Sword


• Tactics II -
• Richthofen's War -

Role Playing Games

• Pathfinder - The latest significant entry into the fantasy role-playing game (RPG) genre, Pathfinder (PF), emerges as a commendable effort to demystify the complexities and confusions that have marred some versions of Dungeons & Dragons (D&D). Specifically, Pathfinder's first edition took an innovative step by enhancing the System Reference Document (SRD) based on the revised 3rd edition of Dungeons & Dragons, which was then published by Wizards of the Coast. This enhancement was aimed at ensuring backward compatibility with that particular edition of D&D, facilitating a smoother transition for players familiar with the earlier system. In 2018, Pathfinder introduced an edition that decisively moved away from its compatibility with D&D versions, thereby establishing a distinct identity. This evolution marks Pathfinder's transition into a standalone entity within the RPG landscape. Despite these changes, the core gameplay and the requirement for playing aids of Pathfinder remain strikingly similar to those of D&D, reflecting its roots in the traditional fantasy RPG framework. Published by Paizo, Pathfinder distinguishes itself through a commitment to clarity and accessibility, addressing the feedback and preferences of the RPG community. The game's development underscores a dedication to refining and enhancing the RPG experience, drawing both from its origins in D&D and its unique vision for the future of role-playing games.
  Website: Paizo: Pathfinder


• Dungeons & Dragons -


• GDW Classic Traveller - Game Designer's Workshop's (GDW)"Traveller" was published in 1977 and quickly became the standard for these type games. Conceived by Marc Miller, the retronym Classic Traveller game stands as a landmark in sci-fi RPGs, lauded for its vast universe and exploratory freedom. Its unique "life path" system for character creation and intricate world-building set a new standard, profoundly influencing the genre. "Traveller" delves into the complexities of space-faring civilizations and socio-political dynamics, offering a detailed framework for adventure. Despite GDW's closure, its legacy endures through various publishers, each adding their nuances while preserving the classic essence. This game is a testament to the enduring allure of crafting and navigating the intricacies of the cosmos. Some critics have often compared "Traveller" to a 1950s B-movie in it's nuance and imagery.
  Website: Far Future Enterprises: Classic Traveller


• Universe - "Universe," developed by SPI, is a noteworthy addition to the science fiction RPG genre, offering a system that balances simplicity with depth. Its character creation and world-building mechanics help engulf players into a richly imagined cosmos, though it lacks the extensive support and visual flair of contemporaries like "Traveller." Despite its potential, "Universe" struggled with market visibility due to limited expansions and support from its publisher. Nonetheless, for RPG enthusiasts seeking a blend of straightforward gameplay and expansive storytelling possibilities, "Universe" remains a compelling, if underappreciated, option.
  Website: Battleward.com hopes to have Universe (1st and 2nd editions) available for download soon.
  Jim Goltz Universe Resources


• Space Opera - "Space Opera" presents a science fiction role-playing game that intertwines complexity with depth, demanding a significant investment from its players. Its intricate mechanics and extensive use of charts and tables may pose a barrier to immersion for some. However, those who engage with its detailed starship creation and combat systems may find a richly rewarding experience. Despite the potential for extended gameplay sessions, the depth of narrative and world-building offers a unique appeal for enthusiasts of high-complexity games, making it a distinctive choice in the RPG genre.
  Website: Fantasy Games Unlimited: Space Opera


• Gamma World -


• Call of Cthulhu - "Call of Cthulhu" is a horror fiction role-playing game inspired by H.P. Lovecraft's story of the same name and the associated Cthulhu Mythos. Published by Chaosium in 1981, it's now in its seventh edition. The game utilizes the Basic Role-Playing (BRP) system with special rules for sanity and luck, emphasizing a darker version of our world where fear of the unknown prevails. Players, called Investigators, delve into mysteries that often lead to encounters with supernatural and cosmic horrors, risking their sanity to uncover the truth.
  Website: Chaosium: Call of Cthulhu


• Justice Inc - "Justice Inc," launched in 1984 by Hero Games, adeptly captures the essence of pulp fiction narratives, transporting players to the adventurous era of the 1930s and 1940s. Unlike its sibling "Champions," which focuses on superpowers, "Justice Inc" introduces "talents" to embody its characters' capabilities, offering a nuanced approach to heroism. Despite its discontinuation and mixed reviews, "Justice Inc" stands out for its immersive experience into yesteryear's tales, remaining a cherished title for enthusiasts of the genre. For those interested, a PDF version is still accessible, ensuring this game's legacy continues.
  Website: Hero Games: Justice Inc (PDF)

Miniatures Games

Ancients

 - From 3000 BC to 750 AD

• To The Strongest - "To the Strongest! Ancient & Medieval Rules" is a simplified set for ancient and medieval tabletop wargaming that allows battles to be fought and concluded in less than two hours. It supports both small and large-scale engagements, playable with miniatures of any scale without the need for measurement, thanks to a grid system. The game uses a unique activation system with playing cards or chits, introducing an element of unpredictability to movements and combat outcomes, making it accessible and enjoyable for both veteran and novice wargamers​.
  Website: Wargames Foundry: To the Strongest


• L'Art De La Guerre - "L'Art de la Guerre" is praised for its thoughtful approach to ancient and medieval wargaming, offering a blend of simplicity in mechanics with strategic depth. It's highlighted for features like the Numidian light horse's ability to engage heavier opponents effectively and a battle rhythm that emphasizes troop quality and command limitations without overwhelming players. The game facilitates quick learning and adaptation for new players while retaining nuanced strategic options for veterans. Its army selection flexibility is particularly appreciated, allowing for diverse troop configurations.
  Website: L'Art De La Guerre, English


• Warhammer Ancient Battles - "Warhammer Ancient Battles," (WAB) often referred to as "Warhammer Ancients," is a historical miniature wargame produced by Games Workshop's publishing division. It utilizes a variant of the rules used in the fantasy game Warhammer Fantasy Battle, adapted for historical and ancient warfare. This game allows players to simulate large-scale battles from various periods of ancient history, using miniatures to represent historical units. Warhammer Ancients was favored for bringing the Warhammer system's ease of play and accessibility to historical wargaming, allowing for battles across different cultures and eras with a unified rule set.
  Website: Noble Knight Games: Warhammer Ancients


• Hail Caesar - Warlord Games' "Hail Caesar" is a tabletop wargame that allows players to recreate large-scale battles from the biblical era to the medieval period. It is known for its flexibility, catering to various historical periods with comprehensive rules that balance simplicity and depth. The game emphasizes command and control, with players managing units in formations, reflecting the chaos and fluidity of ancient warfare. "Hail Caesar" is praised for its ability to handle both skirmishes and massive battles, making it a favorite among historical wargaming enthusiasts seeking a mix of historical accuracy and engaging gameplay.
  Website: Warlord Games: Hail Caesar

Medieval

 - From 500 AD - 1500

*English Civil War

 - From 1639 to 1653

*American Revolutionary War

 - From 1775 to 1783

Napoleonic

 - From 1799 to 1815

• Age of Eagles - "Age of Eagles" is a wargaming ruleset adapted from "Fire and Fury" to recreate the grand tactical battles of the Napoleonic era. It emphasizes historical accuracy, unit organization, and battlefield tactics, allowing players to experience the complexities of Napoleonic warfare. This game is well-regarded for its depth, strategic gameplay, and the way it captures the essence of the period, making it a favorite among historical wargaming enthusiasts seeking an immersive Napoleonic battle experience. There is a Facebook Age of Eagles page.
  Website: Age of Eagles


• Snappy Nappy - Don't let the name of the game throw you off, "Snappy Nappy" is a known for its straightforward, accessible rules and operational-level gameplay, capturing the essence of Napoleonic warfare. A lot of the gamers I asked commended its clarity, ease of learning, and the dynamic nature of games that conclude within an evening. Snappy Nappy's operational scope encourages strategic thinking over tactical minutiae. Also, it's been pointed out that unlike some other more complex games the play highlights the game's ability to create engaging, historically evocative scenarios with manageable forces, offering a satisfying blend of simplicity and depth. This balance makes "Snappy Nappy" a preferred set for both newcomers and veterans of Napoleonic wargaming.
  Website: On Military Matters: Snappy Nappy


• Bataille Empire - "Bataille Empire" is a miniatures game covering the Napoleonic Wars from 1792 to 1815, focusing on battalion or regimental level. Players can use any scale of miniatures and the rules are designed for fast gameplay without losing realism. It features formations, skirmishers, morale, national characteristics, and more. The rulebook includes over 130 army lists and is complete without needing supplements. Players can engage in historical scenarios or fictional battles.​ Two versions of the game have been released. The game was originally released in the French language, but due to the popularity of this game English language versions are available from various sellers.
  Website: Bataille Empire (in French)


• Empire - "Empire" is a set of rules for Napoleonic Era miniatures wargames, first published in 1975. It offers general rules for enacting any battle from this period, including aspects like leader ratings, troop types, frontage, range, and maneuverability. Over the years, multiple editions have added new rules and concepts, such as "Telescoping Time" and tactical reactions. Notably, "Empire" was considered the dominant miniatures wargaming rules system during the 1980s, influencing both historical and non-historical game designs​. According to some folks the best version was Empire III, while some consider Empire IV to be the ultimate. There are rumors that Empire 7 is in the works, alas most grognards consider this a myth. Ultimately, Empire set standards that even today are still unmatched, and yet todays Napoleonic miniatures game designs are more focused on quick and easier play. Although the game rules are out of print, some sellers have Empire rules sets they're willing to sell, but the pricing could be prohibitive.
  Website: The Alan D. Simmons Empire Napoleonic War Game Rules Discussion Forum (Facebook)


• Piquet - The "Piquet" miniatures game offers rules, supplements, and scenarios for various historical periods, from ancient times through the Vietnam era. A feature release, "Battle Command Musket to Rifle 1700-1900," emphasizes command decisions and fog of war with a deck of sequence cards and an Action Matrix, letting players make strategic choices to influence the battle. This game covers a wide range of historical periods and wars, providing opportunities for diverse and immersive gameplay experiences.
  Website: Piquet Wargames


• Élan Deluxe Edition - "Élan Deluxe Edition" is a tactical-level Napoleonic wargame for 15-25 mm miniatures, offering a refined system that emphasizes historical tactics and command flexibility. Developed in Australia by Phillip A. Jones, it's the culmination of over five years of development and player feedback, enhancing simplicity, playability, and clarity. The game features simultaneous and alternate actions, representing units at the battalion and regiment level, and supports various basing systems and scales. Players can enjoy tactical depth and historical scenarios, and the rules are available as a free PDF​​.
  Website: DeepFriedHappyMice: Élan Deluxe (free PDF)

American Civil War

 - From 1861 to 1865

• Carnage & Glory II - On its second incarnation, "Carnage & Glory II" (C&G) is a unique, computer-mediated tabletop wargame covering the years 1740 to 1871 using it's "On Campaign" and "Tactical upgrades" and is renowned for its historical accuracy and detailed simulation of battlefield conditions. It employs software to manage elements like weather, morale, and combat, freeing players from complex bookkeeping. C&G supports various historical scenarios and offers a deep tactical experience, allowing players to feel more like generals than accountants. This game is highly respected among military historians and enthusiasts for its realistic portrayal of historical warfare​​.
  Website: Carnage & Glory


• Johnny Reb - "Johnny Reb" designed by John Hill, is a set of rules for the American Civil War, featuring simultaneous movement and strong command-and-control elements. It's designed for 10mm to 25 mm figures, with a turn representing 20 minutes and each figure representing 30 men. The game has detailed, if somewhat disorganized, rules for various aspects, including infantry, artillery, morale, and charges. It's known for its complex but comprehensive mechanics, providing a deep and somewhat historically accurate wargaming experience. Although out of print, a set of game rules can be had from places like Grandiosity and Noble Knight Games​.
  Website: Johnny Reb at Noble Knight Games


• Across a Deadly Field - "Across a Deadly Field" (ADF) by John Hill (the same author who designed Johnny Reb III) is an American Civil War miniature wargame designed to simulate large battles on a reduced scale, focusing on clarity, scale, and playability. It allows for large engagements in a smaller physical space, aiming to provide a realistic and enjoyable gaming experience. The game is well-received for its ability to handle divisional-sized scenarios with 15mm figures efficiently, even for new players. The rules are available for purchase from Osprey Publishing and other retailers like Noble Knight Games​​​​.
  Website: Across a Deadly Field


• Stars n Bars -"Stars n Bars" is a regimental-level game for the American Civil War, heavily inspired by the EMPIRE 3rd edition Napoleonic miniatures rules. It emphasizes the importance of command and control and balances between tactical and grand tactical thinking." The game is out of print making it somewhat of a unicorn as it is very difficult to come by.
  Website: Stars n Bars on Ebay


• Bloody Big Battles - "Bloody Big Battles", designed by Chris Pringle, stands out in the wargaming community for its streamlined approach to 19th-century warfare. Praised for its easy-to-learn mechanics, the game allows for large-scale battles to be played out efficiently and enjoyably. With its flexible scaling, players can adapt battles to suit their needs, making it a versatile choice for both novices and veterans. While it may lack the flashy presentation of modern sets, its solid gameplay and strategic depth more than compensate, offering a rewarding experience for those interested in historical tabletop warfare.
  Website: Bloody Bif Battles at North Star Military Figures

Colonial

 - From 1815 to 1914

• Smooth & Rifled - "Smooth & Rifled" by Dadi & Piombo is a set of wargame rules focusing on skirmishes during the colonial era (although with the supplements any period from 1700 to 1900 can be gamed), using 15, 20 or 28mm miniatures (even 40mm and 54mm figures), where each miniature figure represents one individual. The game utilizes an initiative system where units roll 3d6 to determine their actions for the turn, with officers providing bonuses. The more actions a unit takes, the more those actions cost, encouraging strategic planning and management of resources. Figures can act independently or in groups, with larger units requiring command actions for efficient movement. Combat is resolved by rolling dice for each firing figure or group, with hits potentially causing stun or kill results. The game is praised for its simplicity and elegance, producing realistic outcomes and offering a degree of unpredictability that keeps engagements dynamic and engaging. It's designed for 15mm miniatures, offering a manageable scale for players to recreate historical skirmishes and larger battles​
  Website: Smooth & Rifled at Dadi & Piombo Publishing
  

World War One

 - From 1914 to 1918

• Westfront - Westfront offers a strategic gaming experience set in World War I, catering to company to battalion-level engagements with miniatures ranging from 1/72 to 10mm scale. While emphasizing simplicity, the game incorporates various elements such as communication challenges, top-down orders, and unpredictable events like units becoming lost, adding depth to gameplay. With a flexible army list structure, players can assemble their forces from a range of options including infantry, cavalry, vehicles, artillery, and fortifications, with units behaving historically across four distinct theaters of war. Environmental factors like weather and terrain impact gameplay, affecting the performance of certain units, such as armored vehicles struggling in muddy conditions. Westfront chronicles the progression of the conflict, mirroring the evolution of tactics and technology throughout the war's duration. Early war scenarios lack sophisticated artillery tactics and introduce basic unit types, while mid-war engagements feature creeping artillery barrages and the debut of tanks. Late war battles showcase advanced infantry maneuvers and the introduction of more formidable weaponry like anti-tank rifles. The game provides comprehensive army lists for both Allied and Central Powers, offering varied infantry and cavalry qualities, and categorizing artillery into trench mortars, field guns, howitzers, and heavy artillery. Various fortifications such as trenches, dugouts, and pillboxes add to the tactical depth. Designed for approximately two-hour sessions, Westfront aims to deliver an immersive World War I experience, drawing on extensive research to recreate the challenges faced by soldiers on the battlefield. Gameplay mechanics simulate realistic scenarios, such as units running low on ammunition and the complexities of coordinating artillery barrages amidst the fog of war, adding layers of strategy and tension to each engagement.
  Website: Wargame Vault: Westfront
  Facebook: Ostfront Publishing


• H-M-G - HMG is a set of World War One wargame rules for use with any scale of figure (6mm, 15mm, 20mm, 28mm ...) with infantry companies of between 4 and 8 figures used and use a ‘I go - You go’ sequence of play..
  Website: H-M-G at Agema

World War Two

 - From 1939 to 1945

• Battlefront WWII - "Battlefront WWII," developed by Fire and Fury Games, is a detailed and flexible system designed for WWII miniature wargaming at the tactical level. The tactical unit is the squad or section. The rules work well with multiple popular scales: 5mm, 10mm, 15mm, and 20mm, and with modifications, it can also accommodate 25mm. This variety allows players to choose a scale that fits their budget, collection, and visual preferences. While the smaller scales like 5mm are budget-friendly and allow for vast armies on the table, larger scales like 15mm and 20mm offer more detail and presence. Each scale provides a different look and feel to the battles, with the game mechanics flexible enough to accommodate the varied base sizes and figure densities. The game is praised for its ability to represent historical accuracy and the tactical complexities of WWII combat, offering a deep and immersive wargaming experience​..
  Website: Battleground at Fire and Fury Games


• Mein Panzer - Mein Panzer WW2 miniatures game by Old Dominion Game Works is a comprehensive rule system for company-level combined arms warfare from WWI to the present. The game is known for its balance between historical accuracy and playability, offering detailed vehicle modeling and a variety of game mechanics without overwhelming complexity. The game allows for both large and small scale (micro-armor to 15 mm) battles, making it versatile and enjoyable for different play styles. More information can be had at the publisher's web page.
  Website: Old Dominion Game Works: Mein Panzer


• Chain of Command - "Chain of Command" is a highly praised WW2 miniature wargame focusing on the importance of leadership and command. With a unique command dice system, it simulates the unpredictable nature of war. The game emphasizes platoon-level actions and includes a variety of support options, allowing for flexible force organization and realistic battle scenarios. Its innovative patrol phase for deployment adds depth and strategy. The game's focus on force morale over simple elimination and its historical accuracy make it a standout choice for enthusiasts seeking a challenging and immersive experience​. Chain of Command is flexible in terms of scale but is commonly played at 28mm as suggested by the developers, Too Fat Lardies. Many players also enjoy the game at 15mm, which is more cost-effective and still provides a detailed and immersive experience​.
  Website: Chain of Command at Two Fat Lardies


• Blitzkrieg Commander IV - "Blitzkrieg Commander IV" (BKC4) is praised for being a middle ground fast-play system that offers somewhat realistic results. The combat system is appreciated for its fluidity and quick pace, integrating hits, suppression, and fallback into the combat mechanics effectively. The game is structured around three distinct phases, each allowing for strategic decisions, and is noted for its unique Initiative Phase tied to a unit’s Tactical Doctrine. Commanding troops is a mechanic that players seem to either love or hate, but it's generally seen as adding narrative and depth to the game, especially at the battalion/regimental scale it represents. BKC4 is flexible when it comes to optional rules and house rules, allowing players to customize their games significantly. It's also convenient in that only one book is needed to play virtually all WW2 scenarios, contrasting with other systems that might require multiple books. One critique, however, is that the profiles/terrain/visibility mechanics can be confusing and somewhat counterintuitive compared to the rest of the game's design. And my own criticism of saving throws which the game abundantly uses. BKC4 can be played at various scales, with 15mm and 28mm being among the most popular for World War II miniatures. The flexibility of the rules often allows players to adapt the game to their preferred scale and collection of miniatures.
  Website: Blitizkrieg Commander IV at Pendraken


• I Ain't Been Shot Mum - "I Ain't Been Shot, Mum" (IABSM) is a company-level WW2 miniature wargame by Too Fat Lardies, focusing on the narrative and fun aspects of gaming rather than competitive play. The game doesn't come with army lists but has numerous supplements covering a wide range of forces. The intended scale is 15mm, although it's adaptable to other scales. IABSM is card-driven, representing various units, heroes, and events, with players required to make and print their own unit cards. This allows for great adaptability, but some players might find it a bit cumbersome. The game introduces a 'tea break' card, adding randomness and requiring players to plan for the unexpected. It also employs 'blinds' to simulate the Fog of War, representing either actual units or suspected enemy activity. Units are categorized by initiative dice, which are used for various actions and decrease as units take casualties. The game supports detailed mechanics for different types of troops and weapons, and players can add complexity with optional rules. While some find the ruleset feels like an "80% finished game," it's appreciated by those looking for a more relaxed and narrative-driven gaming experience​
  Website: I Ain't Been Shot Mum at Two Fat Lardies

Modern Warfare

 - From 1946 to the present

Science Fiction

Fantasy

All-Encompassing