I wish my high school classes used such engaging #GamesForLearning assignments as Student-Designed Histories developed by @gamingthepast: interactive fiction based on carefully considered research of people from the past and the decisions (and consequences) they faced.
https://hobbygamesrecce.blogspot.com/2026/03/choose-your-own-history-path.html
#HobbyGamesRecce
Why do I need so many games about one historical subject? #Wargames and #Boardgames on the same battle can offer different perspectives in how they model historical elements, varying our experiences and, with some reflection, making such games ideal as #GamesForLearning.
https://hobbygamesrecce.blogspot.com/2026/03/one-battle-multiple-games.html
Matrix Games are good for exploring a situation: historical, near future, or currently unfolding. This one "rapidly produced" fits the moment and might help people better understand the many moving parts in this evolving situation.
(Apologies for the LinkedIn link....)
https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:ugcPost:7414493001244188672/
Here is my rapidly produced Matrix Game, Crisis in Caracas, where you can play out the next couple of weeks of Venezuela’s power vacuum. I’ve also included an alternative starting scenario: what if the raid failed and Maduro is still in power? The motivation is simple. Stunning events happen, and almost immediately people start asking: “What next?” Commentary fills the gap, but speculation often collapses complex situations into single narratives or linear forecasts. Matrix Games offer a different way in. They can be built quickly, especially by those with experience, but AI is making that barrier lower (provided you have trained the AI). That speed matters. It means subject matter experts and informed generalists can explore unfolding crises while uncertainty is still real, rather than after history has hardened into “what actually happened.” Matrix Games don’t rely on heavy rulesets or detailed models. Instead, they focus on arguments, interests, and consequences, explored through immersive role play. The aim isn’t prediction; it’s insight—surfacing plausible pathways, tensions, and unintended effects that emerge when multiple actors pursue competing goals. Good facilitation absolutely helps. A skilled umpire keeps things grounded and productive. But the fastest way to get better at Matrix Games is still the same as it’s always been: just start. Build one. Run it. Learn from it. One of the persistent problems with using older, historical scenarios is that players already know the outcome. That makes it too easy to argue from hindsight, cite facts selectively, and close down imagination. Contemporary or speculative scenarios force players to think in terms of capability, perception, legitimacy, and risk—the things decision-makers actually wrestle with in real time. Feel free to alter the starting situation as the real world events progress. Let me know what you think and how your game worked out...
Wargame Vault’s Winter Offensive sale puts all my wargame rules at 25% off until 10 a.m. EST Jan. 2. Skirmish Kids and Panzer Kids. Operation Drumbeat u-boat action. (And a few other titles.) Good ways parents can explore history with kids in the New Year.
https://www.wargamevault.com/en/publisher/3541/griffon-publishing-studio
My Panzer Kids rules are on sale 25% off until 10 a.m. EST Jan. 2. Just $5.99 for a basic set of #WW2 tank rules with add-on enhancements for a deeper tabletop #miniatures #wargame experience. Great for parents looking for a #HistoryGaming activity with the kids. Carpe ludum!
https://site.wargamevault.com/product/184081/Panzer-Kids-Deluxe?manufacturers_id=3541
#HobbyGamesRecce
I take a look at Peter’s Paperboys, Peter Dennis’ line of print-and-craft paper toy soldiers. They’ve served me well over the years with their various historical periods and versatility. This holiday season I’m reminded of the joyful playfulness they inspire.
https://hobbygamesrecce.blogspot.com/2025/12/the-joy-of-paper-soldiers.html
After a busy weekend presenting my Battle of Great Bridge #wargame at the 250th re-enactment I revisited my thoughts about good beginner games for those seeking to explore the confluence of history, games, and learning...battlegames.
#GamesForLearning #BattleOfGreatBridge
https://hobbygamesrecce.blogspot.com/2025/12/beginners-intro-to-history-gaming.html
Set up my Battle of Great Bridge wargame demo at the 250th commemoration event hosted by the City of Chesapeake, VA, Dec. 6-7. Ran many games, met some wonderful people, used the board to outline the battle, and discussed exploring history through games.
Papercraft 15mm #miniature #wargaming soldiers ready to march off to the 250th Battle of Great Bridge event tomorrow...but snow will delay our departure by a few hours when the roads will hopefully clear up.
Braving the snow tomorrow to drive down to attend the 250th commemoration of the Battle of Great Bridge Dec. 6-7 in Chesapeake, VA, where I’ll run history wargame demonstrations all weekend. If you’re in the area please stop by, say hello, and join a quick game.
Peter Schweighofer