Ways in or ways back in

I recently joined a garden railway society. As part of my membership I received a very well produced 115 page basic guide to the hobby. Not too overwhelming but useful inspiring articles and pointers where to go next. This got me thinking of what is there for new wargamers and those returning after many moons away. A way through the woods , through the plethora of blogs, forums,websites and so on. I was then reminded of Sue Laflin-Barker’s book below-

A one stop shop for gamers coming to the ancients period. I had bought it a few years ago and didn’t really give it too much attention. However with lockdown and social distance gaming it has come into its own for it contains a set of rules , guidance on terrain , figures and more. It has enthused me to try Zoom gaming with friends I first gamed with in the eighties and revisit these simple rules.

On the subject of ways in a mention must be given to “Plastic Warrior “ magazine to which I have finally got round to subscribing to. Years ago Brian gave me a few back copies, more recently the editor sent me a sample issue. I have now put my money where my mouth is. It is a really enjoyable read about plastic toy soldiers of all shapes and forms. Do consider supporting the venture which has been going since 1985!

End of game and starting another

Yesterday saw The Portable Wargame Homeguard game come to a conclusion.

I also worked on the Homeguard skirmish game .

Towards a Homeguard skirmish game...

Having finished off the German paratroopers today with a sealing coat of pva I tinkered with some ideas of representing a parachute drop. I took inspiration from Wargames Research Group Platoon Action rules of many moons ago-

I used their paper dropping idea then improvised some other rules- ( apologies for typo in photo,it should have read game not cane)

And that’s where we are so far.Next I want to look at dicing for the arrival of a Homeguard patrol on the table and rules for them spotting the enemy. As ever your ideas are most welcome. 

The battle commences.

 I have started the WW2 game and here is what has happened so far...

Breakfast biscuit buildings built.

Finished the buildings yesterday-

On the painting table...

A Portable Wargame

Inspired by David in Suffolk and his blog yesterday I brought forth the 20mm figures and set up a game. I had felt really off my game hobbywise last week but am really looking forward to fighting this little set up. I will play it over the next day or so and post battle reports. As ever click on photos to see them bigger and please do ask any questions you have re figures or terrain.

Now a little closer look...