Miniature wargaming is a form of wargaming in which military units are represented by miniature physical models on a model battlefield. The use of physical models to represent military units is in contrast to other tabletop wargames that use abstract pieces such as counters or blocks, or computer wargames which use virtual models. The primary benefit of using models is aesthetics, though in certain wargames the size and shape of the models can have practical consequences on how the match plays out.
Wargaming miniatures are usually sold in parts, with plastic ones still attached to their sprues. The parts must be cut out and glued together.
The assembly and painting of models is a major aspect of the hobby, as much as the actual game.
Generic models of American GIs, for use in any World War 2 game
Different gaming table surfaces 1: Gaming board with artificial grass 2: Modelled gaming plate 3: Plastic mat with printed grass 4: Mousepad mat with printed gras
A wargame is a strategy game in which two or more players command opposing armed forces in a simulation of an armed conflict. Wargaming may be played for recreation, to train military officers in the art of strategic thinking, or to study the nature of potential conflicts. Many wargames re-create specific historic battles, and can cover either whole wars, or any campaigns, battles, or lower-level engagements within them. Many simulate land combat, but there are wargames for naval and air combat, as well.
A recreational wargame (Here I Stand) in play at CSW Expo 2009
Bolt Action, a miniature wargame set during World War 2
A game of Julius Caesar from Columbia Games shows how a player may only know the strength and unit type of their own forces, creating a fog of war element that does not exist in most tabletop wargames.
The US Navy Electronic Warfare Simulator (1958)
