At Classic Wargamer, my mission is to explore simpler, more accessible ways to enjoy wargaming without losing the depth and excitement that make it such a fantastic hobby. Today, I’d like to recommend two incredible blogs that have inspired me on this journey: Balagan and Wargaming Miscellany. Each offers a unique perspective on the hobby, and both are invaluable resources for wargamers.

Balagan: Historical Depth with a Practical Touch

Balagan, created by Steven Thomas, is a treasure trove for fans of historical wargaming. The blog focuses on rules, scenarios, and historical battle analysis, always with a practical edge. It’s perfect for anyone looking to tweak existing rulesets or experiment with simplified variants while staying true to the historical context.

What I love most about Balagan is its ability to make even complex topics feel approachable. Steven shares homebrew rules, adaptations for systems like DBA or Crossfire, and valuable tips for balancing realism and playability. If you’ve ever wanted to dive into historical wargaming without feeling overwhelmed, this blog is a fantastic starting point.

Wargaming Miscellany: Exploring the Hobby’s Breadth

Wargaming Miscellany, written by Bob Cordery, is a wonderfully versatile blog that covers everything from modeling projects to rule design and miniatures. It’s a broad exploration of the hobby, touching on both historical and fictional wargaming.

Bob has a gift for conveying his enthusiasm and creativity. Some of my favorite posts include his “do-it-yourself” projects, where he shares ideas for building terrain or adapting classic game systems. His thoughtful reflections on trends in the hobby also offer plenty of food for thought.

Why These Blogs Are Essential for Simplifying Wargaming

What makes these blogs especially useful for wargamers like us who aim to simplify is their focus on creativity and flexibility. Whether you’re looking to streamline rules or design accessible scenarios, Balagan and Wargaming Miscellany prove that wargaming doesn’t need to be overly complicated to be enjoyable and meaningful.

If you’re searching for inspiration to make your games more fluid and fun, I highly recommend checking them out. You’re bound to find ideas that help you rediscover wargaming from a fresh perspective.

Do you already follow these blogs?