Why I Enjoy Tabletop Miniature Wargaming (Editorial)

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Do you enjoy playing tabletop wargames? I have a personal take on why I love playing these miniature battles. One of the goals of this site is to help the community grow. A challenge, of course, is that not everyone understands why people like playing tabletop wargames. So, in the following article, I’ll attempt to explain my love for the hobby.


Introduction: Where My Tabletop Gaming Hobby Started

I grew up playing video games. I loved going to arcades and playing the latest and greatest games. But, as I got older, I found that something was missing. I realized that I didn’t just want to watch my characters on a screen; I wanted to control them. That’s when I found tabletop gaming.

Tabletop gaming is a hobby that has been around for centuries (see more about miniature wargaming history). It involves players using miniatures, or small figures, to represent their characters in a game. Players move their miniatures around a board or tabletop battlefield, using dice to determine the results of their actions.

At first sight of those miniature worlds in action, I was immediately hooked. I loved the idea of “being in control” of something tangible, things you can touch and interact with.

The fact that my brain would naturally gravitate to seeing things move about in real life (though proxied by these scale model objects) was engaging beyond description–I still struggle to describe the experience here!

Suffice it to say, tabletop gaming became my new favorite hobby!

RELATED: TOP 20 POPULAR TABLETOP WARGAMES WITH MINIATURES


Why Do I Play Miniature Tabletop Games?

Let’s get to why I love playing miniatures tabletop wargames. It’s not just about the games themselves. There are 10 reasons why I really enjoy tabletop wargaming:

1. The social aspect

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I’ve made some great friends through playing tabletop wargames, and I really enjoy getting together with them to play. It’s a fun way to spend an evening or weekend.

2. The modeling and painting aspect

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I really enjoy the process of assembling and painting miniatures. It’s a bit like a puzzle, and I find it to be very relaxing. A huge part of Tangible Day is dedicated to the art of painting miniatures.

3. The strategy and problem-solving aspects

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I love trying to figure out the best way to win a game, and then implementing that plan. I also enjoy solving problems that come up during a game. Are you into tactical games? Miniature tabletop wargames are perfectly suited to your tactical mindset. You can even use what you learn in the gaming world in real life situations!

4. The tactile experience

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I enjoy the feel of miniatures and terrain on the tabletop, and the sound they make when moving around. Touching models and physically moving them about is a very satisfying experience.

5. The “cinematic” aspect

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I love how tabletop wargames can look like a movie or TV show. With the right terrain and miniatures, you can create some really amazing scenes. This is one of the things that drew me to the hobby in the first place.

6. The sense of accomplishment

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I love the feeling of completing a project, such as assembling and painting a miniature, or winning a game. It’s a great feeling of accomplishment.

7. The challenge and need for discovery

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I enjoy the challenge of playing a difficult game, or trying to figure out how to win a game. Tabletop wargaming can be quite challenging at times and you have to stay on your feet to succeed. There’s always something new to discover in the world of tabletop wargaming.

8. The immersion

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I love getting lost in a game, and feeling like I’m part of the action. Tabletop wargaming can do that quite well. There’s a narrative, or backstory, built into a well-designed wargame. If you like getting lost in a good book, a good miniature tabletop game can evoke a similar experience.

9. The variety

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I love the variety that tabletop wargaming offers. There are so many different games to choose from, and each one is unique. I can’t even begin to list all of the different types of games out there. Here’s a select few of the most popular games out there. You’re sure to find one that suits your taste.

10. The fun

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Plain and simple, tabletop wargaming is just plain fun. Fun, dangit! How do you describe fun? Well, I’ve tried to describe the fun of painting miniatures, and it wasn’t so easy. But, I suppose the miniature wargames themselves are similar in that positive experience. Gaming is enjoyable.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ): Miniature Hobby Tabletop Gaming

What is tabletop wargaming?

Tabletop wargaming is a strategic game in which players use miniature figures to represent military units, and move them around on a scaled model of a battlefield. The object of the game is usually to achieve some objective, such as capturing a flag or city, or defeating all of the enemy’s forces.

Is tabletop wargaming popular?

Yes, tabletop wargaming is quite popular. There are many different types of tabletop wargames, and new ones are being created all the time. There are also numerous tournaments and events held around the world each year.

How hard is it to play a tabletop wargame with miniatures?

It can be as simple or as complex as you want it to be. There are many differentrule sets available, ranging from very simple to very complex. You can also find wargames that use different kinds of miniatures, such as plastic, metal, or resin.

Is it expensive to play a tabletop wargame?

No, it does not have to be expensive. You can find tabletop wargames that use different kinds of miniatures, and there are many ways to save money on the hobby.

Why do people play tabletop wargames?

People enjoy tabletop wargaming for many different reasons. Some people enjoy the challenge of trying to outwit their opponents, while others simply enjoy the camaraderie and social aspects of the hobby. Whatever the reason, tabletop wargaming is a great way to spend time with friends and family.

What are some good tabletop wargames?

There are many different types of tabletop wargames, so it really depends on what you are looking for. Some popular wargames include Warhammer 40,000, Flames of War, and Infinity. There are also many smaller scale wargames that can be played with less expensive miniatures.

Can I play a tabletop wargame online?

Yes, there are many ways to play tabletop wargames online. There are even some websites that allow you to create and manage your own virtual tabletop wargame.

Do I need to paint my gaming miniatures?

No, you don’t need to paint your miniatures, but it can be a fun way to customize your army. If you are not interested in painting, there are many pre-painted miniatures available. Or, you can hire a professional minature painter to paint your model army collection for you. Here are some tips for finding the right commission miniature painter for your next project.

Are there any other tips for playing tabletop wargames?

Here are a few tips to help you get started in the hobby:

  • Start small and simple- There are many different types of tabletop wargames, so it’s important to find one that is right for you. Don’t try to tackle a complicated game right away. Start with something small and simple, and then work your way up.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for help- The community of tabletop wargamers is very friendly and helpful. If you need help, don’t be afraid to ask a fellow gamer or search online for answers.
  • Join a club or group- Joining a club or group is a great way to meet other gamers and learn more about the hobby. There are many different types of clubs and groups, so you should be able to find one that is right for you.
  • Attend a convention- Attending a convention is a great way to meet other gamers, see new games, and buy miniatures and supplies. Conventions are also a great place to learn more about the hobby.
  • Have fun- Remember, tabletop wargaming is supposed to be fun. If you’re not having fun, then something is probably wrong. Try a different game or approach, and don’t be afraid to experiment.
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How do I start playing tabletop wargames?

If you’re interested in playing tabletop wargames, the best way to start is by finding a game that is right for you. There are many different types of tabletop wargames, so it’s important to find one that is right for you. Once you’ve found a game that interests you, the best way to learn how to play is by joining up with a friend or group and learn the game together.


Conclusion

And, there you have it! I love the miniature wargaming hobby because it is a great way to spend time with friends and family. It’s also a very social hobby, as you can meet new people who share your interest in it. I’ve made many friends through my miniature wargaming hobby.

Of course, there’s more to love, too! The gameplay depth, the miniature painting activity, and seeing the models arrayed on a scale battlefield is a mind-jolting, nostalgic experience.

I highly recommend giving it a try. Who knows, you might enjoy it as much as I do!

Until next time, happy gaming!

Do you play any particular games? Maybe you’re into the “wargaming cousins” like TTRPGs, such as Dungeons and Dragons, or board games? I’d love to know what draws you to a particular style of game. Leave a comment below!

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