Over the past fifty years, many thousands of conflict simulations have been published that bring the dynamics of past and possible future wars to life. In this book, Philip Sabin explores the theory and practice of conflict simulation as a topic in its own right, based on his thirty years of experience in designing wargames and using them in teaching. sets conflict simulation in its proper context alongside more familiar techniques such as game theory and operational analysis. It explains in detail the analytical and modelling techniques involved, and it teaches you how to design your own simulations of conflicts of your choice. The book provides eight simple illustrative simulations of specific historical conflicts, complete with rules, maps and counters. Simulating War is essential reading for all recreational or professional simulation gamers, and for anyone who is interested in modelling war, from teachers and students to military officers.>

Simulating War deserves to be widely read, not only by hobbyists, but also by game designers, other wargame professionals, military historians, and others called upon to teach about warfare and conflict (whether in university, military, or other professional settings)... I, for one, would heartedly recommend [the book] to both grognards and academic colleagues alike.

Vorwort
Explores the theory of conflict simulation as used in contemporary wargames, giving readers the intellectual skills to play and design their own simulations.

Autorentext

Philip Sabin

Inhalt

Introduction
Part I: Theory

1. Modelling War
2. Accuracy vs Simplicity
3. Educational Utility
4. Simulation Research
   Part II: Mechanics
5. Designing the Components
6. Modelling Conflict Dynamcs
7. Modelling Command Dynamics
8. Integration and Testing
   Part III: Examples
9. Ancient Warfare
10. World War Two
11. Tactical Combat
    Conclusion
    Appendix 1: Assembling the Components
    Appendix 2: Finding Published Simulations
    Appendix 3: Basic Mathematics
    Appendix 4: Using Cyberboard
    Appendix 5: Kartenspiel
    Notes
    Bibliography
    Index