Simulating War

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.

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

Auteur

Philip Sabin is Professor of Strategic Studies in the Department of War Studies at King's College, London. He has worked closely with the armed services and appears regularly on TV and radio. He has also co-edited the two volume Cambridge History of Greek and Roman Warfare.

Contenu
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