18 March 2012

History of Wargaming Videos

I have previously mentioned John Curry's History of Wargaming Project, mostly in reference to Fletcher Pratt's Naval Wargame (FPNW). I just discovered a series of YouTube videos from John Curry, and I am working my way through them. This will be a brief review, and maybe serve as a launch point for your own exploration.
--- More after the fold. ---


History of Wargaming Project, part 1

John Curry discusses the beginning of the History of Wargaming project, and tells the story of how he recovered the materials for Fletcher Pratt's Naval Wargame. Also a bit about Jim Dunnigan (1,2), and SPI's Firefight. His style is a bit rambling, but he seems to have done good research. Lot of interesting stories here.

History of Wargaming Project, part 2

John Curry discussed wargaming history, and wargaming present.


Fletcher Pratt's Naval Wargame, part 1/5

John Curry giving a presentation on FPNW. At 2:20s there is mention of Jim Dunnigan, which is a connection between FPNW and modern games that Ihave been looking for.

Fletcher Pratt's Naval Wargame, part 2/5

The story of the hunt for FPNW, the people involved, lost rules rediscovered,

Fletcher Pratt's Naval Wargame, part 3/5

Decline of interest following World War II. FPNW for simulation and training at US Naval War College..

Fletcher Pratt's Naval Wargame, part 4/5

Strategic aspects. Formula for ship value. The deterministic model.

Fletcher Pratt's Naval Wargame, part 5/5

The multiplayer game. Fred Jane's and Fletcher Pratt's games as used for training.  Question and answer.


Wargaming and gaming in general are just beginning to receive attention as a topic of serious study. For most of us it's just a hobby - a way to pass some time. It's easy to think that our favorite games are new and innovative, but there really is a lot that has gone before. I'm glad there are people making the effort to preserve this history.

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