What is a Block Wargame Anyway?

So what exactly is a block wargame? Here’s a pretty good definition courtesy of BoardGameGeek:

“A style of wargame where the units are wooden blocks with their identities shown on one side of the block and only visible to their owner. This promotes “fog of war” as the identities/strength of each unit is concealed. Typically, blocks are also rotated to show their current strength on the top edge allowing an elegant method of “step losses.” Columbia Games publishes most of their wargames as block games–though other companies are starting to produce them. Well-known block wargames are Napoleon, Hammer of the Scots, East Front (and its expansions).”

A key component, or game mechanic, found in block wargames is what’s known as fog of war, or the “not knowing” of what lies on the other side of the hill. Just how powerful and numerous is your foe as you engage them in battle?

In his classic nineteenth century military treatise Vom Kriege (On War), Carl von Clausewitz noted: 

“War is the realm of uncertainty; three quarters of the factors on which action in war is based are wrapped in a fog of greater or lesser uncertainty. A sensitive and discriminating judgment is called for; a skilled intelligence to scent out the truth.” 

Block wargames are also terrific history. The textbook is brought to life on detailed maps which often feature terrain effects influencing movement and strategy throughout the campaign. Literally, hobby meets history when the game makes it to your table for play.