For a much larger, but unannotated, bibliography, click here

An Annotated Wargaming Bibliography

Books

The Art of Wargaming, Dr. Peter P. Perla, Naval Institute Press, 1990

I know this sounds coney, but if you will read only one book on wargaming this should be the one.  As you might guess from the copyright date it is a bit dated.  It also covers the naval and analysis segments of the field in more depth then other elements. Not surprising as the author is a naval analyst.  Still, it is an exceptionally valuable book.  Easy to understand by someone un-aquatinted with wargaming yet rich enough in fresh insights to hold the attention of a 20 year veteran of wargaming.  Best of all Dr. Perla is neither a booster nor a critic of wargame, his book lays out with candor and clarity his views on wargaming’s capabilities and limitations. 

The Bomb And The Computer, Andrew Wilson, Delacorte Press, 1968

The first book to provide a history of wargaming and a then contemporary overview of the field.  A fast read, it contains information not available elsewhere.

Simulating War, Philip Sabin, Continuum, 2012

This important book provides a good overview of wargaming but its main thrust is the advocacy and wargaming as a educational tool. Professor Sabin provides a convincing case not only for the use of wargames as an educational tool but for the educational value inherent in designing wargames as well.  Perhaps most importantly he also provides clear, practical advice on how to do both.

If you believe we should add an item to this annotated bibliography, or modify any of our current material please E-mail me using the “Email Me” button located below and to the right.