TAOW posts

Master of Destiny

In our last look at Frederick the Great, Thumbs and Malark examine the concluding remarks of this great mind. Frederick lays out, in no uncertain terms, the opportunities and advantages that you want to be present when you go to battle. Likewise, there are many misfortunes that can befall you in war, and even the most accomplished commanders need to be wary of them. All this and more as we make the best of our downtime.

The Importance of Where

When it comes to playing the field, nothing matters more than location. The saturation and type of terrain affects the performance of both large and small armies. This week, join Thumbs and Malark as they look into the Importance of Where.

Tyler RuizAugust 2, 2020wargaming, foam fighting, warhammer 40k, the art of war, the art of wargaming, Frederick the GreatComment

Surprise and Prevention

It has been said that the key to victory is surprise. The aim is to catch your enemy in an unfavorable. It isn't always the case that we get the jump on our foe. Occasionally, we are forced into a fixed defensive position. In this week's episode, Thumbs and Malark explore the tactics required for a successful attack on a fixed position as well as what to do if you find yourself on the defense.

Danger Zone

Amidst the push and pull of battle, there is still purpose. Objectives must be held, key points taken, and enemy forces put to rout. Between all this, the invisible yet undeniable tide of war flows, crushing some and carrying others away. Here, in the clash of wills and blades meeting from across No Man's Land, we find the Danger Zone.

Talents, Ruses, and Strategems

There are many qualities required of a general if they are to be successful in their command. They must not only know how to use their army in force, but must also be able to use subtlety and cunning to carry the day. By examining Frederick's words, we can use them to seek out the best qualities in ourselves and use them to benefit our community and team.

Coup D'Oeil

When both knowledge and experience become intuitive, and when with a glance one can take a comprehensive view, we call this Coup D'Oeil. Join TAOW as we explore this concept and learn how to use it to exploit the battlefield and pursue the essential.

Where The Heart Is

TAOW takes a look at the methodical approach to logistics used by Frederick the Great. Using his ideas to movement, we can maximize our potential.

A Clear Vision (Frederick)

In our first dive into the mind of Frederick the Great, we talk about having a clear vision in battle. Planning and contingency planning are important aspects of wargaming. Frederick proves to have prudent advice on the subject, tune in to learn more!

Frederick Transition

Before we begin our new book, we take a look at the world that shaped our author. Join us as we do a brief exploration of the Holy Roman Empire, Prussia, and the life of Frederick the Great.

Of Rath and Brotherhood

We take a break from hard military science to discuss a realm and a unit who have proven pivotal to their areas in the foam fighting community. Whether it's producing quality fighters or holding up the spirit of volunteerism, a good working model can be found in Rath and Brotherhood

TAOW podcastTyler RuizApril 12, 2020wargaming, foam fighting, warhammer 40k, the art of war, the art of wargaming, Star TrekComment

Part Seven Machiavelli

We finish out Machiavelli talking about siege, how to conduct one and how to survive one. For our report this week, something a little different, inspired by one of our listeners!

TAOW podcastTyler RuizMarch 22, 2020wargaming, foam fighting, warhammer 40k, the art of war, the art of wargaming, MachiavelliComment

Part Six Machiavelli

We continue our discussion of an orderly and efficient camp and transition into head games as only Machiavelli could provide. Our first time being able to have three people on air as Oni returns!

TAOW podcastTyler RuizMarch 15, 2020wargaming, foam fighting, warhammer 40k, the art of war, the art of wargaming, MachiavelliComment

Part Five Machiavelli

When an army is on the march, there are many considerations. This week we explore one of the least flashy but most crucial of factors: that of the camp itself!

TAOW podcastTyler RuizMarch 8, 2020wargaming, foam fighting, warhammer 40k, the art of war, the art of wargaming, MachiavelliComment

Part Four Machiavelli

This week on The Art of Wargaming we take a look at how to use an army practically and the considerations a captain should have before and during a battle.

TAOW podcastTyler RuizMarch 2, 2020wargaming, foam fighting, warhammer 40k, the art of war, the art of wargaming, MachiavelliComment

Part Three Machiavelli

Machiavelli continues to refine his concept of mixed units and deployment as only he can. Artillery also gets a highlight in this episode as we discuss how best to deploy it and defend against it.