A wargame is a game that simulates or represents a
military operation. Wargaming is the
hobby dedicated to the play of such games, which are also called conflict simulations. The somewhat similar, professional study of war is generally known as a
military exercise or "war game," with the words war and game kept separate. Although there are occasional disagreements as to what qualifies as a wargame, the general consensus is that they are not only games about conflict or
warfare, but that they must realistically
simulate war to some degree. Depending on the style and scale of the game, such factors as flanking, supply, line of sight, terrain, and morale must be considered. For these reasons, games like
chess and
Risk are not generally considered wargames. Most wargames are
historical or
contemporary in nature, but
science fiction and
fantasy themes are also represented.
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