The Art of Wargaming

Morale is vital to any conflict, but it also plays a part heavily in our own lives. Whether making our way through our workday, tending to our personal relationships, or playing our favorite wargame, pursuing higher morale can contribute to our happiness and abilities. In this episode, Malark dives deep into the concept of morale. Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

Many elements go into an offensive strategy. There are the issues of lengthening our supply lines, the capitalization of momentum while maintaining economy of force, and the precision and timing that allow us to prevail over our defensive opponent. Time is not a friend to the attacker, so our actions need to be swift and decisive. When seeking our military aims, we will often come up against an enemy army. While destruction of the enemy army may not be the primary goal, we must still be prepared to deal with such resistance. In this episode, Malark takes a close look at how Clausewitz prepares us to conduct an offensive battle. Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

Clausewitz begins our study of offensive warfare by establishing a framework. In this we can see how the lessons we learned in previous episodes on defense can also apply to our study going forward. As always, Clausewitz provides us with concise lists of considerations, including how to preserve our force while we achieve our objectives. Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

For the last many episodes we have been making our way through Clausewitz's lessons concerning defense. It has been a comprehensive study, looking at all levels of action when it comes to defensive warfare, from such diverse topics as favorable terrain to understanding the momentum and rhythm of battle. In this episode, we bring all of these concepts together and look at the big picture, on how they mesh together into strategies that are effective and efficient. Join Malark as we close out our study of strategic defense when we see it actively in the Defense of a Theatre Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

It isn't glamorous to consider, but sometimes in war a tactical withdrawal is called for. These must be planned and orderly, guarding against our enemy who will surely try to take advantage. There are several reasons this might be a reasonable move. If we can get a better advantage over our opponent on different ground, if our supply lines are threatened, if we need to regroup and wait for reinforcements; these are some of the valid reasons for this consideration. Join Malark to examine how best to reposition our army by using a Retreat to the Interior. Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

The wars during the time of Clausewitz were set by conventions that sometimes seem strange to us in modern wargaming. One of the general prohibitions during that era, if I may include a spoiler, was that flanking was not a useful tactic. This is obviously not the case in modern war and wargaming, but the advice he does include is cautiously insightful. Malark delves into the deeps of this maneuver to bring back the pearls of wisdom relating to the methods of Defensive Flanking Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

In a perfect homage to our ongoing study of Clausewitz, Malark hosted a panel at MisCon 38 in 2024 on the "Principles of War and their Applications towards Game Theory". This is the raw recording largely without edits. Enjoy Malark live and unfiltered at MisCon 38 and his exploration of the Principles of War(gaming)! Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

Of the many concepts that we have covered over the course of this show, few are as ephemeral as the idea of coup d'œil. The ability to see at a glance what opportunities are afforded by our situation is a great boon, whether it is a talent we come by naturally or have had to train in ourselves. A bit more accessible concept would be that of zone defense, a strategy that many who watch or play sports will already be familiar with. This episode shows us how these two concepts are related to one another when campaigning. Join Malark as we see how to approach our enemy with the most advantage from our positioning as possible, marrying together the ideas of the cordon and the key. Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

The fighting fields of Europe offer a plethora of situations and biomes to analyze. It is from this analysis that we are able to make our theories concerning war. While Clausewitz was able to draw upon this rich information for his own theories, the lack of certain conditions in Europe caused gaps in tactical knowledge. As he himself explains, one is hard pressed to find large theaters of European conflict that is dominated by operations in deep heavy forests and swamps. While these extreme biomes do exist in Europe, they are few and often not the focus of campaigns. We then need to fill in the gaps with our analysis of other conflicts, such as the US involvement in the Pacific Campaign of WWII and the Vietnam War. Join Malark as he strives to do just that in this episode on the defense of forests and swamps. Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

Rivers present a unique challenge when it comes to the prosecutions of a campaign. Much like mountains, they have their own rules and ways of navigating them. This is a very exact science because choosing the right method of defense can be quite hazardous and requires a practiced mind. In this episode, Malark plunges deep into the unexpectedly complex concept in the Defense of Rivers. Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

Our "short" break from Clausewitz to study Napoleon is now over! We return to our deep dive into Clausewitz's great work: On War. In this episode, Malark does a quick recap of the information we were discussing before our Napoleonic tangent. Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

Over the course of this study, we have sought the heart of strategy that lies in the works of one of history's most prolific figures: the commander and statesman Napoleon. His wisdom reaches from across the centuries, the boldness and decisiveness of which are as useful today as they were when first penned to the page. This is not to say that all of his tactical advice is still entirely sound, as technology has accelerated massively since he last walked the earth. Naval battles, for instance, are no longer fought entirely within easy sight, but also by carriers beyond the horizon and submarines beneath it. Yet, despite discrepancies like this, many of his ruminations still hold true. Sit down with Malark as we work through our last installment of the Napoleonic Maxims. Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

There are many realities about war that are understandably upsetting. This episode contains several such realities, such as the long term consequences of landmines and the brutal practice of taking hostages. And while concepts like this may not have direct application to many forms of wargaming, it is still important to understand them within the context of actual war. Napoleon discusses these concepts in his own time and they remain relevant to us in this age. To contrast some of these dark topics, Desi and Zuloo join us from the East of Belegarth to chat about their meta and recent developments Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

How do we best use our troops? How do we prioritize our actions based on our capabilities? These have been questions on the minds of commanders throughout history. Napoleon, as always, has some good advice for us on the matter. Malark explores these questions and more as we break back into Napoleon and have a game with one of our favorites opponents: Todo Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

When we look at leadership, it is easy to see that there are many functions that require their own sort of leader. A general of engineering is expected to have vastly different qualities than a general of the cavalry. Often when we study military science we do so from the perspective of the General of the Army, but this same general trusts in the competence of the officers who are placed in these more specific functions, because even the most competent of commanders need to delegate. Malark seeks insight on this topic within the next set of Napoleonic Maxims. Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

Malark and Todo sit down to a game of 10th edition Warhammer 40k Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

These maxims reveal an unexpected treasure trove of military wisdom. The vast genius of Napoleon is reflected in his mind, not just in tactical mastery but also a mastery of command and control. Malark continues our study Napoleon and his maxims. Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

Napoleon's direct approach to war also features in his maxims, where he often trades detail for brevity. One of the topics he writes most on is that of qualities necessary for command. In this episode, Malark walks alongside Napoleon as he describes the qualities of an ideal commander Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

As we begin the homestretch of our study of Napoleon's Maxims, we begin to see more and more evidence of Napoleon's psyche expressed in his written ideas on military science. It becomes easy to see why he would call himself an emperor and have the bravado to engage the majority of Europe in open conflict. Malark continues our study of this fascinating mind. Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

Even within seemingly simple maxims there can be a treasure trove of information and insight. Malark examines several short but valuable Maxims in this next installment of the Military Maxims of Napoleon Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

The task of the scholar is a complicated one. Not only must one read and understand what is being read, in addition it is vital to place the information in a cultural and historic context. Nothing is written in a vacuum, and as we know the historic setting is important to true understanding. With this in mind, we sit down with the next set of Maxims, and see what wisdom history can yield. Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

Deviating from his characteristic brevity, Napoleon spends this next chunk of his Maxims discussing the theory and techniques behind siege warfare. Without the use of a handy whiteboard, Malark seeks to convey the details of this mathematic and intricate art of war. Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

Continuing right along with our study of the Maxims, Malark pulls up a mic to chat about the next installment of Napoleon's battle wisdom Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

Continue with us as we continue to unlock the wisdom of Napoleon through his maxims. Direct and concise, Napoleon simplifies the art of war into easily digested sections, very much different than the hyper detailed approach of Clausewitz. Malark treks on throught the next set of Napoleonic Maxims Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

As a contemporary of Clausewitz, Napoleon provides a unique perspective on the wars they fought together. His Maxims have been time honored as solid approaches to war. Malark examines the first twelve of these Maxims to find the wisdom in their words. Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

An event is a tough thing to pull off successfully, and the difficulty increases exponentially the larger the numbers being accounted for. As a event coordinator, there are infinite variables to prepare for, and more that arise once the event is underway. Adaptability in this role is key. When it comes to preparing food for large numbers, there are likewise complications that one doesnt have when only cooking for themselves or small groups. Lastly, we hear the voices of those to whom this is a new experience, whose fresh eyes can show us a perspective that veterans may have long forgotten. Join us in our second series of Battle for the Ring interviews as Malark inspects those operating behind the scenes. Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

The path to becoming a Knight is one of great importance to Belegarth. Those granted this title are expected to serve the community with steadfast diligence, before and after attaining this honor. They are also tasked with raising others to the challenge, preparing the next generation for their faithful service. But how does one get started on this path? What challenges and obstacles can one expect? This series of interviews at Battle for the Ring 2023 seeks to gain answers to these questions. Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

Most of what we study in the art of war concerns wide open spaces. One of the big reasons for this is that many of our authors wrote at a time when open warfare was the expected norm. During the time of Clausewitz, however, the rules were changing rapidly. As technology shaped the newly emerging battlefield, it also brought changes to tactics and strategy. Nowhere is this more evident than in the defense of mountains. Many of the rules are completely different, some counterintuitively, so they deserve their own special. Malark delves into these unique principles that govern the defense of mountains. Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

What are the differences between a defensive and a strong position? The short answer is that one is made to receive the enemy, whereas the other is designed to deny them entirely. This intent shapes the way we want our position to look and function. In either case the advantages sought, like the preservation of the lines of communication, are similar and well defined. Join us as we shore up our defenses by looking at the benefits of defensive and strong positions. Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

Any battle where we are attempting to preserve a point rather than passing through it may be considered a defensive battle. There are advantages to be gained by proper knowledge of terrain and strategic placement of various earthworks and entrenchments. Join us as Malark examines the nature of a defensive battle in the age of Clausewitz and what lessons can be learned from it. Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

For us to mount a successful defense, many things must be in our favor. These means of defense can and should be nurtured before war commences, but after the conflict has begun in earnest, then these means become paramount to victory. Of course, as Clausewitz has said before, no tactical victory can be called positive without offensive action taken to follow up. Through this interplay of forces we can see clear methods of resistance reveal themselves. Malark dishes up some strategy while we examine the methods of resistance. Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

The principles of offense and defense are similar in tactics and warfare, sharing the same basic objectives. The main difference is that strategy cannot accomplish victory without the tactical successes to back it up. Strategy's take on principles such as advantage of ground and surprise have more to do with setting the stage for the most efficient tactical victory we can achieve. We also continue to explore the superiority of the defense when it comes to natural, but not always guaranteed, advantages. Adam of TFG Radio joins us to discuss his new wargame set in Meso-America, both in gameplay and in fascinating background material. Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

Moving now into the portion of "On War" concerned directly with tactics and military strategy, Clausewitz begins by defining defense within his concept of war. There are many reasons to fight/play defensively, and Clausewitz attests that the defense is the superior of the two when compared to offense. There are many advantages conferred to the defender, like usually having the advantage of terrain. He doesn't argue for absolute defense, of course, but the use of defense as an active state, prepared to switch to offense at a moment's notice. In this way, and others, he claims the defense superior. Do you agree? Learn about these concepts and more as Dymphna and Sir Talon join Malark to examine Clausewitz's ideas on defense and offense. Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

As we have been studying, one of the most important aspects of war or wargaming is practice. We speak of meaningful practice that gives us the best chance to adapt to changing conditions, practice that promotes utmost familiarity with our weapons, army, or team. How we approach the field physically and mentally, with our team or by ourselves, can determine victory before the match even begins. Sir Rem joins Malark to discuss the winning strategy behind division and disposition. Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

When we look at the field, whether in our games or in history, we can see three distinct elements that make up the whole. The long range element, the staying power, and the mobile forces all have roles to play, and those roles relate to each other in complicated ways. The ratio of these three elements changes the tactics that can be employed effectively. Artillery heavy armies conduct war in a much different fashion to cavalry. While infantry can be specially trained to fill one of the other roles, they are better done by those suited to them. Turkeyfeathers joins us to look into the three arms, and how to fill the specialty roles. Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

Battle has many uses, but only one guiding principle: the destruction of the enemy. The whole point of military science is to develop a reliable system by which to achieve victory. But what happens when we attain it? How best can we capitalize on our successes? Clausewitz offers very helpful advice in this section concerning the factors that influence the quality and usefulness of our victory. Once we've won our engagement, there's another crucial step, which is the pursuit. Unless our enemy was defeated, routed, and surrendered, there will be a need for some form of pursuit. Whether we are simply harassing our opponent and keeping them from rest, or trying to fix them for another battle, pursuit is necessary to cement our win. Thumbs joins Malark to discuss the uses of battle and utilizing our victories. Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

No battle can take place unless by mutual consent. By and large, this decision is left up to the defenders. Patience, then, is called for to give us the best chance at victory. A clear vision as well, because while there may be many minor and secondary objectives, there is only one primary objective that must be kept at the forefront of our plans. Our choices in battle lead to one defining and decisive moment. When that moment comes, what do we do with it? How will we know? Knowing the answers to these two questions is vital in our efforts. All of our efforts are directed towards a win, but have we stopped to ponder the effects of victory? Todo once again joins Malark to get into the details of the battle. Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

Going into a battle, we know our priorities. However, much like with our plan itself, it is best that we assume they will change in importance. Preparing for this helps us manage the shifting battlefield conditions. Of course it is best to have our priorities obscured as to move indirectly against our opponent, turning the odds in our favor. Knowing this will help us decide whether we seek a quick conclusion or try to draw our match out. Either way we seek victory, it is important to realize it is not absolute until we pass the crisis-stage. Kaji and Malark chat about seeking decisive results in our wargaming. Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

The first section of this book dealt with the many factors and conditions which can feed into and dictate the course of combat. Now, finally, we begin to delve into the crux of the matter. Understanding the nature of modern war, or "meta" as it is called, is key to effective tactics, which are forever dependent on present forms. The influence of technology on this concept cannot be overstated. Along these lines, a keen observation is required of one's opponent, as they are not a dummy or target practice but a real thinking and ambitious creature with which we must vye. Malark is joined by Todo to discuss the changing of the meta and the combat in general. Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

When it comes to war, all we most often see are the battles. In these dramatic clashes of armies, it is easy to forget all of the contributing factors to that conflict. One of the largest among these is how to maneuver our forces to the right place at the right time with the right plan. For this, we must consider our movements in time and space. Once that force is assembled, it then falls to us to use it effectively. Boldness is often called for, but so too is thinking ahead to the next fight and the strength it might require. Sir Zuloo joins Malark to discuss ways to marshall and apply the use of force. Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

There are many factors that contribute to victory in very real ways. We have discussed how weather, privation, and low morale can wear at an army's fighting spirit. We have examined how culture and training shape the abilities of the forces on the field. But when we look at history as a whole, three main considerations are at play. The consequences from either the favor or disdain of these influences can dictate the outcome of a battle or war. Desi joins Malark to chat about the prerequisites of victory. Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

At every level of command, boldness is required to carry the day. Whether its a frontline soldier summoning the will to take a hill, or a general dedicating themselves to a daring plan, boldness is the most important of the military virtues. With it, we can fight timidity and move in a way that accomplishes our objectives swiftly and effectively. Soren joins Malark to look into the idea of boldness and its place on the field or table top. Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

Those of you on our Instagram will have no doubt seen some of the epic footage from the fight night Malark attended. The energy in the room was electric, the excitement of the crowd was palpable. After the fights, a dear friend of the show arranged for Malark to interview some of the spectacular fighters. These are those interviews. Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

In our first series of field interviews, much was learned about the process and challenges of recording outside of the studio. Some of the first interview with Rizo and Maverick, for instance, was distorted by wind. This is unfortunate, as the interview was very interesting to Malark. We salvaged what we could. The second interview was with long time veteran and experienced tournament winner, Retnuh, and the talented TikTok star and archer Sheye. It was very enjoyable to speak with such involved members of our community. Sheye's TikTok handle is @sheyetarason and is absolutely worth checking out. Our final interview is with Nua of Nua TalkGaming, who is an e-gamer with an admirable mission of positivity in his competitive ambitions. He is a Twitch streamer and you would not be disappointed to tune in. All in all, this episode is about doing what we love and doing it well. Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

Among the Chief Moral Powers discussed in the previous episode, Military Virtue is a trait of both the army and the individual that contributes to a precise and efficient force on the battlefield. Separate from bravery or enthusiasm, it measures more the discipline and spirit. Keeping our cool under pressure, withstanding the disappointment of defeat, knowing our purpose and function within the overall system; these all are part of what it means to have military virtue. Sir Kyrian joins Malark to help us find the heart of what makes this concept so key to victory. Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

There are many conditions which contribute to the conduct of combat. Some of these are related to moral forces, others are on physical forces. Regardless of the cause, we must look at all elements separately to understand the whole. Moral forces, of course, and the most powerful and the quickest to form. With spirit, talent, military virtue, and physics on our side, the conditions of victory might be better assured. Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

Clausewitz defines strategy as the employment of the battle as the means towards the attainment of the object of war. For our games, we obviously do the same, stringing together our isolated wins into one overall victory of the tournament or event. We all understand how to do this because it doesnt take a genius to recognize good tactics or winning plans. The real trick is knowing how to combine all of that together with the necessary minutia, timing, and execution required for it all to work. The concepts are easy, the application less so. Finally, some battles are so influential that they need not be fought. Which is to say, with the right mindset, it is entirely possible to win without a direct fight. Juniper joins Malark to talk about getting things done and putting our strategies into effect. Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

Doctrine in of itself can only get us so far. There are limits to what it can predict, and therefore limited in its usefulness. Criticism offers us a chance to compare doctrine to reality, and make our methods more consistent towards victory. In this, it is important that we not get lost in the details, but cut away that which is irrelevant. In doing so, we may learn from history and the mistakes or triumphs made by great commanders of the past. Reks joins Malark to examine methods of critique and how best to use examples. Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

How do art and science relate to and influence the activity of war? As Clausewitz has stated before, war is an extension of politics. As such, it is governed by the principles and rules of the day, as established on that particular field at that particular moment. From these ideas, we can first begin to craft a solid method. Rocca joins Malark to chat about art, science, and methodology. Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

We finish out this chapter of "On War" with Clausewitz describing how we can turn military science into art. In previous episodes, we've discussed the impossibility of positive theory and the various means at our disposal to achieve victory. We bring that all together in this episode where we talk about the pros and cons of plentiful information. Geniuses aside, any of us can develop pulse-beat knowledge if we practice enough. Jason of Military Miniature Magazine joins Malark to chat about keeping war gaming simple and effective. Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com

Responsibility and awareness differ at varied levels of command. The front line trooper sees more of a limited area than the rear echelon, who themselves see more of the larger picture. Strategy, which consists of its own unique challenges, relies on the results of tactics to determine the means at its disposal. Tink joins the show on this episode to discuss the means of the means, and the recent Belegarth event "Battle for the Ring" Support our Patreon! www.patreon.com/theartofwargaming Email: artofwargamingpodcast@gmail.com Facebook: @theartofwargamingpodcast Instagram: @artofwargamingpodcast Check out more of The Art of Wargaming at www.taowargaming.com Check out more earVVyrm podcasts at www.earvvyrm.com