What Are Wargames?

A Beginner-Friendly Guide to Miniature Wargames in the Netherlands, Belgium and Europe

Wargames are miniature-based tabletop strategy games where players command armies or specialized units and recreate tactical battles using detailed miniatures, terrain and structured rules systems. Unlike traditional board games, miniature wargames focus on strategic movement, positioning, line of sight and scenario-based objectives, offering a deeply immersive gameplay experience.

Across the Netherlands, Belgium and the wider European tabletop community, miniature wargames have grown in popularity among hobbyists looking for a mix of strategic gameplay, creative modelling and narrative storytelling. Whether you are searching for wargames for beginners in the Netherlands or advanced competitive systems in Europe, the world of tabletop wargaming offers something for every skill level.

From small-scale skirmish wargames to large army-based mass battle systems, miniature wargaming combines tactical depth with a rich hobby experience that includes painting, customization and world-building.

Skirmish Wargames: Tactical Miniature Battles with Small Forces

Skirmish wargames are miniature wargames that focus on small units or individual characters rather than full armies. These games are ideal for players looking for fast-paced tabletop wargames, detailed tactics and narrative-driven scenarios. Skirmish systems are often recommended as entry-level wargames for beginners due to their lower model count and shorter playtime.

Popular skirmish miniature wargames available at CCGWinkel include:

Eldfall Chronicles – Skirmish Fantasy Wargame

Eldfall Chronicles is a fantasy skirmish wargame inspired by Eastern mythology and rich narrative lore. Players control small, highly customizable warbands, each with distinct abilities and tactical options. It is an excellent choice for hobbyists looking for a fantasy skirmish wargame in the Netherlands or Belgium that combines strategy with cinematic storytelling.

Quar, Clash of Rhyfles – Narrative Skirmish Wargame

Quar, Clash of Rhyfles is a unique skirmish wargame that blends thoughtful gameplay with a charming, character-driven setting. Featuring detailed miniatures and squad-based combat, it appeals to players seeking a story-focused skirmish wargame in Europe that balances tactical depth with distinctive visual design.

Skirmish wargames are well-suited for:

• Players starting with miniature wargaming

• Home tables and smaller play areas

• Narrative and campaign-based gameplay

• Hobbyists who enjoy painting individual miniatures

• Shorter, tactical game sessions

Mass Battle Wargames: Large-Scale Tabletop Combat

Mass battle wargames focus on commanding full armies across extensive battlefields. These systems emphasize long-term strategy, positioning and resource management, offering a grand-scale experience for players who enjoy building and leading large forces.

Warmachine – A Competitive Mass Battle Wargame

Warmachine is a well-known mass battle wargame that features powerful warcasters, mechanized armies and highly tactical gameplay. It is popular among players looking for a competitive miniature wargame in the Netherlands and Belgium, as well as those seeking structured, tournament-ready gameplay across the European scene.

Mass battle wargames appeal to hobbyists who:

• Enjoy commanding large armies

• Prefer longer, strategic tabletop battles

• Seek competitive miniature wargaming systems

• Want deep tactical and positional gameplay

Why Miniature Wargames Are Popular in the Netherlands, Belgium and Europe

Miniature wargames continue to grow across the Netherlands, Belgium and Europe due to their unique combination of strategy, creativity and social interaction. Players enjoy not only the challenge of tactical gameplay but also the artistic side of the hobby, including assembling, converting and painting miniatures.

For many hobbyists, tabletop wargaming becomes a long-term passion that evolves from casual play into campaign-driven storytelling or competitive organized play. The diversity of available wargame systems allows players to explore historical, fantasy and science fiction settings while developing their own personal armies.

Choosing the Right Wargame for Your Playstyle

At CCGWinkel, we help hobbyists find the right miniature wargame for their experience level and playstyle. Whether you are searching for wargames for beginners in the Netherlands, skirmish miniature games in Belgium, or mass battle tabletop wargames in Europe, our selection supports every step of your hobby journey.

From accessible skirmish systems like Eldfall Chronicles and Quar, Clash of Rhyfles to full-scale battle systems such as Warmachine, miniature wargaming offers a rich and rewarding tabletop experience for players across the Netherlands, Belgium and the wider European market.

FAQ – Wargames Explained for Beginners and Hobbyists

What are wargames for beginners?

Wargames for beginners are tabletop miniature games that use smaller armies, simpler rules and shorter playtimes to help new players understand the basics of movement, strategy and combat. Skirmish wargames such as Eldfall Chronicles and Quar, Clash of Rhyfles are often recommended as accessible entry points into miniature wargaming.

What is the difference between skirmish and mass battle wargames?

Skirmish wargames focus on small forces and individual characters, usually involving fewer miniatures and faster gameplay. Mass battle wargames, such as Warmachine, center around commanding large armies across bigger battlefields with a stronger emphasis on long-term strategy and positioning.

Are miniature wargames expensive to start?

Miniature wargames can be started at different budget levels. Skirmish games are often more affordable, as they require fewer miniatures and accessories. This makes them a popular choice for players who want to begin wargaming in the Netherlands or Belgium without a large initial investment.

Do I need to paint miniatures to play wargames?

Painting miniatures is not required to play wargames, but many players enjoy it as part of the hobby. Painting adds a creative and personal element to tabletop gaming and enhances the visual experience during play, but unpainted miniatures are perfectly acceptable for beginners.

How many miniatures do I need for a skirmish wargame?

Most skirmish wargames use between 5 and 15 miniatures per side, depending on the ruleset. This makes skirmish systems ideal for players who want to start miniature wargaming with a manageable number of models.

Are wargames suitable for casual players?

Yes, wargames can be enjoyed by both casual and competitive players. Many systems offer flexible rules and narrative scenarios that allow players to tailor the experience to their preferred playstyle, whether relaxed or strategically intense.

Where can I buy wargames in the Netherlands and Belgium?

Wargames can be purchased from specialist tabletop stores such as CCGWinkel, which offers a wide range of skirmish and mass battle wargames with reliable shipping to the Netherlands, Belgium and across Europe.