CWF Game Cast Episode 58: Henry Hyde and Battlegames Magazine

Host Jonathan J. Reinhart and guest Henry Hyde, editor of Battlegames Magazine, discuss a myriad of topics. Jonathan gets Henry to reveal some of his background, musical talent, and an explanation on why Battlegames Magazine stands out. The short answer is, “words.” This gargantuan episode clocks in at over 2 hours and 24 minutes making it one of the longest episodes for our show. You definitely will enjoy it.

Henry devotes a chunk of his appearance to the Society for Creative Anachronism, the Landsknecht, and the Pennsic Wars (check out this Youtube video of Pennsic Wars #1). Jonathan chimes in with Live Action Roleplaying and the Tales of Valor. Henry sets the stage for the rest of the show when he reveals his condensed curruclum vitae. Who knew Henry gave up a lucrative career in insurance to become the editor and owner of Battlegames?

Jonathan inquires why listeners to buy and read Battlegames Magazine instead of the plethora of other gaming magazines. Henry responds with “words.” Jonathan prompts him to extrapolate on that resulting in the history of Henry’s magazine and philosophy of magazines. The pair move the chat onto transitioning into historical gaming using Jonathan as an example. Key topics area highlighted that every gamer must address when becoming a historical wargamer. Size, manufacturer, price, storage, and pre-game prep (painting/assembly) all must be considered. This opens the door for a discussion of paint brushes. Do you go with expensive brushes or something cheap and replaceable?

Henry then discusses his fitness undertaking as part of the Battlegames Combat Stress Appeal. A very important focus is placed on the Combat Stress charity, what they do, and how you can help. If you’re able, please make a donation using the Combat Stress JustGiving page.

The table turns as Henry fires off a few questions at Jonathan who explains how he got into gaming and how he got into historical gaming. He says why he gave up playing Warhammer 40k and Warhammer Fantasy. Jonathan moves the topic onto Henry’s upcoming book, The Wargaming Compendium, available for pre-order on Amazon UK with a price of 16.25 GBP.

The discussion ends with Henry telling listeners how to find the magazine, contact him, read his blog, follow him on Twitter, and visit his Facebook page.

The show winds down with the the Music to Game By segment with Bailey Records’ “Dogs of War” from Stratos’ album Cybernet Official Roleplaying Soundtrack and the new Battlegames Magazine promo.

As always we conclude with a message from our sponsor, 12-7-Games.com, contest sponsor Battlegames Magazine, our Creative Commons license and contact information (find us on Facebook and Twitter).

We hope you enjoy this episode of the CWF Game Cast and are eager for your feedback (both positive remarks and constructive criticism). Send it all to cwfgamecast at wargamingforums dot com. Find us on Facebook, Twitter, or Xbox Live with gamertag cwfgamecast.

Our intro song is “Downtown” by Matthew Ebel. Please give his other music a listen at www.matthewebel.com.