For the first time since 2019, I was once again at CRISIS, the biggest wargaming convention in Belgium. We all know what happened during the years starting in 2020 (yes, Covid!), and as a result, CRISIS in Antwerp grinded to a halt. It was only last year in 2024 that CRISIS was revived in a smaller format (partly due to Brexit), and at a different location. I couldn't attend last year, but this year, I was once again able to go, helping out my friend Wim in running an Ancients battle - Galateans vs Macedonians using the To The Strongest rules.
Since CRISIS is now held in Sint-Niklaas, only 20 minute away from where I live with a direct train connection, it was also the first time I went to CRISIS taking the train. Easy enough, and I didn't have to worry about finding a parking spot.
The event was the usual mix of clubs setting up games, and traders hawking their wares. The British traders are still missed (Brexit, you know ... ) but a veteran Belgian wargamer told me this could be a good thing! In his opinion, the dominance of British traders over the years meant we as wargamers from the mainland have been fed British military history for too long. Why should we care about the English Civil War, or be obsessed over Pegasus Bridge or Arnhem? Why not focus more on other battles and conflicts, which have been underrepresented in wargaming? I must say I do not entirely follow this argument, but there's something of a truth hidden there.
Anyway, I had a good time ... talking to a lot of fellow wargamers, seeing old friends again, feeling part of the wargaming community at large ... that's what it's all about!
Anyway, here are the photos, in no particular order ...
(Edit: sorry, I didn't take notes which game is what, so you must deduce it yourself ;-) )
Our own game, Macedonians vs Galatians, using To The Strongest:
Some pictures from when the doors weren't open yet, so not too many people around:
An impressive set of games there Phil.
ReplyDeleteThank you for posting the photos.
It looks like a great space as it did not seem to crowded.
I sort of agree with the thoughts regarding the over influence of the British battles. I am sure there is plenty of interesting history that does not include them đŸ˜‚ (despite what they think)
Belgian military history. Fighting on the wrong side mostly in the Napoleonic Wars. Getting invaded and getting bailed out by Britain. Er the Belgian Congo…. Simon
ReplyDeleteDo not forget the two Belgian Waffen SS Legions, Mike
DeleteNice pics Phil. Hopefully I can be healthy enough to make it next year!
ReplyDeleteWho won? The Galatens or the Macedonians?
ReplyDeleteThe Galatians were at the point of breaking through at their right flank when we had to start packing. There was still a small chance of the Macedonian cavalry riding through the Galatian chariots, but there do were a lot of chariots. So I guess the Galatians...
DeleteIt was a good show, thanks for the help Phil!
ReplyDeleteI also think traders had a busy time there, seeing people running around with large boxes and trolley cars.