Microgame HQ Jump to Microgame Links

A message from Microgames HQ founder Mark Johnson:

Welcome to the Internet home for small format, inexpensive wargames. In 1996 I put together a simple website that attempted to categorize and list all the pocket-sized wargames that were my introduction to this hobby about two decades ago. After languishing for too long, the HQ has undergone a relocation, update and facelift.

What's a microgame?

It's a pretty general term, but for the purposes of this website, we've given it a specific definition. As far as this website is concerned, a microgame is any inexpensive--no more than $15--wargame or conflict simulation which is generally also small in size and quick-playing.

You're on the right track if this definition gets you thinking of a ziplock bagged game that young kids can afford, can be played in a lunch hour, and fits in the front pocket of a backpack. It's no coincidence that these are the circumstances under which many of us microgame fans originally found them--in the early 80s while still in school. (Although we figure a game would have to cost about half of today's price--no more than $8--to qualify for definition here at Microgame HQ.) This definition isn't perfect, but it works. For some examples, check out the database and mailing list links below.

The purists out there (ok, I'm one of them) would also note that MicroGame was the name for the popular line of small bagged and boxed games released by Metagaming Concepts in the 1970's and 80's. Although they weren't the first small-format wargames to hit the market, the MicroGames coined a lasting name for the format and their popularity convinced other game manufacturers to release similar small-format science fiction and fantasy games.
So join us in saluting the MicroGames, their off-spring, and their forefathers!

Microgame Links:

Microgame HQ FAQ

A short list of Frequently Asked Questions concerning microgames.

Microgame HQ Database
A list of microgames and publishers with links to reviews, variants, errata, cover art, and more!

Microgame HQ Archives
Nostalgic documents excavated by fanatic microgame fans.

Classic Microgames Museum
A visual retrospective of microgames published in the seventies and eighties.

Microgame Mailing List
An active email discussion list concerning micros and near-micros.
Populated by fans and professionals alike!

The PBeM Emporium
An extensive library of files allowing you to play many microgames online.

In-Print Microgames
A special page to help spread the word about current microgames, and how to get your hands on them.

Microgame Design Contest
Read about the infamous MDC '98 design contest, download the contest games, and find if we'll ever be crazy enough to try this again!

The Wargamer's Ring - The best wargaming sites on the net!

What's planned for later:

Microgame Database -- Listings by subject, publisher, designer, and other criteria.

Out-Of-Print Microgames -- Tips on tracking these down, which ones are more rare, etc.

Other Microgame Links -- Everything else!

An F-105 Thunderchief for the Webmaster -- just making sure you are paying attention!

Counter initialized 10/25/99

All company names, game names, artwork, publications and other products are copyrighted, trademarked and/or registered as applicable by their rightful owners.

Webmaster: Joe Scoleri, themaverick@volcano.net

Special thanks go to website sponsor Joe Hartley (of brainiac.com), and mailing list adminstrator Don Redick (of Fractal Dimensions).