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In this episode of Wargaming Recon, hosts Jonathan J. Reinhart and Pete Bryant dive into an exciting discussion about potential travel destinations that cater specifically to war gamers. As April 2025 approaches, they recognize that many within the gaming community are beginning to plan trips, and this episode serves as a perfect guide for adventurous souls looking to combine their passion for history and gaming with real-world exploration.
The episode kicks off with Jonathan and Pete exchanging a few light-hearted moments before getting into the heart of the discussion. They quickly reveal that their list of must-visit destinations for war gamers is extensive, with so many locations being worthy of exploration that it could easily fill several episodes. Pete, in particular, expresses his enthusiasm about historical sites, including the Battle of Thermopylae, where the legendary stand of King Leonidas and his 300 Spartans against the Persian Empire unfolds in rich detail. He emphasizes the importance of strategic location in military history, echoing the wisdom of Sun Tzu on the pivotal nature of choosing when and where to engage in battle.
Moving on to more unexpected locales, Jonathan segues into the American Classic Arcade Museum in Laconia, New Hampshire—a hidden gem for gamers nostalgic for the coin-op arcade era of the ’80s and ’90s. Listeners will relish Jonathan’s memories of classic games like Donkey Kong and the cultural impact of arcades that evolved into tabletop gaming. Here, both hosts highlight how understanding the roots of gaming mechanics can enrich one’s appreciation for modern design.
As they explore further, Pete brings up Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria, Germany, a fairy-tale structure that served as an inspiration for Disney’s castle design. He narrates his personal experience visiting this iconic location, underscoring its picturesque environment and the castle’s historical significance during King Ludwig II’s reign. The romanticism surrounding Neuschwanstein captivates gaming enthusiasts, offering an inspiring backdrop for role-playing settings.
Another highlight in the episode is Gettysburg, described by Jonathan as perhaps the best-preserved battlefield in American history. The duo reflects on its significance during the Civil War, the emotional weight of visiting the site, and its importance for reenactors and tabletop gamers who seek to capture the essence of that pivotal moment in history through their games and narratives.
Wargaming Recon doesn’t shy away from discussing other major historical events and locations either. Normandy Beach features prominently in their discussion, as it’s remembered for The D-Day invasion, a profound and humbling site that has left a lasting legacy on warfare history. Their heartfelt commentary touches on the sacrifices made during wartime and the importance of remembering those who fought.
Shifting gears, Pete discusses Warhammer World in Nottingham, UK, where he describes the immersive experiences available for fans of the Warhammer franchise, including museum exhibitions, exclusive merchandise, and unique environments that celebrate its lore. Likewise, the conversation turns to Pearl Harbor, with both hosts expressing how visiting such a site can be a moving and educational experience for war gamers who wish to understand the broader implications of such historic battles.
Throughout the episode, Pete and Jonathan also sprinkle in mentions of other intriguing destinations like Hadrian’s Wall, the Imperial War Museums in London, and exciting conventions like ReaperCon and Gen Con, where community gathering and engagement in tabletop gaming take center stage. They also explore the therapeutic side of gaming and how visiting these historical locations can enhance how players engage with their hobby.
Finally, they finish with some insights into their own gaming projects, including Jonathan’s ongoing Kickstarter campaign aimed at remastering episodes from the pandemic seasons, and Pete’s new diner-themed game, “Kiss My Grits.” Listeners are encouraged to support these endeavors and stay tuned for more content from both Wargaming Recon and Solarian Games.
Whether you are a seasoned war gamer or an enthusiastic traveler, this episode of Wargaming Recon promises to inspire listeners to plan meaningful journeys that intertwine their love for history and gaming, all while providing an engaging blend of humor, insight, and invaluable recommendations.
