Some current research on wargaming
The research on wargaming has grown in recent years. In particular, there has been a focus on its effectiveness as a research tool. Below are some pieces that help to shed light on wargaming and its potential:
Article: Lin-Greenberg, E., Pauly, R. B. C., & Schneider, J. G. (2021). Wargaming for International Relations research. European Journal of International Relations, 28(1), 83-109. https://doi-org.libproxy.york.ac.uk/10.1177/13540661211064090
In this article Lin-Greenberg et. al. highlight the research potential of wargames. In particular, their work shows that wargames allow for greater insight into the decision making process. They argue that wargames can highlight specific characteristics, such as race and gender, in the decision making process. Therefore taking our understanding of why actors decide certain actions beyond the traditional explanations.
Article: Schechter, B., Schneider, J., & Shaffer, R. (2021). Wargaming as a Methodology: The International Crisis Wargame and Experimental Wargaming. Simulation & Gaming, 52(4), 513-526. https://doi-org.libproxy.york.ac.uk/10.1177/1046878120987581
In this article Schechter et.al. provide an example of a wargame. They present a International Crisis Wargame. The wargame is based upon cyber and nuclear stability, and involves two scenarios. This is a useful article to help explain the development of a wargame, how to run one, and a good example to introduce the process.
Article: Reddie, A. W., & Goldblum, B. L. (2022). Evidence of the unthinkable: Experimental wargaming at the nuclear threshold. Journal of Peace Research, 60(5), 760-776. https://doi-org.libproxy.york.ac.uk/10.1177/00223433221094734
In this article, Reddie and Goldblum discuss their simulation 'SIGNAL' (which is available here). Their simulation seeks to explore the effect of nuclear capabilities on in the nuclear threshold, in a simulated environment.
Journal: Simulation & Gaming: An Interdisciplinary Journal of Theory, Practice and Research.
Simulation and Gaming publishes articles focuses on the role of gaming in research. It publishes articles on peace and conflict studies, but moves beyond this. There are a number of articles on security, war, and research methodologies all linked with gaming.
