SUBMISSIONS

Wargames, Soldiers & Strategy magazine is written partially by an editorial staff and partially by independent authors. We commission articles from wargamers all over the world. We publish both articles we plan ourselves, often to fit our themes, but also on suggestion of prospective authors.

Preparation

Please consider the following when planning an article:
- Review the editorial plan to see what themes are coming up and which other articles are already planned to prevent double coverage.
- Discuss your idea with the editor to check for objections. There may be other articles planned that have not yet made it to the editorial plan.
- Be prepared to have your article edited. There may be many reasons why an article needs some kind of rewriting. We will always try to discuss any problems with the author, but that may occasionally not be possible. If you are unwilling to submit to this, please reconsider turning in your abstract.
- Finally, please be familiar with Wargames, Soldiers & Strategy. Sample copies may be requested from the editor.

Abstract

Once you have a clear idea of your article, submit your abstract to the editor via e-mail. Your query should include at least a short introduction, the title of your article, an abstract of no less than 100 and no more than 500 words and finally a short list of websites or books for more information (when relevant). The most important information in your abstract is what angle you plan to take, how you are going to tackle your subject and what sources will you use (if necessary for the article).
You should receive a reply to your query within 1 to 2 weeks. If and once your proposal is accepted, you will receive a confirmation outlining length in words, deadline and agreed remuneration. The latter is set at 50 euros per 1000 words.

Content level

Wargames, Soldiers & Strategy is a casual publication with a relaxed, friendly tone. Articles should be aimed at making the subject-matter appear fun and exciting. WSS is a magazine about historical wargaming, but since our main focus is the game, authors should try to avoid providing long or unnecessary historical background for the period - that’s why we have history books! When used, historical information should be short, to the point and directly relevant to explaining or furthering the game play.  Ideally, articles should appeal to a mixed audience of experienced and beginning gamers: be clear and thorough in your explanations, but don’t get overly technical or complex.

Introduction

As mentioned above, Wargames, Soldiers & Strategy aims to avoid extensive historical analysis. There are plenty of specialized books, magazines and documentaries for this purpose! Articles should provide a short, concise historical introduction. Also keep in mind that if you are writing an article for the magazine’s theme, a separate introduction may have already been provided. If possible, try to create a clear narrative in the first few paragraphs of your writing: reading about battles (whether real or on the tabletop), is always more fun when it feels like a story.

You - the author

People like to engage with their author. Since Wargames, Soldiers & Strategy is a relaxed, fun magazine, you can feel free to bring your own experiences into your article and write using a friendly, conversational tone - imagine you’re having a laugh with a mate from your local wargaming club. Of course, your writing should still be well-structured and grammatically correct. While we want you to write like you’re talking to a friend, you shouldn’t necessarily write everything you would say to a friend (we don’t need to hear about the pizza you had last night!)

Technical details

Be careful with jargon and technicalities: explain uncommon words when they cannot be avoided, but first consider if they are necessary for a proper understanding of your text. Remember: jargon may confuse more than it elucidates.

Illustrations

In some cases, we will find photos to illustrate your article on our own. However, if you are able to provide high-resolution, good quality images (good lighting and in-focus) of well-painted miniatures, we’d love to hear from you! Even if you cannot provide the these photographs yourself, suggestions for possible sources are greatly appreciated. We may be able to come and photograph the relevant miniatures if need be. Finally, some articles may be selected for illustration by one of our professional artists. In that case we will team you up as soon as possible so you can provide input for the artist in question.