Uploaded June 2025 | Updated September 2026, 36 minutes ago
In this episode of the Kriegsspiel Umpiring Chat Show, LaFondiose is joined by James, one of the most prolific and innovative umpires in the International Kriegsspiel Society. James recounts his journey from running early fog-of-war roleplaying battles using Google Drawings to orchestrating hundreds of structured play-by-post and live Kriegsspiel games across a wide range of historical periods. He shares how his focus on simplicity, scalability, and smart collaboration—especially by recruiting umpire teams—has allowed him to maintain an extraordinary output without burnout.
Topics include the growth of play-by-post gaming, techniques for organizing fast and immersive sessions, training new umpires, the origins of the Kriegsspiel Cup, and designing approachable newcomer experiences. Whether you’re new to umpiring or a veteran refining your craft, James offers clear, practical insights into managing workload, keeping scenarios engaging, and building a sustainable, vibrant Kriegsspiel community.
In this episode of the Kriegsspiel Umpiring Chat Show, LaFondiose is joined by James, one of the most prolific and innovative umpires in the International Kriegsspiel Society. James recounts his journey from running early fog-of-war roleplaying battles using Google Drawings to orchestrating hundreds of structured play-by-post and live Kriegsspiel games across a wide range of historical periods. He shares how his focus on simplicity, scalability, and smart collaboration—especially by recruiting umpire teams—has allowed him to maintain an extraordinary output without burnout.
Topics include the growth of play-by-post gaming, techniques for organizing fast and immersive sessions, training new umpires, the origins of the Kriegsspiel Cup, and designing approachable newcomer experiences. Whether you’re new to umpiring or a veteran refining your craft, James offers clear, practical insights into managing workload, keeping scenarios engaging, and building a sustainable, vibrant Kriegsspiel community.
