Zones of Control: Perspectives on Wargaming

Zones of Control: Perspectives on Wargaming, edited by Pat Harrigan and Matthew G. Kirschenbaum, was published by the MIT Press in 2016. Conceived as a comprehensive exploration of the wargame as a medium, the volume emerged from a growing academic interest in the intersection of military history, game design, and digital humanities. The editors sought to bridge the gap between hobbyist wargaming communities and institutional military analysis, creating a singular reference that examines the evolution, philosophy, and social implications of simulation.

The book is notable for its sprawling, interdisciplinary scope, featuring contributions from scholars, game designers, and military professionals. Its design reflects this density, incorporating a wide array of visual materials, maps, and technical diagrams to accompany essays that range from historical analysis to theoretical critiques. Upon its release, it was received as a definitive anthology, praised for legitimizing wargaming as a subject of serious critical study while preserving the practical nuances of how these games are constructed and played.