History Meets Heart

On Saturday 12 April Stone Paper Scissors collaborated with Goalhanger - producers of the popular 'We Have Ways of Making You Talk', Second World War-themed podcast hosted by Al Murray and James Holland, to deliver charity wargames in support of Finleys Touch. This charity raises funds to provide financial grants for families during treatment, National Trust memberships to help children enjoy the outdoors, and ‘Hospital Survival Bags’ for young patients facing extended hospital stays.

Led by Jim Wallman (supported by our crew of veteran game facilitators) and with enthusiastic participation from Al Murray—whose passion for WWII history is well known through the podcast —the day was an engaging experience for all.

SPS ran two separate wargames, Nijmegen Assault and Arnhem Assault, each covering the crucial decsions and events of these two battles during the famous Operation Market Garden (and coincidentally the second game is also the subject of a recent book by Al Murray. Unlike traditional miniatures-based or board wargames, this was a ‘double-blind’ game: participants could only see their own forces and what limited intelligence they had on their opponents—introducing the classic military concept of the "fog of war".

And, this was not a re-enactment. While grounded in real historical scenarios, players were free to make their own decisions, exploring alternative outcomes through a compelling “what if?” structure. Teams represented divisional command staffs, navigating the complexities of communication, incomplete information, and battlefield decisions. Importantly, no prior knowledge of game mechanics was required. The Control Team facilitated the event, ensuring participants could focus on strategic thinking, key decisions and important communications.

The day was a great success, receiving glowing feedback and raising vital support for The Finley Touch. Stone Paper Scissors is proud to have played its part.