Judges in Wargaming: Servant Leaders in the Community
The best tabletop wargaming events are not about who wins. They are about the experience. Every player comes to the table with their own goals, whether it is testing their skill, immersing themselves in the lore, or just rolling dice and having fun. But at the heart of any great event is a series of fair, well-run games, and that’s where judges come in.
Judges are not there to enforce rules with an iron fist or punish mistakes. Their role is to facilitate the game, ensure fair play, and help players resolve disputes so that everyone has the best possible experience. When done right, judges are servant leaders—guiding the community, fostering sportsmanship, and creating an environment where everyone can focus on what really matters: playing the game and enjoying themselves. But first, before judges come into the picture, many issues that arise can be handled between players.
Players First: Resolving Issues at the Table
A good time is built on mutual respect between players. Most disagreements should be resolved without outside intervention, relying on open communication, good sportsmanship, and a solid understanding of the rules. Arguably, an ideal and perfect world would have no need for judges.
Before calling a judge, players should take the time to:
Communicate clearly and upfront. Many conflicts arise from misunderstandings. Talking things through calmly and openly often solves the issue before it becomes a real problem.
Check the rules. The rulebook, codices, FAQs, and errata exist for a reason. Taking a few moments to reference and read the correct source can often settle a disagreement.
Be fair and considerate. Remember that your opponent is just as invested in the game as you are. A spirit of cooperation goes a long way in ensuring that both players have an enjoyable experience.
In many cases, a quick discussion and a rulebook check will resolve an issue without disrupting the flow of the game. However, when an agreement cannot be reached or mistakes are made, its important to know when to involve a judge.
When to Involve a Judge
While most disputes can be handled between players, there are moments when calling a judge is the right choice. Understanding when to involve a judge ensures that rulings are made efficiently and fairly without slowing the game down unnecessarily.
Players should call a judge when:
Rules disagreements persist. If players have checked the relevant rules and still cannot agree on an interpretation, a judge can provide clarity.
A situation escalates. If a disagreement becomes heated or begins to impact the enjoyment of the game, calling a judge can help de-escalate and reset the focus.
Time is a factor. If a discussion is dragging on and taking time away from gameplay, a judge can step in to provide a quick resolution.
When a judge is involved, players should:
Present their perspectives clearly and calmly with rules and references on hand.
Accept the judge’s ruling with good sportsmanship.
Move forward with the game and reemphasize the focus on having fun.
By knowing when to involve a judge and respecting their role as facilitators, players contribute to a more positive and engaging event for everyone.
Judges as Facilitators, Not Enforcers
Judges should never be seen as adversaries. They are not enforcers handing out punishments, they are servant leaders ensuring that games run smoothly and fairly. The best judges approach their role as facilitators, actively helping players focus on the game rather than the simple rules disputes that can sometimes arise.
Judges are there to actively help, not control. A good judge watches games, not to interfere unnecessarily, but to step in if they notice consistent mistakes or misunderstandings. Their goal is to educate and support, not dictate.
They keep games fair and fun. When players cannot resolve an issue on their own, a judge provides an unbiased ruling to keep things moving. Their job is not to punish or shame players but to ensure that the game remains fair and enjoyable for both sides.
They set the tone. Judges can help shape the culture of an event. A calm, approachable, and knowledgeable judge fosters an environment where players feel comfortable asking questions and trust that the game is well cared for. When judges act as trusted guides rather than strict enforcers, they contribute to an event’s success and ensure that everyone—regardless of skill level or experience—has a great time.
Judges as Servant Leaders
The best judges do not just answer rules questions; they actively support and strengthen the community through protecting the spirit of the game and making calls that enhance the experience for all players. A servant-leader judge prioritizes the players’ experience, making sure that games run fairly and smoothly while fostering a culture of respect, fun, and learning.
Great judges embody key qualities:
Empathy. They understand that players are invested in their games and that emotions can run high. A good judge listens and responds with patience.
Proactivity. They do not wait for problems to arise—they monitor games and step in before issues escalate.
Education. They do not just give rulings; they help players understand why a ruling is made, ensuring that the game remains a learning experience.
Encouragement. They set the example for sportsmanship, fair play, and a positive gaming environment.
When judges embrace their role as servant leaders, they help create an event culture that is welcoming, fair, and focused on the shared love of the game.
A Better Experience for Everyone
At the end of the day, wargaming events are about the players. Judges exist to enhance the experience, not overshadow it. When players take responsibility for resolving issues at their level and judges approach their role with a mindset of service and leadership, the entire community benefits.
Players who can handle most disputes themselves create a smoother, more enjoyable game.
Judges who act as servant leaders foster trust, sportsmanship, and a positive environment.
This partnership is what makes wargaming events so great. The best moments are not just about who wins or loses, but about the stories told, the friendships built, and the battles fought in the grim darkness of the far future.
So, whether you are rolling dice, debating a rules question, or asking a judge for guidance, remember we are all here for the same reason—to share an amazing hobby and to create legendary experiences together.
