Why Onepagerules should be everyone's 2nd favorite wargame.

In recent years it seems like more and more that the niche hobby of tabletop wargaming is rapidly expanding. With new companies and rulesets spring up more and more often, creating a vibrant and vast marketplace for players new and old. Inside this new and exciting landscape there is always a fight to dominate the top spot- to be the current game dominating play spaces, painting stations, and online discussions. Yet, quietly and steadily, OnePageRules (OPR) has carved out a unique enclave, earning the affectionate title from my friend Chris as "your new second favorite wargame." And honestly, that’s a great thing.

At first glance, being "second favorite" might seem like settling for less. But in reality, it’s a sweet spot that OPR has excelled in. It’s not trying to dethrone the juggernauts like Warhammer, nor is it chasing after the latest game trend. OPR’s lack of the "flavor of the week" pressure is part of its charm. It’s not about new flashy gimmicks or complex meta-chasing; it’s about delivering a reliable and enjoyable experience. That’s why it’s often the game people turn to when they want something simpler, faster, or just different without sacrificing tactical depth. Part of this success is due to the standout streamlined rule system.

True to name, the core rules of OPR's various games fit on a single page (front and back mind you). This accessibility helps new players find the game easy to learn, while the familiarity helps veterans feel like the rules are not in the way. Despite this simplicity, OPR has managed to ensure each of their different systems feel distinct from each other. There is a shared design philosophy across all systems, while also having thematic and mechanic nuances to keep each game fresh and engaging.

One of the biggest advantages of OPR is the time it takes to play. Even larger point games can typically be wrapped up within two hours, making it an incredibly time-efficient option compared to other popular wargames. For instance, a full-scale 40k or Age of Sigmar game can easily stretch beyond three or four hours, depending on the armies and player familiarity. OPR’s streamlined rules and faster gameplay pace mean you can enjoy a satisfying battle without committing your entire day. This makes it ideal for busy players or those looking to squeeze in a game on a weeknight.

Completely free to use, ArmyForge makes army building and rule referencing a breeze. Its intuitive interface allows players to experiment with lists, explore unit stats, and even access rules on the fly. For a system that values accessibility and ease of play, ArmyForge is an indispensable companion. It is a major "selling point" within my own play group when talking to potential new players. Every unit/weapon/character special rule is available to reference with a tap of your finger.

Being a miniature agnostic game is another "selling point" you're likely to hear from almost every source out there. This allows new players to use almost any miniatures they can find for games, it opens up the vast world of 3d printing for those so inclined, and it allows the repurposing of other games or older minis.  This adaptability and freedom makes it a fantastic choice for hobbyists who want to experiment with different collections or bring their creative visions to life on the tabletop.

OPR’s position as a second favorite isn’t a flaw; it’s a strength. It’s the game you suggest when someone’s burned out on the big names or when you want to introduce a friend to wargaming without overwhelming them. It’s the system you turn to for a quick, fun, and tactical experience that doesn’t demand a huge time or monetary investment. With the release of plastic physical products, OPR is poised to become a true wargaming staple. A reliable fallback that is always there when you need. So here is to Onepagerules, our ultimate second favorite wargame, that may just become your first!