Hobbies And Interests
Mechanics of Postage Games
Unlike traditional board games, where all players sit at the same table and directly execute their turn or move decisions, postage games require players to mail their turns to each other. This encourages more forethought and planning than traditional board games, as players only make a move once every few days or weeks. As a result, postage games last considerably longer than their in-person counterparts, as their is no inherent playtime limit.
Advantages of Play by Mail
The primary advantage of postage games is the ability to play with other non-local players. However, the Internet and telephone allow for long-distance real-time communication. Nevertheless, play-by-mail systems remain popular due to their asynchronous communication style. That is, players do not need to commit to a specific date, time or location, but may nevertheless all play in the same game together.
Classic Games
Any traditional turn-based board game that does not require dice may be played by mail. Popular examples include chess and checkers. Each player sets up a board at his residence, and descriptions of moves are mailed back and forth. Upon receiving his opponent's move, a player is responsible for updating the board at his own end.
Modern Games
Newer postage games have sprung up in recent years. The Glory of Kings recreates 18th century Europe, and works as a subscription service; players pay a monthly fee and receive information on the latest game happenings and how to submit their turns. In development for over 20 years, the Glory of Kings is the single longest-running postage game. Diplomacy, a turn-based board game involving pre-WWI Europe, was the first commercially released board game to be played by mail, and still has a thriving play-by-mail community. For elaborate multiplayer games, single players may act as a judge or moderator to ensure smooth play.
Play by Email
With the advent of modern computer systems and electronics communication, postage games have declined in popularity with play-by-email systems taking their place. Where once players needed to physically mail chess moves, it is now possible to easily and quickly email turns back and forth. Likewise, numerous websites have sprung up with free and for-pay online versions of chess, checkers, Risk, Axis &Allies, Diplomacy and more.