Discussing NSDM’s new American Revolution Crisis game variant, the lead designer will discuss insights gained in creating a model of the event for roll playing purposes. What historical figures to include, to amalgamate, or to exclude? What historical events to plan as inserts, what to leave out, what counter-factual events to stimulate game play and keep outcomes uncertain? When to begin the simulation, and how far to take it? Lecture will discuss issues of target audience and expectations of their baseline knowledge, background material to present, the balance between politicking and fighting, and how to keep the simulation from going off the rails. Presented by Merle Robinson lead game designer on the National Security Decision Making Game staff.