Professional Wargaming in France

From Influence models to a now regular practice of wargaming at the highest level of decision makers, sometimes on par with allies, we discuss the why and how of wargaming and serious gaming has taken a new path in the last 5 to 10 years in France.

Patrick Ruestchmann is deputy director, wargaming, with the French Joint Staff / Joint Center for Concepts, Doctrines and Experiments. He designs and facilitate wargames for High Level Authorities, including NATO and partners. He is graduated from the Institute of Advanced Studies in National Defense, he is also an Operational Reserve Officer. His academic background includes applied researches (AI-Cognitive Science), innovation management and digital transformation.

Previously, Patrick was Head of the Digital Transformation Department for the French Prime Minister’s Digital Directorate and director on a Government Priority Policy. He was president of Serious Games Network - France (non-profit association, organizer of two Connections Fr) and has published both serious and hobby wargames.

Host or Publisher Georgetown University Wargaming Society