The High Crusade by Poul Anderson and there is a game too!

 I decided to read The High Crusade by Poul Anderson during these troubled times. I was able to get a copy from my local library using online ordering and curbside pick up, in between the library being shut down for unhealthy smoke conditions because of fires, construction and COVID-19. I wanted to read this book after finding it listed in a D&D Rules book.

 I am enjoying this book for several reasons, first it is just a hoot to read. It is pure adventure fun as the Medievals get ahold of a space ship and proceed to go into space. A humorous light read in a stressful time is just what I needed and I highly recommend you read this book if you need a little mirth. The book is also of interest as its plot gives an example of how you could get Medieval historical type PCs and wargaming troops in space (or a few other time periods) or your Fantasy PCs into space. Once in space you can take the players on a crazy Space Opera version of whatever game system you use. 

The book also shows how Medieval type (historic or fantasy) might respond to an Alien science based atheist society and how the more advanced civilization might be confused concerning the actions, beliefs and translations of concepts from the barbarians. If your considering mixing up your historic or fantasy wargaming or role playing game with a heavy dash of science fiction futurism I suggest you read The High Crusade.

In addition Ares Magazine #16 published a game based on this book... below are pictures I found on the net. I have not played this game but it looks fun.

You can find a pdf of the magazine here Ares #16

The following is all the cover art of this book to hopefully inspire you to do what the early designers of games like D&D always did which was to mix Science Fiction with Fantasy and Historic ideas.

 Stay safe folks. Protect your lungs from the smoke and yourself from C-19 by using appropriate masks for the conditions. Be ready to evacuate and evacuate if asked to. Stay safe.

Happy Gaming!