Wargames Atlantic Unleashes “Sharpe’s Rifles” on the Tabletop

For fans of historical wargaming, the Napoleonic Wars, and the iconic character of Richard Sharpe, exciting news has exploded from Wargames Atlantic! They are officially bringing Bernard Cornwell’s beloved “Sharpe” series to the tabletop with a new, officially licensed hard plastic miniatures range and a dedicated wargame. Get ready to shout “BASTARDS!” and lead your Riflemen to victory!

A New Era for Napoleonic Skirmishes

Wargames Atlantic is known for its high-quality, affordable hard plastic miniatures, and the “Sharpe’s Rifles” range is no exception. This isn’t just a collection of figures; it’s a comprehensive push to immerse players in the gritty, heroic, and often brutal world of the Peninsular War.

The initial reveal has been particularly exciting, with a Richard Sharpe 1809 miniature leading the charge. This set is a fantastic start, offering both a 28mm multi-part version for your wargames and a stunning 54mm display piece with a scenic base for painting enthusiasts. The 28mm Sharpe comes with multiple arm and head options, allowing for customization to match your preferred interpretation of the character – whether it’s the TV show’s Sean Bean or Cornwell’s novelistic description.

Future releases are already planned to expand the iconic cast, with Harper, Rifleman Harris, and other notable characters from the series confirmed to follow. This commitment to bringing the entire “Chosen Men” to life is sure to delight fans.

Gameplay by a Master: Andy Hobday at the Helm

The anticipation for the game itself is palpable, especially with the news that Andy Hobday is hard at work on the rules. Hobday is a respected name in the historical wargaming community, known for crafting engaging and well-regarded systems like Test of Honour, Mortal Gods, and The Barons’ War. His involvement strongly suggests that “Sharpe’s Rifles: The Wargame” will be a skirmish-based game, perfectly capturing the close-quarters, character-driven action that defines the novels and TV series.

While specific mechanics are still under wraps, given Hobday’s previous work, we can expect a system that balances tactical depth with a relatively low barrier to entry, allowing players to focus on the narrative and heroic deeds of their chosen men. The emphasis will likely be on individual character actions and small unit maneuvers, mirroring the daring exploits of Sharpe and his Rifles behind enemy lines.

Release Schedule and What to Expect

The first miniature set, Richard Sharpe 1809, is already available for pre-order and is slated for release on September 4th, 2025.

As for the full wargame, Wargames Atlantic has announced that the rules will be revealed and the game will launch in Spring 2026. This gives hobbyists ample time to build and paint their initial Sharpe miniatures, ready for when the rules hit the table.

Why “Sharpe’s Rifles” is a Must-Have

This upcoming release is a dream come true for Napoleonic wargamers and fans of Bernard Cornwell alike. It offers:

• Officially Licensed Miniatures: Finally, highly detailed, hard plastic figures that authentically represent the beloved characters.
• Renowned Game Designer: Andy Hobday’s involvement ensures a robust and engaging ruleset.
• Skirmish-Level Focus: Perfect for recreating the dramatic, personal battles of the series.
• Expandable Range: With more characters on the way, the possibilities for building your “Chosen Men” and their adversaries are exciting.

Whether you’re a seasoned wargamer looking for a new historical period to dive into, or a fan of Richard Sharpe eager to bring his adventures to your tabletop, Wargames Atlantic’s “Sharpe’s Rifles” promises to be an essential addition to your collection. Keep an eye on Wargames Atlantic’s channels for more previews and news as Spring 2026 approaches – the battlefield awaits, you bastards!