[Suicide Junkie]

If at all possible, playing a hotseat game would probably be a very good way to learn.
Playing tactical combat can get you a good feel for the advantages and disadvantages of the various weapons, defenses and general design theories.
Just agree to "open source" any tricks you figure out, say, 15 turns or fewer after you've used it on your opponent. That way you can both live and learn as you go.