Crafting Maps for VTTs

Crafting the perfect battle map for platforms like Foundry VTT and Roll20 involves a combination of creativity, technical skill, and an understanding of the dynamics of a tabletop RPG. In this essay, we’ll cover the key aspects of creating battle maps, including design principles, tools, and resources.

Introduction

Virtual Tabletops have revolutionized the way we play tabletop role-playing games, offering a dynamic and interactive environment for players and game masters alike. One of the critical elements of a successful VTT session is the battle map—a visual representation of the game world where combats unfold. Creating a compelling and functional battle map requires careful consideration of various factors, from layout and aesthetics to usability and interactivity.

Design Principles

1. Clarity and Readability

The foremost consideration when designing a battle map is ensuring clarity and readability. Players and the game master should be able to easily understand the terrain, obstacles, and key points of interest. Avoid clutter and use clear symbols and colors to represent different elements on the map.

2. Scale and Proportion

Maintaining a consistent scale and proportion is crucial for an immersive experience. Players need to have a sense of the relative sizes of objects and distances within the map. This consistency ensures that movement and spatial relationships align with the rules of the game system being used.

3. Variety and Detail

While clarity is essential, adding variety and detail enhances the visual appeal of the map. Incorporate diverse terrain features, such as elevation changes, bodies of water, and different types of cover. These details not only make the map more interesting but also provide strategic options for players.

4. Flexibility and Reusability

Design maps that can adapt to different scenarios and settings. Create modular elements that can be rearranged to form new maps, allowing for versatility in your game sessions. This approach also saves time in map creation and accommodates unexpected player choices.

5. Storytelling through Design

Let the map tell a story. Consider the narrative of the encounter or the overall campaign when designing the map. Incorporate elements that hint at the world’s lore or foreshadow future events. A well-designed map can evoke emotions and immerse players in the game world.

Tools for Map Creation

Several tools cater specifically to the creation of battle maps for VTTs. Here are some popular ones:

1. Dungeon Fog

Dungeon Fog is a web-based tool that allows users to create detailed battle maps with ease. It offers a vast library of assets, including tiles, props, and textures. Dungeon Fog’s user-friendly interface makes it accessible for both beginners and experienced map makers.

2. Inkarnate

Inkarnate is a versatile map-making tool that supports both world maps and battle maps. With a range of artistic assets and customization options, it’s a great choice for creating visually stunning battle maps. The platform is browser-based, making it accessible from various devices.

3. Wonderdraft

While primarily designed for world maps, Wonderdraft can be used to create high-quality battle maps. Its intuitive interface and extensive asset library make it a favorite among map makers. Wonderdraft’s export options allow seamless integration with VTT platforms.

4. Dungeondraft

Dungeondraft is a powerful tool focused on creating detailed and dynamic battle maps. It provides advanced features such as lighting effects, customizable textures, and easy-to-use layering. Dungeondraft exports maps in various formats suitable for VTT platforms.

5. Foundry VTT

Foundry VTT itself is a VTT platform that comes with built-in tools for map creation. Its dynamic lighting system and Fog of War features enhance the immersive experience. Foundry VTT allows for the import of maps created externally, giving flexibility to map makers.

6. Campaign Cartographer

Campaign Cartographer is one of the oldest dedicated RPG map makers. It is built on the venerable autocad base and can help users make very precise maps and import nearly limitless assets to creature your own growing styles.

Resources for Map Assets

Creating a battle map is not just about the tools; it’s also about having access to a rich variety of assets to populate your virtual world. Here are some resources for high-quality map assets:

1. DungeonDraft Community Packs

The DungeonDraft community actively creates and shares asset packs. These packs include additional tiles, props, and textures that expand the tool’s library. Communities on platforms like Reddit and Discord are excellent places to discover and download user-created content.

2. Cartography Assets

Cartography Assets is an online platform where map makers share their creations. It hosts a vast collection of assets for different map-making tools, including Dungeon Fog, Wonderdraft, and Dungeondraft. Users can browse and download assets based on their specific needs.

3. Roll20 Marketplace

The Roll20 Marketplace offers a variety of map packs and assets suitable for VTTs. While Roll20 has its VTT platform, many assets are compatible with other platforms like Foundry VTT. The marketplace includes tokens, tiles, and entire map packs designed by professional artists.

4. Foundry VTT Modules

The Foundry VTT community has created numerous modules that enhance the platform’s map-making capabilities. These modules may include additional assets, tools, and features that streamline the map creation process. The official Foundry VTT forums and user communities are excellent places to discover and install these modules.

Conclusion

Creating battle maps for Virtual Tabletop role-playing games is a blend of art and functionality. By adhering to design principles, using the right tools, and leveraging available resources, game masters can craft immersive and engaging maps that enhance the overall gaming experience. Whether you opt for user-friendly tools like Dungeon Fog or explore the versatility of platforms like Foundry VTT, the key is to experiment, iterate, and enjoy the process of bringing your game world to life. With the wealth of tools and resources available, the only limit to your virtual adventures is your imagination.