Summary
Since their debut fifty years ago, tabletop RPGs likeDungeons & Dragonsand other systems have never been as popular as they are in recent years. Their presence in pop culture, such as in the Netflix seriesStranger Thingsor Amazon’s animated showThe Legend of Vox Machina, based onCritical Role’slive stream, has significantly boosted this growth.
Unfortunately, gathering friends to play can sometimes be a challenging task due to distance and other commitments. However, in recent years, various tools have emerged, ranging from basic information storage platforms to more complex ones with animations and automation that enhance player immersion. Thanks to these tools, fans can continue their adventures from anywhere.
10Play Role
A Discord Focused On Tabletop RPG
Play Roleis an all-in-one platform designed for tabletop RPG enthusiasts, providing a seamless and immersive experience. With HD video and audio, players can enjoy clear clarity during game sessions. The platform also features integrated text chat for both public and private communications, and it is compatible with desktops, laptops, tablets, and phones.
Play Rolealso enhances gameplay with aflexible digital dice roller for defeating different enemies, collaborative maps, tokens, drawing tools, and customizable character sheets.The paid Role Patron plan offers unlimited room creation, a larger data cap, an audio player, and a store discount. So, if players are willing to commit to the subscription,Play Rolecan be a good option.
9Shmeppy
Simple Maps To Streamline Tabletop RPGs
Another simple alternative for players who don’t want to waste time preparing the game and jump straight into the adventure itself,Shmeppycan be a great and versatile option.The maps inShmeppyare simple, although players passionate about pixel art can be inventive. It also has support for rolling dice and different platforms like computers or cell phones.
Although it has a free trial,Shmeppydoes not have free plans. So, Game Masters will need to have a monthly subscription to enjoy all the benefits, but players can join rooms for free.
8Owlbear Rodeo
Maps And Other Tools For RPGs
Owlbear Rodeois a slightly more complex tool for those who want to play tabletop RPGs online but also seek simplicity in some aspects. The platformallows players to access different mapsand resources such as tokens, in addition to extensions that complement the tool, like dice, initiative trackers, and others.
Owlbearalso offers almost all of its features for free, as well as access to the optimized version for mobile devices. However, storage is limited to 200MB, and players who want to store more files on the platform and have more than two tables can opt for a monthly subscription.
7Alchemy RPG
Perfect For Theater Of The Mind RPGs
Despite being very popular and increasing immersion, especially during combat, tabletop RPGs do not always need maps. Some players and groups prefer to imagine the scene, a practice known as Theater of the Mind, and for this style of play,Alchemy RPGis perfect.
Alchemy RPGhas several tools that value this style of play, which also fits well for those players who want to stream their sessions online. Additionally, the platform has partnerships with several game developers, allowing players to purchase content directly through the app. It also has a monthly subscription that provides unlimited access to world and character creation.
6MapTool
Free And Open Source Virtual Table Top
MapToolis a free, open-source, and versatile VTT that extends beyond map creation. It replaces pen, paper, battle mats, and dice with a robust digital platform. With its integrated server, players can connect from anywhere with an internet connection, facilitating global gameplay.
However,MapToolrequires installation, providing independence from remote servers and subscription fees and allowing unlimited storage based on one’s disk space. The platform also supports advanced features like Dynamic Lighting, Vision, Fog of War, and its own scripting language for custom content.Its “game system agnostic” design allows players to engage with any system.
5Tabletop Simulator
Offers Many Possibilities
Tabletop Simulatoris a paid software that offers a versatile platform for playing tabletop games online. It provides the authentic feel of gathering friends around a table, making it ideal for RPG enthusiasts who value the social aspect of gaming. Players can interact with virtual pieces and roll dice, simulating a real-life gaming session.
However,Tabletop Simulatorlacks extensive automation and built-in systems specifically for RPGs, requiring manual setup and management of game elements. Despite this, its flexibility and immersive environment makeTabletop Simulatora popular choice for those seeking to recreate the traditional tabletop RPG experience digitally.
4TaleSpire
Complex 3D Maps For Tabletop RPGs
TaleSpireoffers a beautiful way to play tabletop RPGs online, bringing a detailed 3D version of the maps. This software is paid, without the need for a subscription, but all players need to have a copy to join the scene. DMs can stream the screen on Discord, allowing for a shared experience.
It combines the handcrafted aesthetics of traditional tabletop games with the endless possibilities of the digital world. Players can manage heroes, roll dice directly on the board, and interact with the environment.Game Masters can create expansive maps, control immersive soundscapes, and modify the world in real time.
3Fantasy Grounds
Powerful Engine For Tabletop RPG Players
Fantasy Groundsis one of the platforms with the most support created, with various official game licenses available for players to acquire, likeDungeons and Dragons,Pathfinder, andStarfinder, making it easier to set up a tabletop RPG. Additionally, it offers advanced features such as dynamic lighting, limited vision, and enhanced drawing tools, making it one of the most complete on the market.
To play, each person needs to have their own license to access the platform’s resources. However,Fantasy Groundsalso has an “Ultimate” version that allows the GM to host games without the players needing to purchase the program.
2Roll20
One Of The Most Famous TTRPG Platforms On The Market
Despite the name referring toDungeons & Dragons,Roll20is a robust platform for those who want to play any type of tabletop RPG online with friends. Additionally, it is browser-based, so players don’t need to download it to their computers, and it has access to interactive maps and integration with various systems.
1Foundry VTT
Robust And Highly Customizable Virtual Tabletop
Among all the tools available on the market,Foundry VTTis one of the most powerful that players can acquire for their online tabletop RPG sessions. Although it may seem a bit basic at first glance, the platform has a huge active community creating modules that allow shaping the gameplay in the best possible way, and somesystems likePathfinder 2eare completely integrated into the platform.
Only one person needs to purchase theFoundry VTTlicense, which offers support for integrated animations, videos, and sounds, enhancing player immersion. Additionally, its flexibility allows for the complete customization of game systems and automation. However, the software does not support mobile devices, limiting its use to computers.
