Tools and resources for RPG players and GMs
Running or playing in a tabletop RPG has never been easier, thanks to the vast number of online tools available. Whether you're a game master (GM) looking for worldbuilding software, a player seeking a character creator, or a group in need of a virtual tabletop (VTT), this guide compiles the best online resources to enhance your gaming experience.
🎲 Virtual Tabletops (VTTs)
Virtual tabletops allow players to connect remotely and run RPG sessions online with maps, dice rolling, and character sheets.
Roll20 – One of the most popular VTTs, offering an extensive library of assets and character sheets. (Website)
Foundry VTT – A powerful self-hosted option with extensive customization and mod support. (Website)
Fantasy Grounds – A feature-rich VTT with automation for various RPG systems. (Website)
Owlbear Rodeo – A lightweight and user-friendly alternative for quick online play. (Website)
🧙 Character Creation & Management
Simplify character creation and tracking with these tools:
D&D Beyond – The official character builder and digital ruleset for Dungeons & Dragons 5E. (Website)
Pathbuilder – An excellent tool for creating and managing Pathfinder 2E characters. (Website)
Hero Lab – Supports multiple RPG systems and provides automation for character management. (Website)
Fight Club 5 – A mobile app for managing D&D 5E characters on the go. (iOS)
🏰 Worldbuilding & Campaign Management
Keep your game world and campaign details organized with these tools:
World Anvil – A comprehensive tool for worldbuilding, storytelling, and campaign tracking. (Website)
Obsidian Portal – A wiki-style campaign manager for tracking lore, NPCs, and player progress. (Website)
Notion – A flexible, free-form tool that many GMs use for campaign planning. (Website)
Kanka – A collaborative tool designed for RPG campaigns and worldbuilding. (Website)
🗺️ Map Builders
Create stunning maps for your campaigns with these online tools:
Inkarnate – A powerful and user-friendly map-making tool with a vast asset library. (Website)
Wonderdraft – A one-time purchase software for creating beautiful fantasy maps. (Website)
Dungeon Scrawl – A quick and simple dungeon map generator for classic RPGs. (Website)
Watabou's Medieval Fantasy City Generator – Instantly create detailed city maps for your campaigns. (Website)
🎲 Dice Rollers
Need to roll dice online? These tools have you covered:
Google Dice Roller – Simple and quick, just search "roll a d20" on Google.
RPG Dice Roller – Customizable dice rolling with detailed logs. (Website)
Foundry Dice Roller – A browser-based roller with advanced settings. (Website)
🎭 Audio & Immersion Tools
Enhance the atmosphere of your games with immersive sound and music:
Syrinscape – Dynamic soundscapes for fantasy, sci-fi, and horror RPGs. (Website)
Tabletop Audio – Free background music and sound effects for RPGs. (Website)
Ambient Mixer – Create and customize ambient soundtracks. (Website)
🛠 Miscellaneous Tools
Additional useful utilities for RPG players and GMs:
Donjon – Random dungeon generators, name creators, and more.(Website)
Kobold Fight Club – Encounter balancing and combat generators for D&D. (Website)
5e Magic Shop Generator – Quickly generate magic item shops for your game. (Website)
Conclusion
No matter what kind of RPG experience you're looking for, these tools can help streamline gameplay, enhance immersion, and make the experience more enjoyable for everyone at the table. Have a favorite tool that isn’t listed here? Let us know so we can continue expanding this resource!
Happy hobbying!