These maps are often gridded and include details such as rooms, corridors, traps, and other important features. Dungeon maps – this type of map is much smaller in scale than the region map and focuses on the layout of a specific area, usually a dungeon or a building, that the players will be exploring.Visuals on the map itself can help fuel a mental picture of the heroic tales the dice are telling, and make keeping track of environmental hazards and hurdles easier. The battle map solves this, allowing the players to see themselves, visible enemies, and measure the distance in between themselves whilst waiting for their turn to come up. Battle maps – (or battlemaps) theatre of the mind (TotM) games can be very fun and exciting, but it can also lead to a lot of confusion and time-wasting, as the players need to ask repeatedly for clarifications.

If you play a more sandbox type of game, then this map can take on a more functional role as it will likely be divided into hexes, your greater exploration charted by which hex you wish to explore next. Sometimes this is just used for illustrative or reference purposes so your players can better grasp the world they vicariously live in and therefore plot their travels accordingly.

Region maps – this kind covers a larger area, from whole villages to entire kingdoms or continents, showing you the terrain, roads, and main points of interest.

Free map creator fantasy