Finding the best virtual tabletop programs can be a struggle, mainly because there are quite a few options to choose from. To make your life easier, we have created a list of some of the top choices we believe provide in terms of customization and affordability.
We have listed user-friendly options that you can choose for your D&D online and TTRPGs. Check out and single out the one you think is perfect for you.
The Best Virtual Tabletop Software in 2024
Here are some of the best tabletop software that you can get your hands on:
1. Foundry Virtual Tabletop
Price: $50 for one-time hosts only
The Foundry Virtual Tabletop is a go-to for people who want a home game. It is a web-based software that is entirely customizable, allowing users to create and run TTRPG games. The software will enable you to import maps that users create as JPEGs. The layer on the usable grid will enable players to move different characters around during fights or based on traveling long distances.
Another added feature is the layering of music that users on top of each other, allowing them to mix a song with an atmospheric track. Import all your rule systems and templates for D&D and TTRPGs. If you plan to use the Foundry, you must buy the license, which means paying $50 but as a one-time cost, and then none of your players have to pay to use the software.
2. Tabletop Simulator
Price: $20 per person
Tabletop Simulator is one of the most engaging software and exists within the three-dimensional space. The software isn’t built to work with the TTRPGs conveniently, so you need to put in some effort and get used to this. On the other hand, Tabletop Simulator has an active community of users, allowing them to play any board game virtually.
A quick stop in the Steam workshop will allow people to look at the mods created for games. Setting up the game can be tricky, but you can interact with 3D maps and miniatures after you are done. Tabletop Simulator software is for those who are committed because it does require a lot of work. However, the game needs to be purchased by every player, but on the brighter side, it is usually on sale for $10, so it’s not very pricey.
3. Roll20
Price: Free version, $50/$100 per year
Roll20 is one of the most well-known virtual tabletop software, mainly because it’s user-friendly and accessible to some extent. Like Foundry, it is a web-based software, so you do not have to download it on your devices. Roll20 doesn’t revolve around D&D either; it has rules for different games, such as Call of Cthulhu and Pathfinder.
While Roll20 is free, all interesting details are locked behind the market. You can buy multiple games, maps, tokens, objects, art, etc. If you’re planning to go all out, then Roll20 can be a bit challenging. It comes with different subscription packages, such as $5/month and $10/month, allowing you to gain access to character sheets and more extensive upload storage. However, you can still enjoy a good adventure without getting any extra bits!
4. Astral
Price: Free
Astral is a blend of Foundry VTT and Roll20. The platform is web-based and is quite similar to the Roll20 model. The platform is free but has subscription levels and a marketplace. Amongst all the features it offers, the unique one is the dynamic visual FX. It allows your games to become engaging compared to static battle maps. It also comes with different tabs, allowing you to track your moves and creatures that can pop up. As a GM, it proves to be quite resourceful.
Astral gives users free access to numerous game systems, including D&D, The Witcher Oen, Vampire: The Masquerade, and Paper RPG. Amongst the virtual tabletop software apps, Astral is one of the easiest to work with, especially when setting up, creating, and running a session. At the basic level, you can upload around 1 GB of content, which can run low quickly if you assess soundtracks and high-resolution maps.
5. TaleSpire
Price: $25/person
TaleSpire is a new virtual tabletop, a three-dimensional software built entirely around TTRPGs. The advantage of the software is that it allows you to be very creative with map building. Players get the best version of what’s happening around them quite properly. All players need to own the game so they can play it, which is one of the cons. However, the easiest way to play it is when the gamers purchase a duplicate for themselves and stream it on their screens for their players.
6. Fantasy Grounds
Price: $150 for hosts and $40/person.
Fantasy Grounds is a software that has been around for quite some time. But unlike some web-based software on this list, you have to download the software. This is one of the most challenging tabletop software that you need to engage with for multiple reasons. Starting, the version is free and allows users to engage with the Demo version. But on the downside, you cannot play it with people unless you know someone with a $150 license.
The software was established in 2004, making it look like a very old version. However, it is a tabletop software that comes with purchasable books within the system. The software has a retro RPG aesthetic and is customizable. You can do some wild things while using the software.
7. The RPG Engine
Price: $20/person
The RPG Engine is one of the newest additions to the virtual tabletop software. The platform allows users to build three-dimensional maps that can be transferred to 2D. You can paint the areas around the map, sculpt, and fill them with figures and items. The space might seem small initially; however, if you reduce the scope, you will understand that you have more room than you can imagine.
You can run different battles within the tabletop software, but there aren’t specific rules for D&D and Call of Cthulhu. Moreover, making maps in the game takes a lot of work, too, but people who love being creative will love the challenge it comes with. However, the RPG Engine is still running in the beta version so more options might be included for GMs.
Bottom Line
Indulge in playing games online with your friends on various virtual tabletop software. We have provided you with a list of 7 of the best ones with a user-friendly interface and are affordable. Some are free, while others charge a small fee to operate for a month or even a year. Do not miss out on the chance to play with your friends, or become a host and let everyone join in!
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Bethany Wilson 
Sarah Durrani 
