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MapTool
What it is
MapTool is a free, open-source virtual tabletop for creating detailed maps and running games online. Its integrated server connects players over the internet, while support for square or hex grids, tokens and images works across game systems. Visibility tools include dynamic lighting, vision, fog of war and topology controls that restrict what players can see. A scripting language and macros can automate game activities, and macros can call REST services such as the documented Syrinscape sound API. MapTool runs as a local application on Windows, macOS and Linux rather than in a browser, with storage limited by available disk space. The maker provides forums, Discord, tutorials and a wiki. Version 1.18.6 is listed as released October 30, 2025. Complex calculations and rolls require campaign properties and code macros.
For and against
For
- Free and open source
- Integrated server supports online play
- Dynamic lighting and fog of war
- Runs on Windows, macOS and Linux
- Macros can call REST services
Against
- No mobile apps
- Complex rolls require code macros
- Not browser-based
- Installers may prompt for network access
The verdict
MapTool provides extensive map visibility and automation tools without tying campaigns to one game system. Its local installation and macro requirements make it better suited to users comfortable managing desktop software and scripts.
Who it suits
MapTool suits game masters and groups wanting a local, system-agnostic virtual tabletop with online play. It also fits users comfortable configuring macros and campaign properties.
Plans and prices
MapTool
Free and open source · installable app for Windows, macOS, and Linux
Read 8 Oct 2026 · rptools.net
On the record
- Compatibility
- The FAQ says MapTool 1.5 and later supports 64-bit operating systems and includes the Java JVM in builds for Windows, macOS, and Linux.rptools.net · read 8 Oct 2026
- Customization
- MapTool includes its own scripting language and macros that can automate game activities.rptools.net · read 8 Oct 2026
- Game systems
- MapTool is game system agnostic and can accommodate maps, square or hex grids, tokens, and images.rptools.net · read 8 Oct 2026
- Integrations
- MapTool macros can call REST services, and the maker documents using Syrinscape’s REST API to play sounds for connected players.rptools.net · read 8 Oct 2026
- Local app
- MapTool is not browser-based and does not depend on a remote server; storage is limited by available disk space.rptools.net · read 8 Oct 2026
- Maker
- RPTools began as an umbrella project to house MapTool and describes the project as open source and community contributed.rptools.net · read 8 Oct 2026
- Map features
- It supports dynamic lighting, vision, fog of war, and topology tools that can limit what players see.rptools.net · read 8 Oct 2026
- Notable limitation
- Automating calculations and complex rolls requires campaign properties and code macros.rptools.net · read 8 Oct 2026
- Online play
- Its integrated server connects players over the internet.rptools.net · read 8 Oct 2026
- Product
- MapTool is a virtual tabletop for creating detailed maps and replacing pen, paper, battle mats, and dice.rptools.net · read 8 Oct 2026
- Release status
- The MapTool page lists version 1.18.6, released October 30, 2025, and says stable and development builds are available.rptools.net · read 8 Oct 2026
- Security note
- The maker says installers may prompt users to allow network access and that macOS may require users to allow the app to open because it is not recognized as from an identified developer.rptools.net · read 8 Oct 2026
- Support
- The maker points users to its forums, Discord, tutorials, and wiki for questions and documentation.rptools.net · read 8 Oct 2026
