MapForge
Map-making software for creating tactical-scale battlemaps for RPGs (or even some boardgames), with a large library of ready-to-use mapping content Add-Ons (including 10 free ones!). Also works with your own artwork/bitmaps, via drag-and-drop.
- Freemium • Proprietary
- Role-playing Game
- Mac
- Windows
...
What is MapForge?
This low-cost and easy-to-use map-making software focuses on creating gorgeous hi-resolution tile-based tactical-scale battlemaps.
Intended for GMs that want to make their own slick-looking full-color battlemaps, but just don’t have the time or patience to learn to use a sophisticated image editing application like Photoshop or Gimp, or for those who have tried existing mapping software and been frustrated with the learning curve, the cost, the interface, and/or been disappointed by the results.
MapForge is intended to allow anyone, regardless of their art skills (or lack thereof), to create gorgeous battlemaps in record time. Some of the features are geared towards producing Photoshop-like effects without the steep learning curve that producing such effects normally requires. Easily add special effects like bevels, glows, strokes, blurs, and drop shadows, and (optionally) textures (e.g. stone, brick, cement, cobblestones, etc.).
When using Add-Ons, the software organizes the content into logical categories and groups together any variants. This makes browsing the content to find what you need very fast and efficient. The software knows how large each asset should be (in grid squares), and even lets you know if a given map you’ve created can be used in commercial/published projects.
Use high-resolution output to print maps to use at the gaming table, or lower-resolution output for use in virtual tabletop software such as Roll20 or Fantasy Grounds.
No recurring monthly subscriptions. Pay once, own it forever (even switch platforms for free). Or use it for free (low-resolution output only).
Export all or just part of your maps to BMP, JPG, PNG, or TIFF, with optional square or hex grid overlay.
Note that MapForge is NOT a general-purpose mapping app; you probably won’t be using it to map out continents or entire worlds. It’s narrower in scope, focusing on tile-based and grid-based mapping at tactical combat scale (typically 1” = 5 ft., or 1 hex = 3 feet).
Intended for GMs that want to make their own slick-looking full-color battlemaps, but just don’t have the time or patience to learn to use a sophisticated image editing application like Photoshop or Gimp, or for those who have tried existing mapping software and been frustrated with the learning curve, the cost, the interface, and/or been disappointed by the results.
MapForge is intended to allow anyone, regardless of their art skills (or lack thereof), to create gorgeous battlemaps in record time. Some of the features are geared towards producing Photoshop-like effects without the steep learning curve that producing such effects normally requires. Easily add special effects like bevels, glows, strokes, blurs, and drop shadows, and (optionally) textures (e.g. stone, brick, cement, cobblestones, etc.).
When using Add-Ons, the software organizes the content into logical categories and groups together any variants. This makes browsing the content to find what you need very fast and efficient. The software knows how large each asset should be (in grid squares), and even lets you know if a given map you’ve created can be used in commercial/published projects.
Use high-resolution output to print maps to use at the gaming table, or lower-resolution output for use in virtual tabletop software such as Roll20 or Fantasy Grounds.
No recurring monthly subscriptions. Pay once, own it forever (even switch platforms for free). Or use it for free (low-resolution output only).
Export all or just part of your maps to BMP, JPG, PNG, or TIFF, with optional square or hex grid overlay.
Note that MapForge is NOT a general-purpose mapping app; you probably won’t be using it to map out continents or entire worlds. It’s narrower in scope, focusing on tile-based and grid-based mapping at tactical combat scale (typically 1” = 5 ft., or 1 hex = 3 feet).
Show full description ▾
Features Vote on or suggest new features
Comments and Reviews Post a comment / review all • positive • negative relevance • date
Categories
Games • Travel & LocationTags
- edit-map
- cartography
- battlemap
- Mapping
List containing MapForge
Worldbuilding ToolsMapForge videos
MapForge
Summary
Our users have written 2 comments and reviews about MapForge, and it has gotten 2 likes
- Developed by Battlegrounds Games LLC
- Proprietary and Freemium product.
- One time purchase (perpetual license) that cost about $30.
- Average rating of 4.5
- 15 alternatives listed
Popular alternatives
View allMapForge was added to AlternativeTo by heruca on May 18, 2018 and this page was last updated Nov 12, 2021.
Having backed it since Kickstarter, I can say that its easy to learn (certainly easier than others) and has a large (huge) amount of free and inexpensive art packages. Even the most costly add-ons (and you don't need them!) are no more than market value.
The updating and use of add-ons are a snap. They have managed to do it in as little as two steps once you've registered the main program. You enter your email and then you press the "download from server" button... thats it! Ease of use for anyone.
Makes great looking maps and layouts for both GM's and players ! Goes from D&D to Sci-fi (and both in some cases) in the click of a few mouse buttons.
I felt there was a need for a tool like this, a need that wasn't being met. So I made it myself.