Roll20 is a popular online platform for playing tabletop role-playing games (RPGs) like Dungeons & Dragons, Pathfinder, and more. One of the key features of Roll20 is its dynamic mapping system, which allows game masters (GMs) to create and customize maps for their campaigns. However, one common question that arises is how to change the map size in Roll20. In this article, we will delve into the details of adjusting map sizes in Roll20, covering the basics, advanced techniques, and troubleshooting tips.
Understanding Map Sizes in Roll20
Before we dive into changing map sizes, it’s essential to understand how Roll20 handles maps. In Roll20, maps are created using a grid system, where each square represents a specific distance or unit of measurement. The default map size is 20×20 squares, but you can adjust this to fit your campaign’s needs.
Why Change the Map Size?
There are several reasons why you might want to change the map size in Roll20:
- To accommodate large battles: If you’re planning a massive battle with many characters and monsters, you may need a larger map to fit everyone comfortably.
- To create a sense of scale: Adjusting the map size can help create a sense of scale and immersion in your game world. For example, a large map can represent a vast desert or forest, while a small map can represent a cramped dungeon.
- To optimize performance: If you’re experiencing performance issues with your Roll20 game, reducing the map size can help improve loading times and reduce lag.
Changing the Map Size in Roll20
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s move on to changing the map size in Roll20. There are two ways to do this: using the built-in map settings or using the API.
Method 1: Using the Built-in Map Settings
To change the map size using the built-in map settings, follow these steps:
- Log in to your Roll20 account and navigate to the campaign you want to edit.
- Click on the “Maps” tab and select the map you want to resize.
- Click on the “Settings” icon (represented by a gear) in the top-right corner of the map.
- In the “Map Settings” window, click on the “Size” tab.
- Use the “Width” and “Height” fields to set the new map size. You can enter a specific number of squares or use the “Scale” slider to adjust the size.
- Click “Save Changes” to apply the new map size.
Method 2: Using the API
If you’re comfortable with coding, you can use the Roll20 API to change the map size. This method requires some technical expertise, but it offers more flexibility and customization options.
To use the API, follow these steps:
- Log in to your Roll20 account and navigate to the campaign you want to edit.
- Click on the “API” tab and select the “Script Editor” option.
- In the Script Editor, create a new script or edit an existing one.
- Use the
!mapcommand to set the new map size. For example:!map size 50x50 - Save the script and reload the campaign.
Advanced Techniques for Changing Map Sizes
While the built-in map settings and API methods are straightforward, there are some advanced techniques you can use to change map sizes in Roll20.
Using Tokens to Resize Maps
One technique is to use tokens to resize maps. Tokens are small images or objects that can be placed on the map to represent characters, monsters, or objects. By using tokens, you can create a dynamic map that adjusts its size based on the number of tokens on the map.
To use tokens to resize maps, follow these steps:
- Create a new token or edit an existing one.
- Set the token’s “Size” property to a specific value (e.g., 1 square).
- Use the
!tokencommand to set the token’s size. For example:!token size 2 - Place the token on the map and adjust its size as needed.
Using Layers to Organize Maps
Another technique is to use layers to organize maps. Layers are a way to group related maps or objects together, making it easier to manage complex campaigns.
To use layers to organize maps, follow these steps:
- Create a new layer or edit an existing one.
- Add the map you want to resize to the layer.
- Use the “Layer Settings” window to adjust the layer’s size and position.
- Use the
!layercommand to set the layer’s size. For example:!layer size 50x50
Troubleshooting Tips for Changing Map Sizes
If you’re experiencing issues with changing map sizes in Roll20, here are some troubleshooting tips to help you resolve the problem:
- Check the map settings: Make sure you’ve saved the changes to the map settings. Sometimes, the changes may not take effect immediately.
- Check the API script: If you’re using the API, make sure the script is correct and saved. Check the Roll20 API documentation for more information.
- Check the token settings: If you’re using tokens to resize maps, make sure the token’s size property is set correctly.
- Check the layer settings: If you’re using layers to organize maps, make sure the layer’s size and position are set correctly.
Conclusion
Changing the map size in Roll20 is a straightforward process that can be done using the built-in map settings or the API. By understanding the basics of map sizes and using advanced techniques like tokens and layers, you can create dynamic and immersive maps for your campaigns. Remember to troubleshoot any issues that arise, and don’t hesitate to reach out to the Roll20 community for help. With practice and patience, you’ll become a master of map sizes in Roll20.
Additional Resources
For more information on Roll20 and its features, check out the following resources:
- Roll20 Official Documentation: https://roll20.net/wiki/Main_Page
- Roll20 API Documentation: https://roll20.net/wiki/API
- Roll20 Community Forum: https://forum.roll20.net/
By following these resources and practicing your skills, you’ll become a proficient Roll20 user and create amazing campaigns for your players.
What is the default map size in Roll20, and can I change it?
The default map size in Roll20 is 20×20 units, but you can change it to suit your needs. To do this, you’ll need to access the Page Settings menu, which can be found by clicking on the gear icon in the top right corner of the screen. From there, you can adjust the grid size, scale, and other settings to customize your map.
Keep in mind that changing the map size can affect the layout and positioning of objects on the map, so you may need to make adjustments to ensure everything looks and functions as intended. It’s a good idea to experiment with different map sizes and settings to find the one that works best for your game or scenario.
How do I change the map size in Roll20 using the Page Settings menu?
To change the map size in Roll20 using the Page Settings menu, start by clicking on the gear icon in the top right corner of the screen. This will open the Page Settings menu, where you can adjust various settings, including the grid size and scale. Look for the “Grid Size” or “Scale” option and adjust the values as needed to change the map size.
Once you’ve made your changes, be sure to click “Save Changes” to apply them to your map. You can also use the “Preview” button to see how your changes will affect the map before saving them. This can be helpful if you’re unsure how a particular setting will impact your map’s layout or appearance.
Can I change the map size in Roll20 using the keyboard shortcuts?
Yes, you can change the map size in Roll20 using keyboard shortcuts. To do this, press the “+” or “-” keys on your keyboard to zoom in or out, respectively. You can also use the “Ctrl + +” or “Ctrl + -” shortcuts to zoom in or out more quickly.
Keep in mind that using keyboard shortcuts to change the map size will only adjust the zoom level, not the actual grid size or scale. If you need to make more precise adjustments, it’s best to use the Page Settings menu. However, keyboard shortcuts can be a convenient way to make quick adjustments on the fly.
How do I reset the map size in Roll20 to its default settings?
To reset the map size in Roll20 to its default settings, open the Page Settings menu by clicking on the gear icon in the top right corner of the screen. From there, look for the “Reset” or “Default” button, usually located at the bottom of the menu.
Clicking the “Reset” or “Default” button will restore the map size to its original settings, which is 20×20 units. This can be helpful if you’ve made changes to the map size and want to start over or if you’re experiencing issues with the map’s layout or appearance.
Can I change the map size in Roll20 for a specific page or campaign?
Yes, you can change the map size in Roll20 for a specific page or campaign. To do this, open the Page Settings menu and adjust the grid size and scale settings as needed. These changes will only apply to the current page or campaign, and will not affect other pages or campaigns.
Keep in mind that if you want to apply the same map size settings to multiple pages or campaigns, you’ll need to make the changes individually for each page or campaign. However, this allows you to customize the map size for each specific scenario or game, which can be helpful for complex or multi-part campaigns.
How do I ensure that my map size changes are saved in Roll20?
To ensure that your map size changes are saved in Roll20, be sure to click the “Save Changes” button after making adjustments in the Page Settings menu. This will apply the changes to your map and save them for future use.
Additionally, you can use the “Autosave” feature in Roll20, which will automatically save your changes at regular intervals. This can be helpful in case you forget to save your changes or if you experience any issues with the platform.
What are some common issues that can occur when changing the map size in Roll20?
Some common issues that can occur when changing the map size in Roll20 include objects becoming misaligned or distorted, or the map’s layout becoming disrupted. To avoid these issues, it’s a good idea to make small adjustments to the map size and test the results before making larger changes.
Additionally, you can use the “Undo” feature in Roll20 to revert any changes that don’t work out as intended. This can be helpful if you’re experimenting with different map sizes and need to try out different settings.