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MapTool

rptools.net

Free plan WindowsmacOSLinux
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Spec score 7.7 #14 of 28 in Virtual Tabletop Software

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 keeps it independent of any particular game system. Visibility controls include dynamic lighting, vision, fog of war and topology tools that limit what players can see. The application can replace paper, battle mats and dice, and its scripting language and macros can automate game activities. Macros can call REST services, including the documented Syrinscape example for playing sounds to connected players. MapTool is an installed application rather than a browser service and does not rely on a remote server; storage depends on available disk space. It runs on Linux, macOS and Windows. The maker provides forums, Discord, tutorials and a wiki. Version 1.18.6 is listed as released October 30, 2025, with stable and development builds available. Complex calculations and rolls require campaign properties and code macros.

Spec sheet

Product
MapTool is a virtual tabletop for creating detailed maps and replacing pen, paper, battle mats, and dice.Read 8 Oct 2026 · rptools.net
Integrations
MapTool macros can call REST services, and the maker documents using Syrinscape’s REST API to play sounds for connected players.Read 8 Oct 2026 · rptools.net
Support
The maker points users to its forums, Discord, tutorials, and wiki for questions and documentation.Read 8 Oct 2026 · rptools.net
Maker
RPTools began as an umbrella project to house MapTool and describes the project as open source and community contributed.Read 8 Oct 2026 · rptools.net
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.Read 8 Oct 2026 · rptools.net
Customization
MapTool includes its own scripting language and macros that can automate game activities.Read 8 Oct 2026 · rptools.net
Game systems
MapTool is game system agnostic and can accommodate maps, square or hex grids, tokens, and images.Read 8 Oct 2026 · rptools.net
Local app
MapTool is not browser-based and does not depend on a remote server; storage is limited by available disk space.Read 8 Oct 2026 · rptools.net
Map features
It supports dynamic lighting, vision, fog of war, and topology tools that can limit what players see.Read 8 Oct 2026 · rptools.net
Notable limitation
Automating calculations and complex rolls requires campaign properties and code macros.Read 8 Oct 2026 · rptools.net
Online play
Its integrated server connects players over the internet.Read 8 Oct 2026 · rptools.net
Release status
The MapTool page lists version 1.18.6, released October 30, 2025, and says stable and development builds are available.Read 8 Oct 2026 · rptools.net
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.Read 8 Oct 2026 · rptools.net

Plans and prices

MapTool Free Free and open source · installable app for Windows, macOS, and Linux Read 8 Oct 2026 · rptools.net

Every MapTool plan and price →

Strong points and limits

Strong points

  • Free and open source
  • Integrated server for online play
  • Dynamic lighting and fog of war
  • Linux, macOS and Windows support
  • REST-capable scripting macros

Limits

  • No browser-based version
  • No mobile apps
  • Complex rolls require code macros
  • Storage depends on disk space

Who it suits

MapTool suits tabletop groups and game masters who want a free local virtual tabletop with online connections. It also fits users comfortable configuring macros for advanced calculations or automation.

Verdict

MapTool provides broad map and visibility tools in a local, free virtual tabletop. Its game-system-neutral design is flexible, but advanced automation requires campaign properties and code macros.

Where Specifiction places it

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