Battlegrounds: RPG Edition vs GameScape

Battlegrounds: RPG Edition (BRPG) is downloadable virtual tabletop software for running pen-and-paper roleplaying games online or offline on macOS and Windows. It is designed to work with any RPG rules system or genre. Groups can use battle maps with optional square or hex grids, move digital miniatures and props, and reveal explored areas with Dynamic Fog of War that accounts for light and special vision. Its dice roller supports standard and polyhedral dice, while the configurable Turn Sequencer tracks turns and can keep character stats. Built-in text chat includes group and private conversations, in-character and out-of-character modes, aliases, macros, and exportable logs. Users can supply maps and artwork or use the maker’s free and commercial artpacks and digital game conversions. BRPG also supports LAN and online games, though users provide their own internet service. A free Demo has usage limits; one-time paid licenses start at 14.00 USD. The maker says the programs remain supported but are no longer being developed or updated.

GameScape is a shared, real-time online map for tabletop role-playing games. It gives a group a digital surface for marking maps and moving tokens, similar to grid paper with physical pieces. The service runs on the web and supports Android and iOS. It is designed as a second screen and supports mobile, touch, and stylus input. Players can open a map from its URL without an account, while the map creator or game master needs an account with a verified email address. Each account includes a demo map and hand-drawn tutorial. Token trails report total movement rounded to the nearest five feet. Image uploads can provide a background layer. GameScape concentrates on mapping and drawing rather than character sheets or dice rollers. Player drawing tools have been described as a possible future feature. The Free plan costs nothing, and the current feature set is intended to remain free.