Tools & Platforms
Roll20
Virtual tabletop (VTT)
English
Free
Roll20 is the most widely used browser based virtual tabletop in the world, launched in 2012 following a successful Kickstarter campaign. Developed by Riley Miller, Nolan T. Jones, and Richard Zayas, it was designed to break down the barriers to tabletop gaming by requiring zero installation and offering a robust free to play tier. It remains the industry leader in total user base, hosting millions of games across nearly every imaginable tabletop system.
Description
Roll20 is the "everyman" of virtual tabletops, prioritizing accessibility and ease of use. Because it runs entirely in the cloud, players and Game Masters can start a session in seconds from any modern web browser. It features an integrated marketplace where users can purchase official rulebooks, adventures, and art packs that integrate directly into their campaigns. While it offers advanced features like dynamic lighting, its primary appeal is its massive community and the simplicity of its "pick up and play" nature.
System Overview & Key Features
No Installation Required
Unlike many of its competitors, Roll20 requires no software downloads or server configuration. The Game Master simply creates a room on the website and shares a link. This makes it the ideal choice for groups with varying levels of technical expertise.
Integrated Character Sheets
Roll20 features thousands of community and official character sheets that handle the math for you. Clicking an attribute or a weapon on your sheet automatically sends the roll to the chat window, applying modifiers and calculating critical hits instantly.
The Roll20 Marketplace
The platform boasts the largest digital storefront in the industry. You can buy modules for D&D, Pathfinder, Call of Cthulhu, and more, which come pre loaded with maps, tokens, and journals, drastically reducing a Game Master's preparation time.
Dynamic Lighting and Layering
Subscribers gain access to a powerful lighting system that restricts what players can see based on their character's line of sight. The Game Master can easily manage different layers for maps, tokens, and hidden notes that only they can see.
Built in Video and Voice
Roll20 includes its own integrated WebRTC video and voice chat system, allowing groups to see and hear each other without needing to run third party software like Discord alongside their game window.
Jumpgate Technology
Introduced in 2024 and 2025, the "Jumpgate" update overhauled the core engine to provide a much smoother, high performance experience. It improved frame rates, reduced loading times, and modernized the interface to compete with newer, hardware accelerated platforms.
Additional links
roll20.net - Official Roll20 website and Virtual Tabletop
marketplace.roll20.net - Official Roll20 Marketplace for assets and modules