Roll20 is a service that offers tools for tabletop RPG players, so that games can be organized online.
Foundry Virtual Tabletop (FoundryVTT) is a self-hosted utility for running multiplayer tabletop RPGs.
Some complicated games are borderline unplayable without macros, and many others benefit heavily from their use.
But which virtual tabletop do you choose?
Easy to run any system
Does a ton of work for you.
Price
Roll20 and Foundry operate on two different payment models.
Foundry Virtual Tabletop (FoundryVTT) is a self-hosted application for running multiplayer tabletop RPGs. It supports over 200 game systems and offers features like dynamic lighting, fog of war, and customizable maps.
Roll20 is a subscription service with free and premium versions.
Your group can use Roll20 to run their game without paying anything.
However, many of Roll20’s most useful features are gated behind a monthly subscription.
FoundryVTT doesn’t allow any group to use it for free.
However, this is a one-time fee.when you’ve got Foundry, you have it forever.
Functionality
Technically speaking,these two platforms have most of the same features.
You won’t need to manually set up macros or understand how they work to make it use them.
This comparison makes Foundry’s functionality seem superior, and there are many ways in which this is true.
However, there is an important caveat.
This is a point that bears repeating.
Essentially, Roll20’s functionality is variable.
What you get out of it depends on how much you’re willing to put in.
Tweaking things is finicky and annoying.
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To illustrate, let’s consider some examples.
Say you want to run a pre-published module in D&D 5e or Pathfinder 2e.
In contrast, Roll20 will require you to set more up manually.
In this case, you’re going to get a better experience out of Foundry.
But what if you’re not planning to play a popular system?
What if, for example, you want to playthe excellent SCP Foundation TTRPG, by 26 Letter Publishing.
Foundry does not support this particular game.
In this situation, you’re clearly better off with Roll20.
Of course, no platform can be expected to support every game.
For instance,Queerz is a highly underrated superhero TTRPGthat isn’t explicitly supported by either Roll20 or Foundry.
This means that you’re going to have to set things up yourself.
By contrast, Roll20’s fewer bells and whistles make it more versatile.
Roll20 can give you more or less function depending on how much work you put into it.
FAQ
Do players need Foundry VTT?
Only the Game Master of a given campaign needs to buy FoundryVTT.
Players can enter the campaigns they’re in through their browsers without having to purchase the program.
How much is Foundry vs Roll20?
Foundry requires a one-time payment of $50.
The same amount will get you a year of Roll20 premium.
These tabletop RPGs are made to be inviting to newcomers.
