What’s the best VTT (Virtual Tabletop) for you?

Written by: Alex LeFort

Choosing the best VTT (Virtual Tabletop) for you can dramatically enhance your TTRPG experience. Whether you're a game master or a player, the digital tools at your disposal can make setting up, playing, and managing your games easier and more immersive. Finding the best VTT depends on your preferences: how much you value customization vs. ease of use, premium vs. low or no-cost features, and your appreciation of tactical vs. narrative focus. 

Here, we’ll compare popular VTTs: Roll20, Foundry VTT, Owlbear Rodeo, and Alchemy VTT, highlighting their features, pricing, and what sets each apart to help you make the best decision for your group. Each has its charms, but for those who revel in rich narratives and lush visuals, one platform might just change the way you play.

Roll20: The Old Guard

We’ll start with the veteran in the scene. Roll20 has been around the longest of the VTTs on this list and is known for its accessibility and extensive support for different game systems like Dungeons & Dragons, Pathfinder, and more. It offers a comprehensive set of features, including automated character sheets, dynamic lighting (for premium users), and an integrated marketplace with a vast selection of maps, tokens, and modules. Roll20's API access for pro users allows for extensive customization and automation, making it popular among tech-savvy gamers and developers. The platform also includes video and voice chat functionality, reducing the need for external communication tools. Plus, with built-in voice and video chat, it can be a one-stop-shop for online gaming if your group doesn’t use alternative tools like Discord. 

Foundry VTT: The Customizer’s Dream

Then there’s Foundry VTT, a powerhouse of customization. This one's a bit different because it's a one-time purchase that you run on your own hardware. No subscriptions here! Foundry is a paradise for those who love tweaking and tuning, offering advanced features like a sophisticated fog of war, dynamic lighting, and extensive mod support through an active community so that players have total control over their gaming environment. It’s feature-rich, but with that comes a learning curve that is steeper than any of the other VTTs on this list. 

Owlbear Rodeo: Simple, Feature-Light

Owlbear Rodeo keeps it simple and fast. This VTT is all about getting you into the game without fuss or frills. It’s free, requires no accounts, and you won’t need to install anything. Owlbear Rodeo focuses on the essentials—maps and tokens—making it ideal for those spur-of-the-moment games, introducing newbies to the world of TTRPGs, or for those who are happy to play their games with only the absolute necessities of digital aid.

Alchemy VTT: A New Wave of Storytelling

Alchemy VTT differentiates itself by focusing on a narrative-first approach, integrating multimedia elements such as animated backgrounds, music, and sound effects to enhance the storytelling experience. It's designed to be both intuitive and beautiful, with a user-friendly interface that makes game management straightforward while providing a cinematic experience for your group unmatched by the other VTTs on this list. Alchemy also offers unique features like streamer mode, which integrates seamlessly with broadcasting tools for live sessions, making it ideal for streamers and content creators. The platform supports both a free version and a paid subscription, which unlocks additional features like unlimited game slots and extensive world-building tools.

Comparisons at a Glance

Finding Your Match

If you thrive in a richly customizable environment and want total control, choose Foundry VTT.

If simplicity and quick gameplay setup are what you need, Owlbear Rodeo is your go-to.

If your adventures are enhanced by robust features and broad accessibility, Roll20 has you covered.

Alchemy VTT is the best VTT for playing TTRPGs with compelling narratives and visually captivating experiences, where every detail enriches the story. Alchemy VTT’s seamless integration with our evocative maps elevates the artwork, meaning your games are not just played, but truly experienced.