Posted on behalf of John Grigsby, d20 Magazine Rack Staff Reviewer
Initiative Round
Map Folio 3-D is a role-playing game supplement from Wizards of the Coast. This 32-page full-color folio was developed by Dennis Kauth and Todd Gamble and features graphic design by Trish Yochum. The cover is a photograph of the completed village against a nicely detailed background. Map Folio 3-D retails for $9.95.
Map Folio 3-D is unlike the previous Map Folio products in that, as the name implies, it forms a three-dimensional stand-up diorama when complete. The materials contained within this folio are sufficient to create a cottage, a section of city wall, a tower, a medieval inn, a smithy, and an outbuilding. The instructions are easy-to-follow and are along the lines of “fold along dashed line” and “glue tab A to flap B.” All the buildings are scaled for use with 30mm figures, such as the official Dungeons and Dragons Miniatures.
Critical Hit
A set like this makes it easy and fairly cost-effective to create a small village that can be assembled in the matter of a few hours that can add a lot to a game session. The buildings are nicely detailed and printed on stiffened cardstock in full color. A few hours work results in a nice diorama to use with your favorite fantasy role-playing game.
Critical Fumble
On the other hand, the scope of the village is fairly limited. The section of city wall is just that, a section about 8 inches long. With the acquisition of several sets and some suspension of disbelief, you can create a small walled village, but otherwise, your battles are going to have to be skirmishes. Also, the fact that the models are just stiffened cardstock makes long-term usage and transportation an issue.
Coup de Grace
For most game sessions, this folio can add a little bit of realism, and the price is right for what you receive. I can even envision a D&D Miniatures scenario where these buildings replace dungeon tiles on the mapboard. For more hard-core miniature gamers, however, you’re better off going the usual route and purchasing a more durable material to make your models.
Final Grade: B+