Good Mapping Software

[was]

I'm looking for a novice-friendly mapping program for a campaign. The only one that I have ever used was the one that came in the DnD 2nd edition character generator. It was lost with a previous computer. I'd appreciate recommendations from folks who have experience building their own campaign worlds..Thanks..

 

[Nytmare]

I'm not well versed in novice-friendly, but I am well versed in where to trawl for help - http://www.cartographersguild.com

 

[3catcircus]

It depends upon what you want to do.

There are plenty of tools to bash together quick battle maps, but if you want power and flexibility, there is only one. Campaign Cartographer. While novice-friendly due to lots of tutorials and a very active community, the learning curve is steeper than a Microsoft Paint or tile-based tool since it is essentially a CAD program in disguise.

 

[marquisdean]

Did you got a novice-friendly mapping program?

 

[was]

not yet..still researching programs

 

[enrious]

If hexes are your thing (and I think hexes are novice-friendly), then check out Hexographer - http://www.hexographer.com/free-version/

 

[Hand of Evil]

How I view mappers, you get out what you put in.

IF you take the time to learn the programs and to do the learning curve via the instructions the best mapper out is Campaign Cartographer but that does not seem to be for everyone. NBOS Fractal Mapper less of a learning curve but does excellent maps. Then you have the Photoshop or other paint program mappers, still has a learning curve but makes beautiful maps.

I tell everyone download the demos and check out what software is going to fit your needs and how you want to map. Each person is different and what works for me may not work for you.

And do check out: http://www.cartographersguild.com