Hexes NOT Squares?

[Cthulhu's Librarian]

How does this work? By "offset squares", I'm picturing alternating rows of squares set 1/2" off.

Yep, that's exactly right.

Since the offset is the part of hexes I dislike, that seems like a "worst of breed" scenario.

Nah, it's not bad, actually (and for the record, I don't like hexes either). By using squares, you get straight lines (so your dungeon hallway is easy to map along either axis) but the offset allows for easy diagonal calculations and the same spacing as hexes (ie. 6 figures surrounding a square vs. 8 surrounding with a square grid)

Look about 1/2 way down this page for examples: http://www.jsr.com/~fitz/roleplay/props/mapping.html

 

[frankthedm]

4e should be 4e DnD, not Advanced DDM.

Sigged!

 

[Zaukrie]

Given the huge numbers of tiles I own, the fantastic locations maps, worldworks items, and possibly buying some dwarven forge items, I hope they stick to squares.

 

[hafrogman]

I, for one, welcome our new six-sided overlords.

Not really. I don't think you could pull it off. I see the benefits, areas of effect, diagonal movement . . . but there would have to be so many rules for half hexes and quarter hexes, it would be madness.

I think that we'll be sticking with squares, it's imperfect but a lot simpler than the alternatives. Plus . . . gelatinous cube? The monster that evolved to fit graph paper.

 

[francisca]

Though I lack wargamer roots, I love hexes. Squares are for munchkins.

as far as hexes and 4e, who cares? I mean really? If we can play/adapt any edition of D&D to hexes or squares, it doesn't matter what they use in the book. Your friend is nuts if he thinks using hexes to cut off 3e material is a viable strategy.

Then again, looking at some of the whining about hexes, maybe it will, but that will only alienate players, and prevent them from adopting 4e.

 

[frankthedm]

How about we measure distances in 4E?

 

[Lanefan]

Squares.

Most stationery stores don't sell pads of hex paper. They all sell pads of squared paper. That alone is enough to say, stick to squares! Also, the compass has 4 points...

Oh, and for mapping, please make the standard as 10' squares rather than 5'; counting 5' squares out on a module's map to be able to tell the players it's a 90' hallway just takes too long!

Lanefan

 

[Kheti sa-Menik]

There will be a 4th edition. When is still up in the air.

Do you have proof/evidence of this?
I haven't seen any proof that there will be a 4th edition nor has WOTC stated anything as such. All evidence we have is anecdotal.

 

[arscott]

I don't have any more problems with hexes than I do with squares.

Still, WotC will probably avoid squares so they can keep their D&D minis game compatible between editions.

 

[Mercule]

Nah, it's not bad, actually (and for the record, I don't like hexes either).

Eh, it might work. I'm still skeptical, but I'd give it a try.