Hexes or Squares?

[interwyrm]

Which do you prefer, and why do you prefer it?

I think I like hexes more, but I haven't really played with them yet. I think that it tackles diagonal movement better and just feels better as far as how many creatures can surround another creature.

 

[The_Universe]

I prefer hexes or offset squares.

 

[Rodrigo Istalindir]

Squares. Not worth the hassle of converting, plus my Tact-tiles use squares.

 

[orsal]

hexes

Hexes, unless the action takes place in a confined rectangular space.

On a square grid, movement that isn't in a cardinal direction seems to be modelled very awkwardly by a mix of cardinal-direction and diagonal steps. As an added benefit, it's natural for beings not specifically organized for a different pattern to coalesce into something resembling a hexagonal array, since that's the most compact way to pack roundish objects.

 

[The_Gneech]

I feel that hexes provide a more "organic" feel to movement, and are easier to go in all directions with a 1-to-1 ratio, rather than the 1-to-1.5 you get moving diagonally with squares. Plus, I first started using combat maps with the HERO System, so hexes are what I'm used to.

In practice, tho, I can do either.

-The Gneech

 

[Snapdragyn]

Squares.

I find the 'hexes are easier for diagonals' rule odd. Hexes simply switch the 4 cardinal directions + 4 diagonal directions for 6 total directions; you may be able to move in a 'true' diagonal, but try moving in a 'true' line directly sideways -- hello, zigzag!

 

[interwyrm]

Maybe we should just tie a move string, and a combat reach string to our minis and use a freeform map?

 

[Obscure]

Squares, because the PHB and DMG tell me so.

It's not that important to know where creatures are to within an accuracy of less than 2 feet, so squares work fine.

 

[Space Coyote]

I would prefer Hexes, however squares are better for dungeons and dragons because of the frequent indoor locales. Hexes dont translate well with a lot of square rooms and rectangular halls, etc. I think that Hexes would be better for a large or outdoor area.

 

[SpiralBound]

Maybe we should just tie a move string, and a combat reach string to our minis and use a freeform map?

I used that method once a few years ago in a game and it works better than you'd think! Granted, contructing the measuring string can be a bit tedious, but once prepared it is quite quick and easy to use. It also has the advantage of inately solving line of sight and cover issues...

Now you've got me wondering if I have some suitable string around the house!