How do you use battle maps in your play-by-post games?

[airwalkrr]

I've seen a number of different methods of using battle maps in play-by-post games and other games that do not necessarily take place in real time. One option I've seen used fairly frequently is a publicly accessible Google Docs spreadsheet, allowing players to make modifications on their turn. But such a spreadsheet has its limitations. I know of no way to integrate graphics, such as overlaying a grid over a pre-drawn map. Players are usually limited to using letters to represent their characters and the GM is likewise limited. Sometimes it can be difficult to differentiate between walls and traversible terrain.

Another option is for the GM to use mapping software and updating the map himself as combat progresses. This has the advantage of allowing for a better graphical presentation of the map, but forces players to "imagine" their tactical movement until the GM updates the map and uploads the latest changes.

I have heard of Maptools, but that seems to be designed with the intent of being used in conjunction with a real-time game.

I am looking for something in the way of a happy medium, something that allows a modicum of decent graphical presentation while still allowing players the freedom to make alterations to indicate their characters' movements. So what methods or tools do you use for battle maps in play-by-post campaigns and other games that are not played using a chat server or other real-time based gaming environment?

 

[airwalkrr]

Got pushed to page 2 with no replies so bumping it. Anyone have thoughts?

 

[SkidAce]

I use Campaign Cartographer to make maps, and Map Tool to add icons and players and run init.

But I post static exported screenshots after each player's turn or so. This defeats your request of having the players move their icons.



The benefit of play by post is "posting when you can" in my mind, and I haven't had any success with documents used simultaneously by multiple payers in that environment.

So make tools tracks the combat and positioning, and the players post descriptions of what they choose to do, based on the grid and map they can see.


Here is an example....

 

[airwalkrr]

That's a nice map. I haven't checked out Campaign Cartographer in a while. I usually use maps I find on the internet because it saves time.

As another question for folks out there who do PBP, particularly from the player's point of view, how do you like to see maps done for tactical combat? Assuming the options are limited to the following two, do you prefer something more low-res where you can alter the document to move your character such as a Google Docs spreadsheet, or do you prefer a more colorful and detailed map which the DM alters whenever he posts?

 

[GlassEye]

Sounds like what you need is Ditzie. It is a mapping site that allows you to create maps and stores them in a unique address. Players can access and manipulate the map then post the new link in their post. I've just started using it as a player but haven't used it as a DM so I can't tell you how easy it is to set up. You can see it in use here in Unwanted Farmhands if you would like to take a look (I think the DM talks about how to use it in the first post of that game thread).

As a player I don't like the very low-res maps that can be made in a spreadsheet. I much prefer something like SkidAce's map above for the nice visuals or something like Ditzie where the images can be pretty nice but allow manipulation.

 

[airwalkrr]

Thanks for the links Glasseye. That is something I will have to check out.