#9 in Toys & Games
Use arrows to jump to the previous/next product

Reddit mentions of Chessex Role Playing Play Mat: MEGAMAT Double-Sided Reversible Mat for RPGs and Miniature Figure Games - 34 1/2in x 48in

Sentiment score: 34
Reddit mentions: 66

We found 66 Reddit mentions of Chessex Role Playing Play Mat: MEGAMAT Double-Sided Reversible Mat for RPGs and Miniature Figure Games - 34 1/2in x 48in. Here are the top ones.

Chessex Role Playing Play Mat: MEGAMAT Double-Sided Reversible Mat for RPGs and Miniature Figure Games - 34 1/2in x 48in
Buying options
View on Amazon.com
or
Useful for nearly every roll playing game (RPG) and miniature game available todayMat is reversible and have both 1in squares on one side and 1in hexes on the other sideChessex mats are made from expanded vinyl to bring you the highest quality mat currently availableChessex Role Playing Play Mat: MEGAMAT Double-Sided Reversible Mat for RPGs and Miniature Figure Games - 34in x 48in
Specs:
ColorGame Mat
Height34.645669256 Inches
Length0.393700787 Inches
Number of items1
Size1 Count (Pack of 1)
Weight1 Pounds
Width48.031496014 Inches

idea-bulb Interested in what Redditors like? Check out our Shuffle feature

Shuffle: random products popular on Reddit

Found 66 comments on Chessex Role Playing Play Mat: MEGAMAT Double-Sided Reversible Mat for RPGs and Miniature Figure Games - 34 1/2in x 48in:

u/Pyrotrout · 29 pointsr/DnD

This is what I bought! Wet erase markers only

Chessex Role Playing Play Mat:... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0015IUAAG?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

u/meatlifter · 16 pointsr/DnD

Also, I recommend a proper battlemat. They're pricey at first, but they last a long time, can improve overall table stuffs, and you can use erasable markers on them without too much trouble (note: red seems to stain a little if left on too long, while the other colors do not).

Look for ones like this (I think by Chessex): good mat

Do not buy the one that looks like this: bad mat

u/flyfart3 · 12 pointsr/dndnext

I think it's this Chessex map, but there different types, prices and sizes, this one is like a tablecloth. Note you cannot use regular whiteboard eraser on it, you need "dry erasers", and then just a damp rag or something to wipe it off at the end of the session (it it's there for longer the color can stick a bit).

u/authorblues · 6 pointsr/rpg

I bought this from Amazon some time ago and it has been a great product. Wet-erase only, but super durable, huge (but not unwieldy), and durable as hell. It rolls up for storage quite simply, and is overall a great buy. They sell smaller ones as well for slightly less. Check them out. I highly recommend them.

u/rabid_scotsman · 6 pointsr/DMAcademy

I really recommend using paper minis if you're on a tight budget. If you have access to photoshop then they are incredibly easy to make from any image you can find for free on google. If not then Printable Heroes is a great resource for cool looking minis. You can contribute a small amount and get access to a ton of them but there are also a bunch of free ones here.

They don’t take long to put together, either. This video shows you the best way to assemble them. I would also ad that I use 3/4 inch binder clips for the base as they fit perfectly on the grid and are a bit cheaper than buying bases.

I also really recommend a Chessex Battle Mat in whatever size you think works for your game. Make sure you also buy wet erase markers as dry erase will seep into these maps and become permanent markings.

As far as landscapes go, I just draw any features of the map that can be seen on the ground on my map. I've never tried it but there are printable folding paper environments that you can make and use. I don't because I don't like having an obstructed view for me or the players.

I hope that helped!

u/dhoonib1 · 6 pointsr/DnD

I use the Chessex Battlemap. Its pretty big about 35x48. Its wet-erase but as long as you don't leave the drawings on it they will wipe off clean.

https://www.amazon.com/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat/dp/B0015IUAAG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1511382060&sr=8-1&keywords=chessex+mat

u/Tired_Dungeon_Master · 5 pointsr/DnD

> Or am I supposed to just describe the rooms? If I should describe them, what if a fight occurs?

You can absolutely play without a map, it's called theatre of the mind. Usually, the DM keeps track of locations and the players ask things like "How far is the closest monster" or "Am I close enough to hit Y" and so on. It's a little abstracted, but some people like it more than maps-and-miniatures. Personally, as I use maps with line drawings of the locations, I give way more detail in descriptive words than my map contains.


> . My question is how you usually make maps (mainly for dungeons). All I have access to are A4 sheets of paper and a printer for those sheets. The maximum amount of squares I get on those are 8x11, which means that I'll have to use several sheets of paper even for small dungeons.

Honestly not unusual if you're home-printing. Personally, I use a large battle mat about the same size as my table surface. This mat has allowed me to draw out full dungeons in most cases, but it's also the size of a medium dining room table. I also have a smaller square battle mat in case the dungeon is too large or I want a specific subsection or another place included in the same session. For instance, I'll draw the keep they start in on the small mat, and the dungeon they're traveling to on the large mat. Then, the keep-mat can even be used to obscure areas they haven't seen within the dungeon-mat, at least for a time. Fog of war can be handled by not drawing the full area ahead of time, or using something like paper or towels to physically cover the mat.


For both, I use dry erase markers for a simple outline of dungeons (Crosshatch in between-walls places where there is no space to exist, for clarities sake), and might include some basic fluff like rock piles, stalagtites/mites, etc. I also have a bunch of clay and cardboard miniature set pieces I use to accent the maps - barrels, fires, rocks, fountains, statues, etc. These bits are my own make, so there's some time involved, but you can buy premade miniature items to use as well, or just forgo the accents entirely. It's not necessary, I just like it.

My setup looks like this, all-told. (Was before I got the big mat, so this is just the smaller one). This one mat contained an entire wing of a 3-part dungeon, enough for a session and a half or so. The next section was a large labyrinth and is why I now own a larger mat.


> they also includd things only the DM is supposed to read anyway, like Trap Locations or Secrets.

Often there are two maps - a DM version and a clean Player version. Alternatively, googling 'placename dungeon map' will usually find you plenty of cleaned up or player-made versions of maps, sometimes better than what's in the actual module.

> To my knowledge, you always need a map for a fight,

As I said earlier, nope. It's easiest for at least the DM to have a map to mark things on themselves, but you can in fact go 100% mapless, and it works just fine. Just have to be used to it, pretty much. If you're not providing a map for your players, as a new DM I'd say keep your own printed map and some little markers like pennies or dimes to track locations so you can be ready with information. Even just some gridlined paper you can draw out as you go is plenty for your own tracking purposes.

u/insanityv2 · 5 pointsr/rpg

I'd go with chessex.

http://www.amazon.com/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat/dp/B0015IQO2O

There's one twice that size for a few dollars over 30.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0015IUAAG

u/dfBishop · 4 pointsr/dndnext

I've been DMing LMoP for a few months now, and I did so much prep work, I got in trouble at my real job for it. I have maps of EVERYTHING as PDFs with notes for every single room.

The upshot of this is that I barely referenced my notes last session because I have it all memorized. But notes are absolutely essential.

And like others have said, dungeons just need maps. My group tried theater of the mind for about two seconds before I went "OH MY GOD, I'll just draw it!" I'd recommend getting a big battle mat for that. It's pricey, but definitely worth it. I have this one, it's fantastic. Gotta be careful to use the right markers, though. But you definitely won't run out of room!

u/Zaorish9 · 4 pointsr/DnD

I just use a Chessex Megamat. Works great for drawing any terrain. I've had TONS of huge, fun battles all over it, drawing and erasing and redrawing easily. I use either scraps of paper for monsters or my friend's miniature collection.

u/Mizaark · 3 pointsr/DnD

Chessex makes an amazing battlemap with squares on one side and hex on the other.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0015IUAAG

u/Sotsie · 3 pointsr/dndnext

Get yourself a chessex map!

u/stranger_here_myself · 3 pointsr/DnD

I'm a big fan of Chessex, it works great as long as you don't mess up and use a permanent pen on it...

For long-term flexibility, I'd recommend getting one of the bigger multi sided ones (like this one). For $33 it's a great buy.

u/Throwaway135124852 · 3 pointsr/DnD

I have been very happy with the Chessex dry erase grid. If you could find wrapping paper with a 1" grid, it would work great.

u/krodren · 3 pointsr/rpg

Gaming carry bag - like the Bag of Holding.

Battle mats, maybe a big one.

d20 socks, cause who doesn't need socks?

One Round T-Shirt would be good - gamers love shirts. Penny Arcade has a bunch. They also have some cool prints that are table gaming related.

Just giving some non-dice suggestions, as I have a crap-ton of dice myself.

u/ConfederacyOfGaia · 3 pointsr/DMAcademy

I played 1e and 2e for many years, and every group I was in always used theater of the mind. When I returned to D&D a year ago, the group I was playing with used a battle mat and minis and it was a revelation for me: I really like being able to see where all the creatures are, and having a good set of wet-erase markers means we can draw anything we need to on the mat. When I started DMing again, I bought a battle mat and a set of markers and it makes things very easy, especially for younger players (one of my groups is 4 11-year-olds). Being able to make a custom mini (using something like HeroForge) means that everyone can get a mini that really expresses their character concept, which helps people get invested in the game. Also, Lego minifigures are almost exactly the right size, which is awesome, and you can print your minis on paper as well (better for monsters, IMO).

Having said all that, Sly Flourish has a really good guide to Theater of the Mind combat and there's a lot to recommend it.

u/hmph_ · 3 pointsr/DnD

TL;DR If you want large, vinyl, hexes, and wet erase: look to Chessex. If you want large-ish, laminated, no hexes, and dry erase: look to Pathfinder. I'd say measure your game space first.

The mat you're most likely talking about is the Chessex MEGAMAT.($30) This is by and large the most popular battlemat on the market. It's vinyl, rectangular (3' x 4'), hex reversible, quality make, but it's wet erase. (You'll probs need to buy wet erase markers) This is also the mat I have. Here's my brief critique: it is larger than I have ever needed, though I will admit I have sometimes been encouraged by the mat's size to make a larger battlefield. It's so large that it barely fits on the table, giving my players little room for their papers, making it difficult for me as a DM to quickly access all parts of the map, and making transporting it a minor annoyance. The wet erase is only slightly annoying, but if you're going to be doing a lot of erasing, you'll quickly tire of the rags and water. However, it is very high quality, plenty big, and terrific if you have the right space and table to use it.

A very similar mat is the regular Chessex Battlemat($22) It's smaller (2' x 2'), vinyl, square, high quality, hex reversible, and still wet erase. Really again a great mat that's very similar to the MEGAMAT, just a little less. . . MEGA.

Another large vinyl one more similar to the MEGAMAT is the Wiz Dice Battle Mat.($32) It shares all the same qualities of the MEGAMAT, but owners have claimed that is does not erase quite as nicely. However, it is a clean white mat, rather than the sort of textured beige of the Chessex mats.

Finally, the most viable dry erase mats are the Evolve Skins battlemats($28) which come in white or beige, are not hex reversible, are laminated, are 3' x 2', and seem to not be entirely dry erase. A better choice would probably be the laminated, 2' x 2.5', dry erase, not hex reversible, Pathfinder battlemats.($13)

I'd recommend measuring your game space, prioritizing what you think are the most important qualities, and then comparing these options that I have presented.

u/thatrotteneggsmell · 3 pointsr/DnD

While the commercial maps might be somewhat expensive, the [Chessex Battlemap] (https://www.amazon.com/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat/dp/B0015IUAAG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1503572042&sr=8-1&keywords=chessex+battlemat) has been our go to for years.

We bought one 5 years ago and it still looks great, the material is soft so it folds easily, and it is easy to clean. $30 for 5 years is totally worth it: Chessex makes high quality stuff.

u/Wonton-Potato · 3 pointsr/DMAcademy

I've got this one in two sizes

Chessex Role Playing Play Mat: MEGAMAT Double-Sided Reversible Mat for RPGs and Miniature Figure Games - 34 1/2in x 48in https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0015IUAAG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_jSZNBb10389Q9

u/Nymean · 3 pointsr/dndnext

For me:

  • Macbook Pro: Acts as my “screen”, though, I roll in front of my players.

  • Google Drive for Initiative tracker, Monster Stats, Music, Campaign notes, name list, Etc.

  • 3 ring binder for maps and a store that I
    hand to my players should they want to go shopping.

  • Chessex Dice + 3 extra D20s from a loosey bin. edit This purple is regal as fuck.

  • My books (DMG, PHB, MM, Volo's) are kept on a side table to be referenced in disputes.


    For Combat:

  • Chessex Battlemat: Larger size means everyone can use it to take notes, remain entertained (read: doodle), track damage on things, etc. Rolls up and stows without taking up a lot of real estate.

  • EXPO wet erase markers, Dollar store spray bottle, Dollar store microfiber cloths.

  • Pathfinder Pawns I print out my own and glue them on.

  • Foam core and cardboard for terrain - Theatre of the mind ain't my bag. Tabletop wargame skillz recycled.


    For my players:

  • G2 Mechanical Pencils

  • Poker chips to track spell slots

  • Assortment of Minis from my table top wargaming days or a pathfinder pawn if they like how it looks better.
u/BobVosh · 3 pointsr/AskGameMasters

Campaigns I run at home I just draw on a [Chessex battlemat] (https://smile.amazon.com/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat/dp/B0015IUAAG/ref=sr_1_5?crid=4WKSOITKESTV&keywords=chessex+battle+mat&qid=1569130255&s=gateway&sprefix=chessex%2Caps%2C218&sr=8-5). Just doodle whatever I need.

I ran a few on d20, which I mostly used a mapgen program. What I want is usually something fairly large so players can flank, move, fly, etc. Like 50x50, most of it can just be wilderness with trees, etc, I just want them to be able to move if they want. I want some interesting terrain features, I want clear, visible lines for cover/and what stuff is. I prefer a theme if possible.

edit I agree with the other guy, NO GRIDLINES. Pain in the ass to deal with those.

u/splepage · 3 pointsr/DnD

We use a chessex mat (like this).

Don't draw the whole dungeon on the mat, just the room(s) combat is happening in.

For the dungeon map, you can have your players draw it on a sheet of paper from your descriptions.

u/maladroitthief · 3 pointsr/DMAcademy

I used this battle mat

Amazon Link

Some rubber cement

Amazon Link

Also some kind of sanded particle board from Lowes/Home Depot. I can't remember what it was called, but 1/8" thick. At the time I was in college and had access to the school's laser table and was able to cut using that. I couldn't see why a table saw wouldn't work though.

I made all the tiles powers of two (Computer engineer, can't help it). If I remember it was like 1x1, 1x2, 1x4, 2x2, 2x4, 2x8, 4x4, 4x8, and 8x8 tiles. You can do any other sizes or increments, that's just what I am most comfortable with.

u/cd83 · 3 pointsr/DMAcademy

I got one of these and I use it all the time. They're meant to be used with wet-erase markers. I usually just draw things out as the party explores. There's lots of ways to go about this, and these mats are highly reusable!

u/seantabasco · 3 pointsr/DnD

I'm happy with this one. It's big but still fits nicely on my table, and has a square grid on one side and a hex on the other, and I generally like the hex better but many times I use the square for an indoor halls-and-corridors type setting.

u/PyroSkink · 2 pointsr/DnD

I bought this product from amazon: https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B0015IUAAG/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

You write on it with wet erase pens (like you use for a OHP). I can draw the dungeon map out ahead of the session and bring the mat along with me. The pen won't come off unless you use a wet cloth, so no worries transporting it. Then I just cover unexplored areas with sheets of paper, removing them as the player move through the dungeon. I find it a lot easier to have all the drawing done before hand, so we don't waste time with me drawing stuff out.

Bonus is that it has hexes on the back, so I can actually have two maps drawn out and ready, or use the reverse for improv maps and encounters which I can sketch out quickly.

Plus it's almost 3x4 foot, so loads of room to draw out a decent sized dungeon!

u/PFS_Character · 2 pointsr/Pathfinder_RPG

If you like drawing maps, buy some grid paper and draw them ahead of time.

If you don't, grab a chessex mat and some wet erase markers.

If I'm drawing during the game, I outline every room's corners and doors on the map's grid beforehand, using dots drawn with a light marker. This way, I can see my markings but the players can't make much sense out of them (unless they want to try); I don't have to count grids but can still quickly draw rooms as people go, connecting the dots as the party advances, without spoiling the map for them. Saves a lot of time versus counting grids at the table.

u/1-Down · 2 pointsr/DnD

I believe I use a Chessex mat, 4'' by 3' I think. It was a touch expensive when I bought it as a poor college kid, but it's lasted for well over a decade and has seen plenty of use.

Here's more or less what I use - http://www.amazon.com/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat/dp/B0015IUAAG/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1368969213&sr=8-2&keywords=chessex+battlemat

Mine doesn't have the hexes on the back and I'm certain I paid more than $30 for it so it looks like prices have come down on them.

I've also seen people make their own, but usually it's out of whiteboard material and I like the ability to roll up the Chessex for storage.

I use Vis-a-Vis wet erase markers for drawing on it. The multiple colors are useful for differentiating terrain and whatnot. Only thing is that you need to erase it each night because if you leave the marker on it for a few days it sort of taints/stains the mat. The stains eventually come out (I think re-writing on the mat with marker must lift the pigment out from the previous use when you clean the new marks), but it's sort of irritating to mess with.

We take picture of battles if we end up having to call time in the middle of a battle due to work the next day.

u/glimmer27 · 2 pointsr/DnD

This has been one of my best friends. This and a couple of wet erase markers and you're golden. Just don't let anyone spill their beer.

u/SmoSays · 2 pointsr/mattcolville

> Should I let them build there own characters, or should I bring pregens?

This is up to you and your players. I’d ask each of them what they’d prefer. Personally, I would have pregens (or ones you’ve made) available as backups.

> As wargamers, we have TONS of minis, but no battlemat. Is there a cheap alternative? Do I really need one? I could pick one up at my LGS, but it'd be a bit more than I'd like to pay atm.

It’s not required. I know plenty of DMs who don’t use a battlemat.

I paid $35 for my mega mat so it depends on your budget. You can get a smaller one for $23.

Standard battle/megamats have 1 in. squares. You can find graph paper with that size squares at hobby lobby type stores or office supplies stores. You can get 8 ½ x 11 on up.

> I don't really want to purchase an adventure, but homebrewing the first game is kind of daunting. I mean, I know these guys would be perfectly happy being dropped in a dungeon and killing every last monster in the place without any kind of motivation whatsoever, but I really want at least some roleplay, if only to see how they react. I'd be grateful for any advice in this regard.

Dm guild is a very good resource for free campaigns or modules.

u/shuaverde · 2 pointsr/DnD

The Chessex ones on Amazon are pretty reliable and ready to clean.

Chessex Role Playing Play Mat: MEGAMAT Double-Sided Reversible Mat for RPGs and Miniature Figure Games - 34 1/2in x 48in https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0015IUAAG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_II0NzbAZG0FAE

u/xjhnny · 2 pointsr/DnD

chessex battle mat
http://www.amazon.com/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat/dp/B0015IUAAG

you need to use wet erase (which is surprisingly hard to find) (crayola washable markers work really well)

mats are cheap and super high quality. I bought two. No regrets

u/Vitamin_Lead · 2 pointsr/FATErpg

I'm not an ultra-light packer by any means, but the dice might be worth their weight because of their intrinsic novelty value and entertainment for kids, who might not really enjoy the tabletop / roleplay if it's way too spartan / basic. I know even my adult friends like the RP experience with some embellishment. I use a roll-up map like this one with some markers to help draw out the situation as we go and some folding paper "figurines."

Maybe use a dice roller app on your phone with a nice animation, but some cheap clear dice or mini-dice might be worth taking.

Also, "ranger beads" or pace-counting beads can pull double duty for keeping count of things. You can use regular coins or currency to sub in for Fate Points and other things.

u/SergejButkovic · 2 pointsr/boardgames

28" 70" is a weird shape. Most playmats are closer to square.

You could get a standard 34"
48" mat (like http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0015IUAAG/) and cut it in half to get two 34" 24" pieces that added lengthwise would be 24" 68" that's not far off from what you're looking for.

The other option is just to get raw material of the type you'd like the surface to have and cut it to shape yourself. You can search for stuff like "poker table felt" and you'll find raw material in the size you'd nee to cut to size.

u/djdementia · 2 pointsr/rpg

I seriously don't understand how this is cost effective considering it's going to cost at least about the same as a battlemat (unless you somehow get the whiteboard for free). If you did get the whiteboard for free that doesn't mean it's a "cost effective solution" that just means it's a "recycled solution". Not only that but the time and effort involved in making the grid, maintaining the grid, and dealing with all that saran wrap makes this far from a cost effective solution.

34" x 48" battle mat $31.64: http://www.amazon.com/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat/dp/B0015IUAAG/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1331743125&sr=8-2

36" x 48" whiteboard $51.88: http://www.amazon.com/UNVSL-Dry-Erase-Melamine-Satin-Finished-Aluminum/dp/B000J0CARW/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1331743143&sr=8-3

Edit: found a cheaper brand whiteboard, still not cheaper than a battle mat of similar size:

36" x 48" whiteboard $35.62: http://www.amazon.com/Universal-Dry-Erase-Melamine-Aluminum-Plastic/dp/B0015ZW7H8/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1331743143&sr=8-6

u/PantsIsDown · 2 pointsr/Dungeons_and_Dragons

Awesome! That's how I play!

Here's a list of things I suggest as a DM:

Chessex Mat
or [Megamat](Chessex Role Playing Play Mat: MEGAMAT Double-Sided Reversible Mat for RPGs and Miniature Figure Games - 34 1/2in x 48in https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0015IUAAG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_KvY4xbHM414K4)
[Vis-A-Vis Markers](Expo Vis-A-Vis Wet-Erase Overhead Transparency Markers, Fine Point, 8-Pack Pouch, Assorted Colors https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00006IFGW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_DwY4xbQVVNKTA) to write on the map
[Starter set of minis](D&D Icons of the Realms: Tyranny of Dragons Starter Set https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00LSZQXSY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_.EY4xbCF5B5AH)
Goblin Minis
Search Reaper Minis on Amazon and you'll find some fun stuff
I also use flat glass marbles as place holders for NPCs that I don't have minis for. They were super helpful when I was first starting.
A graphing notebook and drawing paper
Mechanical pencils and a set of his favorite pens

I can't think of anything else

u/Ymenk · 2 pointsr/DnD

If you're looking for beginner friendly then I have to suggest the 5th edition. Since the core books are still being released it's not as bloated as the other editions. It also helps that the basic rules are available online for free.

To start, you can grab the Starter Set. It includes pre-made characters and an intro adventure (careful, it's notoriously difficult).

For grids, I've fallen in love with the Chessex Megamat. It uses wet-erase markers and is top quality, sturdy stuff.

The last thing you'd need is dice for everybody.

Good luck!

u/MelissaJuice · 2 pointsr/WaterdeepDragonHeist

I'd go with something like this. Make sure to use wet erase markers.

u/Shotdown210 · 1 pointr/DnD

This is what I use: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0015IUAAG/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1492017296&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=battlemat&dpPl=1&dpID=31PxOVAE3WL&ref=plSrch

It works well...Just make sure you use wet erase markers as dry erase doesn't really come off. Made that mistake my first time using it haha

u/selfsatisfiedgarbage · 1 pointr/DnD

Chessex Role Playing Map will make range a lot easier. You can also cover it with some plexi from Home Depot and draw on it with dry erase markers.

u/shokker · 1 pointr/gaming

Check out http://www.amazon.com/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat/dp/B0015IUAAG/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1367587089&sr=8-2&keywords=chessex+mat for a battle mat, you use wet erase markers on it to create a map.

Also /r/rpg is probably the best subreddit out there for tabletop PnP gaming.

u/[deleted] · 1 pointr/Random_Acts_Of_Amazon

Hark! Fellow tabletop RPG enthusiast!

Do you have a chessex battlemat? And of course you'll want some wet erase markers to go with that. There's also the larger MEGAMAT for an extra ~$10.

This is the item I'd like. The scale is a bit off, but I really, really want to use him as a miniature regardless. I've wanted to include a T-Rex in my game since I picked up my first PHB--not that there's a T-Rex in there, I was just always infatuated with the idea of playing/riding a dinosaur, and I designed several characters around various Awakened dinosaurs (pachycephalosaurus and deinonychus were the "most playable") when I first got into D&D.

u/kaiser1245 · 1 pointr/rpg

Sorry, I linked to the Chessex website, but I actually ordered it via Amazon. Here's the actual link.

u/MissSashi · 1 pointr/Pathfinder_RPG

What is your budget, and what do you dislike about the one that comes with the Beginner's Box?

  • Gaming Paper, $4 for one 30" x 12' roll and other options available. Regular paper with a grid printed on it.

  • Paizo Flip mat, double sided with grid both sides, $15 for 24" x 30". The same as the one that came with the Beginner's Box, only blank on both sides, with one lighter than the other. Wet and dry erase.

  • Chessex vinyl mat, double sided with grid and hex, $20 for 23" x 26", or $30 for 34" x 48". Wet erase only.

  • Crystal Caste vinyl mat, double sided with grid and hex, $25 for 24" x 25". Wet erase only.

  • Dungeon Tiles, modular interlocking grid tiles, $32 for nine 10" x 10" tiles and other sizes/sets available. Modular tiles are good because you aren't SOL when combat moves off the side of the grid -- you can just pilfer some tiles from the other side and extend the map. Also other benefits. Dry erase only.

  • Tact tiles, modular interlocking grid tiles, starting $52 for six 10" x 10" tiles. Same idea as the Dungeon Tiles above but sturdier (made with thick plastic rather than chipboard). Wet and dry erase.
u/EarthAllAlong · 1 pointr/DMAcademy

26x23.5 in

34.5x48 in

Make sure you get wet erase markers for these

As for terrain, you don't really need any to start...and its probably better if you didn't, because then you'll over-focus on that. But if you're a big craftsperson, check this guy out.

u/Terrulin · 1 pointr/dndnext
  • To echo everyone else, I would also say start with the starter set because it has everything you need to start, including a pretty nice set of dice. You could get away with this for your first session, but you will probably want some
  • dice This may be your most cost effective way of having a set for everyone, and enough spares for people to grab from for crits and spells like fireball. Everyone will eventually get nicer sets they like more, but this is a good way to start with matched sets. Depending on how happy people are with the player options in the starter set, your next investment will either be the
  • PHB for more player options, spells, items, and guide lines for how things should work. This is far and away the most import of the three books. As most people have said, you will probably get to the point where everyone wants access to this book. During play, you will probably want 2-3 of these at the table.
  • Battle Mat D&D can be played in Theater of the mind, but grid combat makes a lot of rules easier to implement and officiate with a grid. The one I linked is pretty big without being overly huge (there are larger ones), and it is vinyl which makes it durable, and it erases pretty well with good wet erase markers.
  • Miniatures is something else entirely. Most of the groups I play with have more than enough for me to ever have to buy any. Some players will make or buy a mini for his/her character. There are the round cardboard tokens that you could use for cheap. I run a D&D game on Fridays at the school I teach at and have the students use one of their dice as their mini. Monsters are usually balls of playdoh.
  • After finishing of the LMOP (the adventure in the starter's set) you will either want to pick up one of the other adventures like Out of the Abyss or Princes of the Apocalypse. You might need a Monster Manual to go with it. PotA has a digital supplement with the extra monsters, while OotA does not.
  • The DMG is optional really. It is great for magic items, alternative rules you could use, and world building strategies. You'll want a copy eventually, but like the MM, you wont need more than 1.
  • Other things. Look around for things like the Elemental Evil Player's Guide and Unearthed Arcana articles. They have a bunch of free content you could use in your games. They are usually rough drafts so they might be imbalanced, but you might find something you really like in there. There are also tons of homebrew monsters, classes, races, and items if you wanted to expand your game that way.

    angel14995 has a great summary of all the books. This list is more useful as a logical purchasing progression guide.
u/twistedsweet · 1 pointr/DnD

One of the greatest gaming purchases I have ever made was this reversible vinyl mat (1in squares on one side and 1in hexes on the other) called a Chessex megamat. You lay it down on your gaming table and draw on it using wet-erase (not whiteboard) marker, and your party can trudge through the map like a normal grid-map. I'm not sure if this is what you're looking for, bur if you're interested, you heres a link to the amazon page.

u/Evalonne · 1 pointr/DnD

We purchased one of these: https://smile.amazon.com/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat/dp/B0015IUAAG and have used it for years. It works best with wet-erase markers. Every now and then I take a magic eraser to it to remove any residue.

u/ShinyMind · 1 pointr/DnD

My tablemates don't use minis and we aren't always stuck to a map in combat, but some times they come in handy. I'm getting this for my dm. He has a vinyl map now, but it's stained from using the wrong markers.

Chessex Role Playing Play Mat: MEGAMAT Double-Sided Reversible Mat for RPGs and Miniature Figure Games - 34 1/2in x 48in https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0015IUAAG/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_pyKvub0CPDZVM

u/Ornux · 1 pointr/dndnext

Player's Handbook is nice, and so is the Monster Manual.
I like almost everything in the Sword Coast Adventurer's Guide, so I think you should grab it after the two above books. It especially offers very good cantrips that open new character options.


If you have some experience DMing, the Dungeon Master's Guide won't be worth it in my opinion. But if you just got started, you will find some good insight in it. You'll like the guidelines to create Magic Items and new Spells. Anyway, I'd recommand you to read the How to F$&%ing GM series, by The Angry GM. Some people don't like the character, but his advice is gold.

Edit: I forgot about the battlemat. I bought one like this years ago and love it. I prefer hex to squares, but having both is great ♥

u/NightmareRhino · 1 pointr/DungeonsAndDragons

First of all this looks very good, excellent work.

​

I'd like to give you some advice though. I've been a DM for a long time, alternating campaigns with another member for ~7 years now. We have been making minis and set pieces for a long time and have a massive collection now which is awesome for us, but what I have learned is versatility is better than specificity. We use a wet erase mat for the maps and flesh things out using our collection, and the props we use the most are things like trees, treasure chests, some furniture, altars, braziers etc.

​

I absolutely commend your fancy bridge, don't get me wrong I think it's awesome, but how long will the PCs be there and how often will they be crossing rickety bridges over canyons?

​

This is the mat I purchased all those years ago when we started this grand adventure:

https://www.amazon.ca/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat/dp/B0015IUAAG?th=1 (specifically the MEGAMAT)

This mat has been the cornerstone of our fantastical adventures, and is by far and away the best purchase I've made D&D wise. The tales we have woven and ideas conveyed have largely been with the trusty mat, a set of crayola washable markers and a little imagination.

​

My intention is not to discourage you, quite the opposite really. I can already tell you are going to make a great DM just based on the effort you have put into the bridge, keep up the excellent work! This is just some friendly advice that props you can use semi-frequently are the best ones.

​

I wish you luck in your adventures, and if you ever need any DM advice feel free to inbox me anytime.

u/OneCritWonder · 1 pointr/DnD

Whether you want the PCs to use them at all is up to you. You can say that they're too small since they're built for goblins, or that they're terrible quality, etc if you dont want the PCs to use them. Whatever floats your boat.

If you let them use them, the stats can be found on the weapons table in the player's book or the basic PDF.

To know if someone is PROF, just look at what kind of weapon it is on the chart and then check if that person is PROF in those weapons. Scimitar I think is Martial ... shields are easy cause if it doesn't say shields under PROF there ya go.

As for grid maps there are lots of ways to do it. Draw a room at a time, not super worry about straight lines, get yourself a chessex battlemap, get super crafty with rulers and shiz...

u/sistermercy · 1 pointr/Random_Acts_Of_Amazon

First of all, I hope you feel better soon! Sending you some healing mojo from across the internet. We have really similar tastes! Everything I suggested for you is from my own wishlist and I own Firefly too :P

Um... You should get Firefly on blu ray because it's totally shiny!
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B001EN71CW/ref=wl_it_dp_v_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=C7TP629F3Q4H&coliid=IOKMJVXI29RS8

I think you'd like this (They are totally sexy professor mcgonagall shoes) (from my own wishlist):
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0018NK1CK/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=2LZKO69VOZ4I0&coliid=I2T4NN4WXI5QBB&psc=1

Or this (everybody needs an owl) from my own wishlist:
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B008TBYI1E/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=1HD4F38NRXP18&coliid=I2E7RZP7D1GZY0&psc=1

Or this (also from my wishlist, I've had it IT'S AMAZING):
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0078819G6/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=R97NFW4NYGBE&coliid=I3UM82KLUOUAQ

And I'd love this:
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0015IUAAG/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=1UUQNSWS8WPI8&coliid=I1MIN63DA6Y21B

Or This:
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00A5WZ90E/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=1HD4F38NRXP18&coliid=I2TX5DMC2O58NO

Edit: My formatting was stupid.

u/OYKAmi · 1 pointr/Pathfinder_RPG

Purchase a Chessex Reversible Vinyl Battle Mat and some wet erase markers. Draw maps per the book. Read ahead into the book so that you can roleplay some of the key characters into their eventual roles in the story. Have the PCs run into baby goblins in Thistletop nursery to see what they will do with them. Give them some way to heal themselves. They will have a terrible time playing this game, especially if they are 15 point buy characters, without a designated healer or at least an off healer of some kind.


Since your party does not have a designated healer. When you have them fight the goblins, at any point in the story, have them do antic-type things. Have half of the goblins waste their turn each round doing something oblivious like knocking over a carriage or setting flame to a bale of hay. Have one of the goblins kill himself by falling down a well. Have NPCs randomly assist the PCs if it seems like your party is being overwhelmed. This assist doesn't need to come in the form of dice rolls. You can simply say "You see several of the townsfolk ganged up and have beaten one of the goblins in your vicinity."

u/SwingDancerStrahd · 1 pointr/Pathfinder_RPG

I use a Chessex MegaMat for regular maps, and this I do for special occasions.

u/mrbiggbrain · 1 pointr/DnD

D&D Basics (Getting started)


The Absolute Basics


First you will want to grab either the Basic rules (Free), the Starter Set (Cheap), or the Players handbook, Dungeon Masters Guide, and Probably Monster Manual

Then you need to have at least a few items

  • Dice (Phone apps will work if absolutely necessary, or these)
  • Paper & Pencil (for notes)
  • Character Sheet (In the free PDF or an app)

    The starter set is nice because it does a bunch of the work for you, it has an easy to follow adventure, pre-made characters, Dice, and rules for the DM and players. And at half the cost of just the players handbook AND including an adventure, it is an incredible value.

    Once you finish that then looking at at least a players handbook for the extra races, classes, backgrounds, and other things is a good deal. That should let you run free adventures people have put online.

    The DM's guide will let you get deeper into rules and the right way to call them, break them, and make them.

    The monster manual can be a great tool to make better encounters.

    If you want to run a commercial adventure after the one's included in the starter set, "Tales from the Yawning Portal" includes the Sunless Citidel, considered by many to be an excellent adventure for those new to the game and just recently brought up from 3.5e into 5e

    Common Tools of the Trade


    As you start running more complex adventures you are going to want to have a few tools to keep things moving, either as a player or as a DM.

    As a Player


    The bare essentials every players should have are listed above, but most players agree having a few extras can make the game run really quick.

    Spell Cards


    These cards have all the spells available for specific classes or from specific books on really well organized cards that make it easy to set aside your prepared spells and quickly reference all the core details.

    Cleric, Arcane, Ranger, Druid, Bard, Paladin, Martial Powers and Races, Xanathars Guide to Everything

    Binders & Sheet Protectors


    Keeping everything neat and organized can be a huge time saver and make it much easier for you to find what you need. Binders can be a great way to keep your notes and other materials organized. In addition many sheet protectors easily erase dry erase markers making it easy to keep track of spells and other changes without ruining character sheets with constant erasing.

    As a DM


    DMs have their work cut out for them. But a few simple tools can make the game run smooth and leave everyone having that much more fun.

    Index Cards


    A set of index cards can go a long way to speeding up the game. Players can put details on spells or magic items on them. You can prepare loot for the game ahead of time and hand it out allowing players to look over the gear as the game continues. You can also use them to hide portions of a battle map or commerical map to give the effect of fog of war.

    Game Mats


    A game mat let's you make single maps by drawing on them with dry erase or wet erase markers. Many are made of vinyl and can last a long time. Normally they will have either 1" squares or hex shapes.

    Minitures


    These things can be expensive, but giving your game that 3D upgrade and helping players better manage space in a game can be well worth it. You can use actual miniatures (Like those from Reaper), Create custom ones on Hero's Forge, or even just buy some cheap stand in tokens from Game Mash.

    If you just need a cheap way to keep track of positions army men, bottle caps, colored game pieces, and even legos can all play the role.

    No matter what you use, you can pick up colored rubber bands to mark status conditions or other information.

    Where Can I Play?


    You can find tons of places to play D&D.

  • Get together a gaming group.
  • Find a Guild or club in your area. Meetup.com,
  • Most hobby shops and especially comic book and gaming shops offer games, usually Adventure League. WotC offers a tool to find stores here.
  • /r/lfg can be a great way to find others to play online with.
  • Play by Mail sites like RPoL allow you to play by forum post.

    Also:


    Critical Role - Voice actors playing DnD, Matt Mercer (The DM) is an amazing Dungeon Master and shows how the game should be played.

    Matthew Colville - Amazing videos on being a DM, must watch material for every DM. Even when your opinions differ he gives good reasons and great advice.

    Compendiums


    These let you ciew all the free open rules (SRD & Basic Rules) for D&D 5e at no cost.

    Roll20 Compendium - Has all the open rules for the game, so a good source for monsters, items, spells, etc.

    DnDBeyond - A more official source for the content, plus you can buy all the materials released by WotC to use, and has a great character builder.

    Adventures & Maps


    DMsGuild - Tons of free and paid adventures and other materials. The quality can be varying, but many are free and that can be great.

    /r/dndmaps/ - What more can they say, D&D Maps.

    Mike Schley Makes many of the maps for the D&D Adventures.

u/FattyBuumBatty · 1 pointr/DungeonsAndDragons

The standard is 1in squares, this fits all licensed DnD miniatures. I have a large easel pad of 1in grid paper for known fight locations, and an erasable mat from chessex that I use for "off the cuff" situations.

u/CouldBeBatman · 1 pointr/DnD

I use a battlemat and love it. They aren't super cheap, but it's a one time purchase.