The RPG Engine

What The RPG Engine is

The RPG Engine is a virtual tabletop for creating roleplaying settings and experiencing them in games. It runs on Windows and macOS, and its world-building tools let users shape terrain and decorate it with props. Characters can be made with the built-in creator or imported from Hero Forge, while play sheets can be customized for a group's requirements. A multi-GM option lets a group hand controls to other players. The Steam Workshop supports sharing maps, characters, special items, and player sheets, and the maker says Workshop sharing will remain free. The maker also describes the interface as useful for brainstorming, storyboarding, visual storytelling, and level-design prototyping. The Base version costs nothing and is intended for people joining a game or trying the product. Builders Edition DLC costs $19.99, paid once and adds tools and assets, Workshop sharing, and the ability to bring one Base player into the party pool. GameMasters Edition DLC costs $39.99, paid once, requires Builders Edition DLC, and allows hosting with endless seats for Base players, who join free. Playing with other users and accessing Workshop require an online connection.

Who it suits

The RPG Engine suits groups that want to build and play in custom roleplaying settings, with tools for terrain, props, characters, and customized play sheets. It can also suit creators using a tabletop interface for brainstorming, storyboarding, visual storytelling, or level-design prototyping.

Limits

The free Base version is intended for joining other games or trying the product. Builders Edition allows one Base player in the party pool; GameMasters Edition, which requires Builders Edition, allows hosting with endless seats for Base players, who join free.

Getting started

1. Visit https://www.polydemons.com/the-rpg-engine.
2. Use the free Base version to try the product or join other games.
3. Choose Builders Edition DLC for additional tools, assets, and Workshop sharing.
4. Add GameMasters Edition DLC if you want to host with endless seats for Base players; it requires Builders Edition.
5. Use Windows or macOS, and connect online to play with other users or access Workshop.

Verdict

Pick The RPG Engine if you want a virtual tabletop for building settings and sharing creations, or need a free Base version to join other games. Look elsewhere if you need online play without an internet connection; play with others and Workshop access require one.