Grids are used for marking token distance and location in many TTRPGs and board games. While many more inventive uses have been created by our community for their own games, this article will go over the different types of grids available, so you can decide which works best for you.
Grid Options and Alignment
All grid options are available for each page separately and can be accessed via the "Grid" category of the Page Settings menu. You can also determine a default grid for any newly created pages by configuring them with the Default Settings tool from the out-of-game settings menu.
To change the size and scale of the grid, these options are also available in the Page Settings menu and allow for pixel perfect adjustments to match the size and scale of any map.
Roll20 also offers a variety of tools to make alignment of maps faster and easier which are further explained here: Sizing and Aligning Maps
No Grid
You can disable the grid for any map by toggling the Grid slider from on to off. This will hide the grid lines on the map as well as prevent any "snap to grid" functionality.
This option is great for applications where a still image or scenery is being provided or in situations where very granular movements or measurements are required.
Square Grid
This is the default grid style. It is great for 2D bird's eye view maps and encounters.
Hex Grid (Vertical and Horizontal)
Hex maps are a hexagonal grid that can either stretch Horizontally (H) or Vertically (V) across your map. They are great for larger area maps and board games. With Hex grids, you can also display labels in each of the cells for easy communication mid-session.
Dimetric & Isometric
Isometric grids are a great way to bring a three-dimensional feel to your encounters. There are two types of isometric grids available to choose from: Dimetric and Isometric.
- With a Dimetric grid, the top and bottom tile angles are 126.87 degrees. It works great for traditional pixel art styles from video games.
- With an Isometric grid, the top and bottom angles of the tiles are set at 120 degrees, making it convenient to utilize true isometric angle tools in art applications for map creation.