Roll20, the popular virtual tabletop platform, offers a wide range of features to enhance your online gaming experience. One of these features is the grid system, which allows you to create a tactical map for your game. However, there may be times when you want to disable the grid, either to create a more free-form game environment or to focus on role-playing aspects of the game. In this article, we will explore the different ways to get rid of the grid in Roll20, depending on your specific needs and preferences.
Understanding The Grid System In Roll20
Before we dive into the methods for disabling the grid, it’s essential to understand how the grid system works in Roll20. The grid is a fundamental feature of the platform, allowing you to create a square or hexagonal grid on your map. This grid can be used to measure distances, determine line of sight, and even automate certain game mechanics.
The grid system in Roll20 is highly customizable, allowing you to adjust the size and shape of the grid to suit your game’s needs. You can also toggle the grid on and off, depending on whether you need it for a particular scene or encounter.
Why Disable The Grid In Roll20?
There are several reasons why you might want to disable the grid in Roll20. Here are a few examples:
- Free-form gameplay: If you’re running a game that focuses more on role-playing and storytelling, you might not need the grid at all. Disabling it can help you create a more immersive game environment that focuses on character interactions and narrative.
- Dynamic combat: If you’re running a game with complex combat mechanics, you might find that the grid gets in the way. Disabling it can allow you to focus on the action and movement of the combatants, rather than worrying about precise grid measurements.
- Custom maps: If you’re using a custom map that doesn’t require a grid, you might want to disable it to avoid cluttering up the screen.
Method 1: Toggling The Grid On And Off
The simplest way to get rid of the grid in Roll20 is to toggle it on and off using the grid toggle button. This button is located in the top toolbar of the Roll20 interface and looks like a small grid icon.
To toggle the grid on and off, follow these steps:
- Log in to your Roll20 account and navigate to the game you want to play.
- Click on the grid toggle button in the top toolbar.
- If the grid is currently on, clicking the button will turn it off. If the grid is currently off, clicking the button will turn it on.
Note that toggling the grid on and off only affects the current game session. If you want to disable the grid permanently, you’ll need to use one of the other methods described below.
Method 2: Disabling The Grid In The Game Settings
Another way to disable the grid in Roll20 is to adjust the game settings. This method allows you to disable the grid permanently, so you don’t have to worry about toggling it on and off every time you play.
To disable the grid in the game settings, follow these steps:
- Log in to your Roll20 account and navigate to the game you want to play.
- Click on the “Settings” button in the top toolbar.
- In the Settings menu, click on the “Game Settings” tab.
- Scroll down to the “Grid” section and toggle the “Enable Grid” switch to the “Off” position.
- Click “Save Changes” to save your new game settings.
Note that disabling the grid in the game settings will affect all future game sessions. If you want to re-enable the grid, you’ll need to go back into the game settings and toggle the switch back to the “On” position.
Method 3: Using a Custom Map with No Grid
If you’re using a custom map in Roll20, you might not need to disable the grid at all. Instead, you can create a map that doesn’t include a grid, and use that map for your game.
To create a custom map with no grid, follow these steps:
- Log in to your Roll20 account and navigate to the game you want to play.
- Click on the “Maps” button in the top toolbar.
- In the Maps menu, click on the “Create New Map” button.
- In the Map Editor, click on the “Grid” tab and toggle the “Enable Grid” switch to the “Off” position.
- Create your custom map as desired, without a grid.
- Save your map and use it for your game.
Note that creating a custom map with no grid requires some technical expertise and artistic skill. If you’re not comfortable creating your own maps, you might want to use one of the other methods described above.
Conclusion
Disabling the grid in Roll20 can be a powerful way to enhance your online gaming experience. Whether you’re looking to create a more free-form game environment, focus on role-playing and storytelling, or simply get rid of the grid for a particular scene or encounter, there are several methods you can use to achieve your goals.
By following the steps outlined in this article, you can toggle the grid on and off, disable it in the game settings, or create a custom map with no grid. Whichever method you choose, you’ll be able to create a more immersive and engaging game environment that meets the needs of your players and enhances your overall gaming experience.
Remember, the grid is just one of many features in Roll20, and disabling it can help you unlock new possibilities for your game. So don’t be afraid to experiment and try new things – and happy gaming!
What Is The Grid In Roll20 And Why Would I Want To Disable It?
The grid in Roll20 is a feature that allows players to move their characters and tokens around a virtual tabletop in a structured and organized way. It’s useful for tactical combat and strategic gameplay. However, some players and game masters may find the grid restrictive or unnecessary for certain types of games or scenarios.
Disabling the grid can give players and game masters more freedom to move their characters and tokens around the tabletop in a more fluid and dynamic way. It can also be useful for games that don’t require tactical combat or strategic movement, such as role-playing heavy games or games that focus on exploration and storytelling.
How Do I Disable The Grid In Roll20?
To disable the grid in Roll20, you’ll need to access the Page Settings menu. You can do this by clicking on the “Page Settings” button, which is usually located at the top of the screen. From there, you can toggle the grid on or off by clicking on the “Grid” checkbox.
Once you’ve disabled the grid, you can move your characters and tokens around the tabletop freely, without being restricted by the grid’s structure. You can also use other features, such as the “Snap to Grid” option, to help you move your characters and tokens around the tabletop in a more precise way.
What Are The Benefits Of Disabling The Grid In Roll20?
Disabling the grid in Roll20 can give players and game masters more freedom to move their characters and tokens around the tabletop in a more fluid and dynamic way. It can also be useful for games that don’t require tactical combat or strategic movement, such as role-playing heavy games or games that focus on exploration and storytelling.
Additionally, disabling the grid can help to create a more immersive and interactive gameplay experience. Without the grid, players and game masters can focus more on the game’s story, characters, and setting, rather than being restricted by the grid’s structure.
Are There Any Drawbacks To Disabling The Grid In Roll20?
One potential drawback to disabling the grid in Roll20 is that it can make it more difficult to measure distances and movements. Without the grid, players and game masters may need to use other methods, such as measuring tools or estimates, to determine how far characters and tokens can move.
Another potential drawback is that disabling the grid can make it more difficult to keep track of character and token positions. Without the grid, players and game masters may need to use other methods, such as labels or markers, to keep track of where characters and tokens are located on the tabletop.
Can I Still Use Other Roll20 Features If I Disable The Grid?
Yes, you can still use other Roll20 features even if you disable the grid. Roll20 has a wide range of features that can be used in conjunction with or independently of the grid. For example, you can still use the “Token” feature to create and move characters and tokens around the tabletop, even if the grid is disabled.
You can also still use other features, such as the “Drawing” tool, to create maps and other visual elements for your game. Additionally, you can still use the “Chat” feature to communicate with other players and the game master, even if the grid is disabled.
How Do I Re-enable The Grid In Roll20 If I Need It Again?
To re-enable the grid in Roll20, you can simply go back to the Page Settings menu and toggle the “Grid” checkbox back on. This will re-enable the grid and allow you to use it again for tactical combat and strategic movement.
You can also adjust the grid’s settings, such as the size and shape of the grid cells, to customize it to your needs. Additionally, you can use other features, such as the “Snap to Grid” option, to help you move your characters and tokens around the tabletop in a more precise way.
Are There Any Alternative Methods For Achieving Grid-like Functionality In Roll20?
Yes, there are alternative methods for achieving grid-like functionality in Roll20, even if you disable the grid. For example, you can use the “Drawing” tool to create a custom grid or map for your game. You can also use the “Token” feature to create custom tokens that can be moved around the tabletop in a grid-like way.
Additionally, you can use other features, such as the “Measure” tool, to measure distances and movements on the tabletop. You can also use other methods, such as labels or markers, to keep track of character and token positions on the tabletop.