I wasn't really sure whether I should write a review for this software or not - especially after I've initially struggled with using it and at first, found it largely un-intuitive. BUT... a recent campaign which I am going to run for our D6 based Star Wars virtual tabletop group has inspired me to give Virtual Battlemap another try, and so here I am ... attempting to do just that and give the program an unbiased review.
First off, this is a settings builder. It is a software that can help you as a GM (or a 3d visual artist) build a variety of places that make great visual aids in depicting fantasy role-playing scenarios. Now that I've had several hours to tinker with it, I can see that it is a lot like online LEGO - and like LEGO, it comes with a variety of DLCs or 'sets' that you can apply in creating a stunning visual of your game or adventure setting.
True to its description, VB is a program that will help you build tabletop rpg maps in virtual space and then export them as high quality images for live gaming purposes (whether tabletop or online play.) Exporting these maps for either of the aforementioned purposes can utilize high quality resolution, although I have only had the chance to test the online option, so far (given that our group only does virtual tabletop gaming, we do not have much use for the hard copy print outs).
I have to say that I was very pleased with the results; the lighting module which can change the ambiance of your setting in a flash - was especially stunning - specifically when building maps that were meant to project a particular type of ambiance, or mood. The amount of objects accessible so far, via various DLCs - is satisfactory and suitable for my purposes as a GM - the only area it is currently lacking in, is more science fiction components. I am patient however, and hope that more such relevant DLCs will be released in the near future.
Second, the controls. After having seen (at long last), the beginner's tutorial video (available both on YouTube and on the Developer's website), I finally gained a solid understanding of how to become more efficient with the program's mechanics. I recommend this video to anyone who finds the software intimidating - you will find that as concise as it is, it gives you all the tools you need, to get going - and fast, too. (I am myself a visually impaired person, and I have to say even I find these controls to be easy to learn and manipulate.) All it took, was a little bit of patience.
Third, lets talk Price - and I mean, the whole price - including the DLCs. Sure, at $30 it is not considered 'inexpensive', and with the DLC's averaging at around half the price of the software, you will quickly spend a $100 without thinking about it. Yet, when you consider how much the basic LEGO set is, and then try to buy 5 or 6 *themed* sets to accompany it, you will spend quite a bit more. Basically, the way I see it, is this: What is the utility provided by this software, worth - to YOU? Is it worth what the developer asking for? Do you believe he has put in enough (or more than enough) effort, to warrant the price tag?
It definitely, is - to me.
As a Game Master who has spent years utilizing PDFs and crappy images of things found online (which more often than not, were grossly inadequate), I find Virtual Battlemap to be a breath of fresh air. YES, it will take time to build things with this software. YES, it will take a lot of patience on the user's part. YES, it will cost you some money if you wish to invest in it to the point where you can do everything and anything the software is capable of building. (I chose to forego going to Subway once a week to get myself a DLC. After a few months, I had all the DLCs I needed.) Yet in return, you will have a ton of fun, creating your own custom map which your players will appreciate and be awed by - as a Game Master, that is all the reward I need. :)
Thus, for the time being - I give it a 9/10 - with room for growth.
[b]FINAL VERDICT:[/b]
Highly Recommended - for patient, imaginative, open-minded Game Masters
