Locations aren’t really a specifically supported option within D&D Beyond, for that I’d refer you to a solid mapping tool such as Dungeondraft (best interior design) or Inkarnate (solid interiors, best city and regional map maker). Although you can plot out a series of encounters that would occupy a location with the Encounter Creator tool. For the NPC’s and Magic Items, check out the Homebrew and House Rules Forum here (https://www.dndbeyond.com/forums/dungeons-dragons-discussion/homebrew-house-rules). If you plan on playing online with a Virtual Tabletop Simulator, I recommend Roll20 as the best free VTT, or Foundry as the best paid for option.
It should be noted that DDB is launching a VTT later this year. Details are very lacking at this point (so far as I'm aware, we don't know anything about pricing structure, release date beyond that it'll be late 2023, and that it looks like it'll be similar to an old style video game in appearance). I just wanted the OP to be aware - I don't want you getting upset that you spent time and/or money investing in another VTT only to find out afterwards that DDB was about to release an option that may (or may not) be better for you.
Appellion - is Roll20 better than Owlbear Rodeo? I've heard the latter is better, but I've never done either in any depth to justify being able to make a claim either way.
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If you're not willing or able to to discuss in good faith, then don't be surprised if I don't respond, there are better things in life for me to do than humour you. This signature is that response.
I’ve actually never played Owlbear Rodeo, just heard about the various options, and yes my word of mouth info is that Roll20 is better as a free option. Personally I use Foundry.
Edit: As a note, I’d recommend the OP and everyone actually look at what’s been released for the DDB VTT and the insiders opinions as available. There’s a lot to suggest that what they offer in the next few years will not approach the quality of other VTT’s, particularly the level of map customization available, accessibility, and simple smoothness of play. What I saw shows a very cartoony game.
There is an addon for DDB called Beyond 20 which makes up a bit for not having the books on Roll20, etc.
I forgot about that one. I have a friend who uses that when he DMs. When it is working properly, he likes it. I would give the thumbs up for this too even though I have no used it based on his feedback. But I would recommend patience because there are apparently occasionally compatibility issues with it.
Oh sure, it’s not perfect. Foundry allows via its add on the transfer of characters, monsters, spells, and magic items from DDB and it’s a one time purchase, no subscription needed (there is one for a hosting site but it’s far from being necessary).
Obviously I still stand by Roll20 when it comes to free however (never cared for web based applications though). Or Owlbear Rodeo (I always want to call it “Owlbear Radio”), I just don’t have personal experience with it but enough people here swear by it I can’t say it sounds anything less than solid.
I’ve been playing and Dming D&D for decades, but I’m new to DND Beyond. How do I get started building a campaign? I’m planning on using Spelljammer.
How do I build locations, NPCs, magic items, etc?
Any important tips and tricks for a new Dm?
Thank you.
Tom
Locations aren’t really a specifically supported option within D&D Beyond, for that I’d refer you to a solid mapping tool such as Dungeondraft (best interior design) or Inkarnate (solid interiors, best city and regional map maker). Although you can plot out a series of encounters that would occupy a location with the Encounter Creator tool. For the NPC’s and Magic Items, check out the Homebrew and House Rules Forum here (https://www.dndbeyond.com/forums/dungeons-dragons-discussion/homebrew-house-rules). If you plan on playing online with a Virtual Tabletop Simulator, I recommend Roll20 as the best free VTT, or Foundry as the best paid for option.
It should be noted that DDB is launching a VTT later this year. Details are very lacking at this point (so far as I'm aware, we don't know anything about pricing structure, release date beyond that it'll be late 2023, and that it looks like it'll be similar to an old style video game in appearance). I just wanted the OP to be aware - I don't want you getting upset that you spent time and/or money investing in another VTT only to find out afterwards that DDB was about to release an option that may (or may not) be better for you.
Appellion - is Roll20 better than Owlbear Rodeo? I've heard the latter is better, but I've never done either in any depth to justify being able to make a claim either way.
If you're not willing or able to to discuss in good faith, then don't be surprised if I don't respond, there are better things in life for me to do than humour you. This signature is that response.
I’ve actually never played Owlbear Rodeo, just heard about the various options, and yes my word of mouth info is that Roll20 is better as a free option. Personally I use Foundry.
Edit: As a note, I’d recommend the OP and everyone actually look at what’s been released for the DDB VTT and the insiders opinions as available. There’s a lot to suggest that what they offer in the next few years will not approach the quality of other VTT’s, particularly the level of map customization available, accessibility, and simple smoothness of play. What I saw shows a very cartoony game.
There is an addon for DDB called Beyond 20 which makes up a bit for not having the books on Roll20, etc.
I forgot about that one. I have a friend who uses that when he DMs. When it is working properly, he likes it. I would give the thumbs up for this too even though I have no used it based on his feedback. But I would recommend patience because there are apparently occasionally compatibility issues with it.
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Oh sure, it’s not perfect. Foundry allows via its add on the transfer of characters, monsters, spells, and magic items from DDB and it’s a one time purchase, no subscription needed (there is one for a hosting site but it’s far from being necessary).
Obviously I still stand by Roll20 when it comes to free however (never cared for web based applications though). Or Owlbear Rodeo (I always want to call it “Owlbear Radio”), I just don’t have personal experience with it but enough people here swear by it I can’t say it sounds anything less than solid.