Quickstart

A quick overview of how TerraScriber works.

TerraScriber makes it easy to create attractive maps for your virtual or tabletop gaming session! This page summarizes the overall workflow to create a map.

TerraScriber uses a grid-based system for creating maps that works nicely with most grid-based tabletop games. The default content that comes with TerraScriber assumes that a grid square is approximately five feet.

Create A New Map

You can create a new map on the main title screen. Once created, the new map will automatically be given a filename and saved to disk. The new empty map will show up in the list of maps and will be available for editing.

Editing Your Map

TerraScriber divides editing into two main modes: Layers and Items.

Layers define the main "geometry" of your map and are grid based - things like floors, walls, pathways, rooms, and waterways.

Items are decorative map elements and are not grid based - things like tables, chairs, signposts, trees, and virtually anything else can be placed as an Item.

Items always render on top of Layers.

Camera Control

Use the mouse wheel to zoom in and out. The current zoom is shown in the bottom left status bar.

Press middle mouse to drag/pan the map.

Holding the space key will also drag/pan the map if you are using a touchpad or do not have a middle click.

Check out the Shortcut Keys & Controls page for all shortcuts!

Saving Your Map

Once you create a map, it will automatically be saved constantly as you edit. Drawing Layer tiles, placing, duplicating, or repositioning items, and similar activities trigger a save.

At this time, TerraScriber does not have undo functionality. Changing the name of your map in the Map Settings panel will save it to a new filename on disk and is the only way to make big changes safely. This is something we plan to address in a future version release.

Changing Map Effects

You can change the map name and apply effects to the overall look of your map in Settings mode.

The resizing feature is coming soon and will appear in the Map Settings panel.

Exporting Your Map

You can export your map at different scales using the Export mode.