Map & NPC Creation
Forget AI, Make it Yourself
It is absolutely frowned upon in the TTRPG scene to turn to AI for the creation of your games. There are so many fan made resources you can be using instead that don't cost a dime, and still make the process easy for you.
Below is a list of resources that I use to make my maps, design NPCs, and more! I also have a video link on how to make a map entirely from scratch up on my YouTube channel now. Click on the link below to access, and keep scrolling to learn!
I made this map using the free version of Inkarnate! I am NOT sponsored, but this is one of my favorite free tools to use.
This website and others are linked below!
Map Making
Inkarnate: This is where I make most of my world maps! There is a ton of free options, with different styles and stamp options.
Keep in mind, some people have had issues with payments when buying the full version. I highly recommend sticking with the free version!
Dungeon Fog: Another option I use for free tools. I much prefer to make all of my battle maps on here.
I always recommend staying with the free versions, but I have not heard any issues with the paid variety here!
NPC Making
Meiker: After years of using Picrews, that website ended up being so full of harmful ads I had to find a switch. Meiker provides the same experience as Picrew used to, and if getting more and more templates every time I open the website.
Reddit: There is nothing quite like crowd made work. The DnD subreddit has so many links to community drives and folders full of their tokens. Many of which can be uploaded directly to websites like Roll20.
Here are a handful of NPCs I have made using Meiker! All of the artist handles are in the images.
These are all free to use; however, it is always appreciated to leave the artist handles.
The top 2 NPCs are for my Cyberpunk Red campaigns, and the bottom is for a 5e DnD campaign. So tons of variety.