In Realm VTT, you can create Canvas Scenes to quickly sketch out basic maps. This is an essential tool for GMs who need to improvise a dungeon or terrain layout on the fly when a pre-made map isn't ready.

While we plan to expand this with multiple aesthetic styles in the future, the current version features a clean, Old-School (OSR) style with customizable background colors.

Collaborative Mapping for Old-School Play

What makes Canvas Scenes truly unique is the ability for both GMs and Players to draw on the scene. This is perfect for old-school style adventuring where a designated player acts as the "mapper," documenting the party's progress through the dungeon in real-time.

How to Create a Canvas Scene

1. Open the Scenes Tab: Click on New Scene from the Left Drawer.

2. Select Canvas Scene: Give your scene a name and select the Canvas Scene type.

3. Configure Your Grid: Choose a size (up to 100x100 cells) and pick your preferred background color.

4. Start Drawing! Once inside, you can begin laying out your dungeon immediately.

Drawing Tools & Shortcuts

The drawing interface is designed for speed and precision. Use these tools to build your map:

• Walls: Click the purple Wall button on the right.

  • Snap-to-Grid: Default behavior for straight lines.

  • Restrict Direction: Hold Shift to lock to a specific axis.

  • Free-hand: Press "S" to draw organic shapes.

  • Note: Walls automatically include Line of Sight (LoS) properties.

• Doors & Windows: Select the respective icon and draw anywhere. These tools automatically snap-to-grid and will auto-replace walls when drawn over them.

• Erase & Edit: Use the Erase tool to click and delete specific segments.

• Undo/Redo: Made a mistake? Use Ctrl/Cmd-Z to undo or Shift-Cmd-Z to redo your last action.

Customizing Permissions and Settings

Access the Settings (top-right button) to fine-tune your scene:

• Resize: Expand or shrink the canvas as the adventure grows.

• Color Palette: Change the background color at any time.

• Player Controls: Toggle the ability for Players to draw on the map to suit your table's playstyle.