If you don't mind killing flies with a sledgehammer (massive overkill), you can search for lots of tutorials for using QGIS to create fantasy maps. This is a free, open-source mapping package that is capable of just about any style or mapping need imaginable. You can totally go down a rabbit hole and have databases linked to your map with loot tables, back stories, etc...
It looks like wonderdraft has that functionality. Tutorial.
Its a one time purchase as well.
It is windows and Linux only, I am on a Mac. I have been browsing their discord messages got a week or so and it appears buying a pc is the most common solution to getting it to run on Mac.
That's a shame, their main webpage says it runs on macos.
When I look at requirements it only shows windows and Linux. But I do now see that it says macOS under the map header above the YouTube video. I will ask the discord again.
I’ve been using Campaign Cartographer 3+ for a few years now. It does support image backgrounds (and depending on your image it might even trace it for you)… … but I should say that it does have a somewhat steep learning curve. It’s more a CAD tool than a drawing tool.
You will most likely need to read the tutorials and maybe watch a few videos to be comfortable with it. Luckily, there’s lots of videos and a forum with tons of friendly people.
It’s not cheap but it just so happens that there’s a Humble Bundle ongoing for the next 5 days:
https://www.humblebundle.com/software/maps-extravaganza-revisited-software
You’d have to go for the highest tier to get the base program.
CC3+ runs on any modern PC with Microsoft Windows 10, 8 (and 8.1), Windows 7, Vista, XP or 2000.
That rules out that one.
Mac? Linux?
It runs decently under wine on Linux, but I've heard Mac users struggle.
But yeah, I get it.
Mac, yes. Looking for something web based if not a Mac package.
You can do that in inkarnate but only with the subscription. Uploading as a stamp would probably be the best way because then you could move and size like you want, plus you could tweak the opacity to trace over it more easily.
Thanks. That is good to know. I wish it had a purchase option instead of a subscription as I have no idea when I will get to work on this again.
It lets you import base maps and create stylized overlays, with artifacts like terrain symbols, map legends, and icon sets (extra cost for some of those). You can even draw line routes on top.
The import process is a bit wonky. Not sure you can bring in multiple backgrounds, copy/paste is a bit random, and it's a bit fiddly about file formats. It also sometimes would crash so important to save often, but the output is really nice. Also has a Mac version.
Welcome to the TTRPG/DND/D&D/Fantasy Map Makers Community!
We're thrilled to have you here! This community is all about the art and craft of creating TTRPG maps. Whether you're a seasoned cartographer or just beginning, this is the perfect place to delve into the world of map making. Here, we exchange knowledge, seek advice, explore techniques, and bring our imaginary worlds to life.
Our Main Focus: Map Making Discussions
Primarily, our community thrives on open discussions about all aspects of map-making. Topics can range from tools, techniques, and asset sharing to queries about scaling and more. This open forum is where we share knowledge, learn from one another, and celebrate the process of map creation.
Other Acceptable Posts Include:
Map Making Prompts: Feel free to post prompts that others can interpret through their unique artistic perspectives. Create maps inspired by these prompts and share your process!
User Requests: If you have a specific idea for a map but lack the skills to bring it to life, you can post your request here. Our talented community of artists may choose to fulfill them. Remember, this isn't a place for paid requests, and we reserve the right to revisit this policy if the number of requests becomes overwhelming.
Artist's 'Make a Request' Posts: Artists in our community can start a thread inviting others to make requests, which they can then attempt to fulfill. This keeps the requests contained and easy to follow. This section also doesn't cater to paid services, and the policy may change in the future.
Rules:
We're here to foster a collaborative environment where map makers can learn from each other and improve their skills. This community is about celebrating the process of map creation and exploring innovative ways to illustrate adventures. While sharing completed maps is not our primary goal, feel free to join [email protected] to showcase your completed creations.
Find more TTRPG/DND: