Hey everyone,

So, some friends and I are interested in getting into EotE through the beginner box (they've never had a chance to do an RPG before, I'm very inexperienced). However, we're all spread out and thus will have to play online. So I'm trying to figure out the best way to make that happen. So far the options I'm seeing are Roll20 or Tabletop simulator. The latter would be nice, allowing for a more "physical" experience that I think would be appealing to some members. I should be able to scan all the relevant maps and sheets in, and create custom dice.

But I figured I'd check in here and see what experienced players thought on the subject. Any advice on the best way to make this happen (or on getting started in general) would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

Another option might be Google+ Hangouts - there is a Hangout app for Edge of the Empire dice. This is a nice option because it's free.

However, the Hangouts app and Tabletop Simulator (never heard of it until now, had to Google it) both have the limitation of being "desktop OS" only - Fantasy Grounds has the same problem, except it's limited to Windows only (or Windows emulator). Roll20's EotE options are amazing (with paid Mentor status) and works perfectly well on tablets as well as desktops/laptops.

If you don't think you need mobile device support, then the Hangouts app is worth looking into before spending money on something.

Fantasy Grounds is now installable through Steam. It gives that tabletop feel that you are looking for, and also allows a free limited demo, so you can check it out before buying.

EDIT: I feel I should also mention MapTool, because it is free and has pretty good EotE support as well, but it is not for the faint-of-heart. As much as I like it, I simply cannot recommend it unless you are VERY familiar with (and not afraid of) manual installs, batch and custom scripting, environment variables, and the like.