If you and your friends are eager to dive into a Pathfinder 1st Edition campaign online, the right Virtual Tabletop (VTT) can elevate your game and streamline the experience. From automated character sheets to intricate combat tracking and dynamic lighting, there’s a VTT out there to fit your group's needs. Here are some of the top VTTs to consider for playing Pathfinder 1st Edition online.

Roll20: An All-Around Favorite

Best For: Ease of use, broad compatibility, and a large community

Roll20 has been a staple for online tabletop gaming for years, and it’s an excellent choice for Pathfinder 1st Edition. The platform offers a virtual tabletop with grids, character sheets, and even dynamic lighting that is only available with a paid subscription. 

With its large community, Roll20 has plenty of shared resources like maps, tokens, and even fully prepared adventures.

Pros:
Simple and intuitive user interface
Extensive tutorials and community support
Built-in Pathfinder 1e character sheets
Marketplace for buying modules and assets

Cons:
Free version has limitations on dynamic lighting and the storage is low.
Interface can be a bit clunky at times

Roll20 is especially recommended for new players and groups who want a platform that’s easy to pick up with minimal setup.

Foundry Virtual Tabletop: High Customization and Great Features

Best For: Advanced users who want full control and automation

Foundry VTT provides an incredibly powerful experience for Pathfinder 1st Edition with a lot of customization options. It supports character sheets, automated combat tracking, and even custom game mechanics. 

Unlike other VTTs, Foundry has a one-time purchase, and it allows you to host your own server for a more personal experience.

Pros:
Highly customizable and flexible
Comprehensive character sheet automation
Large selection of community-created modules
Full control over your game space

Cons:
Steeper learning curve, especially for new users
Requires self-hosting or paying for a hosting service

If you’re tech-savvy and enjoy customizing your game, Foundry offers a high level of control over every aspect of your campaign.

Fantasy Grounds: Integrated Pathfinder 1e Support

Best For: Those who want a feature-rich, rules-automated experience

Fantasy Grounds excels in providing automated game mechanics and detailed Pathfinder 1st Edition support. 

It is specifically designed to handle complex rulesets like Pathfinder 1e, and the platform comes with powerful tools to manage everything from character creation to combat encounters. 

The official Pathfinder 1e ruleset is available, which means you can focus on the fun without worrying too much about calculations.

Pros:
Powerful automation for Pathfinder 1e rules
Well-designed for managing complex systems
Official support for Pathfinder content, modules and books
Extensive marketplace for additional content

Cons:
Higher initial cost for software and modules
Interface can feel clunky for beginners

If you prefer having the rules automatically handled for you and don't mind spending on modules and tools, Fantasy Grounds provides an excellent platform for deep, rule-intensive gameplay.

Beyond Tabletop: Simple and Free

Best For: Groups looking for a lightweight, free VTT

Beyond Tabletop is an excellent VTT option if your group is just getting started and doesn’t want to commit to a paid service. It’s free, easy to use, and works directly in your browser without requiring an account. 

While it doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of larger platforms, Beyond Tabletop is perfect for groups who just want a basic experience with maps and tokens.

Pros:
Completely free to use
No sign-up required, super simple setup
Works directly in your browser

Cons:
Lacks complex automation
Fewer customization options and features compared to others

For groups that want something quick and no-fuss, Beyond Tabletop is a great choice, though you may find it lacking for more detailed gameplay.

Owlbear Rodeo: Quick and Simple Gameplay

Best For: Groups that want a simple, easy-to-use VTT for quick gameplay

Owlbear Rodeo is one of the most straightforward VTTs, focusing purely on maps and tokens. 

It’s simple, intuitive, and free to use, making it a perfect solution for groups who don’t need complex character sheets or automation. 

You can upload maps and place tokens without much effort, and it works directly from your browser.

With its extra free to use extensions you can add dynamic lighting and music to your game.

Pros:
Free and easy to use
Focused on quick, smooth gameplay
Works well for small groups or casual sessions

Cons:
No built-in character sheet support or rules automation
Limited features compared to other VTTs

Owlbear Rodeo is great if you want a quick setup and minimal distractions.

Choosing the best VTT for your Pathfinder 1st Edition game comes down to your group's needs and preferences.

If you’re looking for a robust, beginner-friendly platform, Roll20 might be your best bet. For a more advanced, customizable experience, Foundry VTT is a top contender. If automation is your priority, Fantasy Grounds has you covered, while Owlbear Rodeo and Beyond Tabletop are perfect for groups that want simplicity and quick setup.

No matter which VTT you choose, you’ll be well on your way to an exciting online Pathfinder adventure!

There are other simple VTT platforms out there; a list can be found here.

Alternatively, you can join a game on StartPlaying and try out some of the different VTTTs used by our excellent pro GMs running Pathfinder 1st Edition.

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Bo is a professional GM running games on StartPlaying.games with over 40 years’ experience in the fantasy realms of tabletop role-playing games, and he uses VTTTs daily to run his games online.