Hello, tabletop enthusiasts! We are diving into another engaging walkthrough of Fantasy Grounds Unity, and guess what? I have some new treats to share with you from the latest 4.5 update on the test channel. This update has the potential to change everything, especially when it comes to those intense combat situations that keep us on our toes!
Video walkthrough with Doug Davison, CEO of SmiteWorks.
Introducing the New Combat Tracker
Let's get started with the combat tracker, which now has a new initiative tracker. This sleek feature revolutionizes our encounters by individualizing each NPC's combat moves. Instead of bringing all NPCs together in one turn, the initiative is spread out, creating a more dynamic and unpredictable battle landscape. It is fantastic for those who appreciate the adrenaline rush of combining NPC actions with player turns.
To set this up, head to the 'Combat' options menu and scroll down to find 'Auto NPC Initiative'. You will see you can toggle it to be 'on group' by default, meaning NPCs would share a solitary initiative roll. For an even better interactive experience, try turning it on group by group. Your game gains a new layer of strategy thanks to this!
The Power of Perspective: Token View
Talking about game-changers, there's now the new 'Token View'. Do you remember the old camera view? Now, we've done it better! Select a token and switch to token view to behold the world from the chosen token's perspective.
Picture a ferocious fight in the 'Dragonlance: Shadow of the Dragon Queen' setting. Imagine an altar room that is filled with tension. Your valiant party moves forward, and the doors creak open, revealing the lurking dangers within. This is when the magic of token view shines! Use WASD keys or a simple drag to inch your character forward—either with a realistic grid snap or smooth, unrestricted movement.
"As you embark on these perilous confrontations, let the power of token view amplify your gameplay with immersive, up-close interactions with the game world." - Doug Davison
Combat Carousel: A New Turn-Based Perspective
With your adversaries unveiled, watch the combat tracker reflect your unfolding tale of might and magic, with your brave heroes and vile creatures listed. But here's the game-changer: a combat carousel now hovers at the top, spotlighting who's up next. This carousel turns the complex waltz of battle into a streamlined dance of destiny.
Visibility and Range: Tactics Redefined
Ever wondered if your rogue can spot that goblin archer from his shadowy corner? The new update answers that with resounding clarity. Move your character and watch as visibility ranges shift in real time. No more guesswork; you see what you get.
Creative AOE Spells and Dynamic Movements
Have you ever wanted to devise strategies using AOE (Area Of Effect) spells while in token view? It is now possible for you to do it! Draw circles, cones, and more, developing your strategy as if you were truly commanding the battlefield. If your character is feeling nimble, plot a path to the token lock and request the GM's nod to proceed. Picture yourself sliding your rogue into a perfect flanking position, anxiously waiting to unleash sneak attack havoc.
Fearsome Beasts, Diabolical Foes, and Beholders Take Flight
Dragons are soaring. Â The third dimension is brought to life in a new way through height adjustments and visual cues, creating a sense of grandeur and anticipation in each encounter. New additions are abundant in the SRD. Fantasy Grounds Fantasy Monsters FM1 Art Pack will be included with all FGU licenses. A vast assortment of creatures, from ice devils to storm giants, are revitalized with fresh artwork and detailed images. You will find beasts for every tale, commanding the battlefield.
Cannot wait until these updates are released on the live servers? No problem! Switch from 'Live' to 'Test' in your settings and run the update. Let us know your thoughts on these features. Head over to the Fantasy Grounds forums or join the Discord discussion. Keep in mind that what happens in the test channel stays in the test channel.
Have fun and roll the dice.