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Fantasy Grounds Unity VTT Platform: Embracing the Future with Version 4.4.0
In the ever-evolving world of virtual tabletop gaming, Fantasy Grounds Unity (FGU) continues to push the boundaries with its latest update, version 4.4.0 . This update brings many new features that enhance the user experience, making your gaming sessions more immersive and enjoyable. Check out the official Fantasy Grounds video for a sneak peek of these new features.
Summary of Version 4.4.0
FGU 4.4.0 Feature Update
Animated Maps & Tokens: The new version of Fantasy Grounds Unity (FGU) supports animated graphic files in the webp or webm format, allowing for transparency and the creation of animated maps.
Enhancing Flat Maps with Animated Webm assets: The presenter demonstrates how to add depth and detail to maps using animations and flat maps. An example is shown where trees, water, fish, and birds are added to a map.
New Dice Packs - Annulus of Focus and Knots of Fates: New dice packs, including the Wizard and Artificer packs, are introduced. These packs offer fixed and colorable options with additional effects layers.
Reference Manual Updates: The update shifts from using story entries to reference manuals in the Adventures feature. A new feature is introduced that allows users to shrink and expand images and other content within a story entry.
Reverting Changes to Reference Manuals: The presenter explains how to manage changes to a document using a version control system, demonstrating how to revert changes, copy and paste sections, and create multiple versions of a document.
Syrinscape Sound Integration: An upcoming adventure module, "The Lost Mine of Phandelver", is described. This module will allow players to link their Sirenscape account to use Siren's Keep sounds.
Using Local Sounds: A system for adding sound effects to a game is discussed, with the presenter explaining how a variety of one-shot sounds and elements can be added to the game.
Importing UVTT files, DD2VTT files, and DF2VTT files: The new import feature in Fantasy Grounds version 4.4 is discussed. This feature allows users to import files from the past and drag and drop them into the program. The Import button for images is a blue import button at the bottom that now supports other file types.
New Formats, New Possibilities
One of the most exciting additions in this update is the support for WEBM and WEBP file formats. These versatile formats open up a world of possibilities for your games. However, it's important to note that for WEBM files, FGU supports only the VP8 codec and not VP9. Additionally, audio is not supported for WEBM files. For UI usage, frame graphics do not support WEBM nor animated WEBP, and portraits do not support WEBM. Check out this informative article to learn more about the VP8 and VP9 codecs.
FGU 4.4.0
Enhanced Image Handling
The 4.4.0 update also introduces support for UVTT file import, converting files to PNG and XML. This feature, along with the new image export button located at the bottom of the image data control, gives you more control over your image files. Additionally, image layer controls for sharing and visibility have been separated into two toggles, providing more flexibility and precision.
Navigating the New Landscape
While these new features offer exciting possibilities, they also introduce new considerations. For instance, if you're creating your tokens or sourcing them from elsewhere, you must ensure they're compatible with these new requirements, particularly the VP8 codec requirement for WEBM files.
If you're considering purchasing third-party tokens and maps, be aware that those created with the unsupported VP9 codec will not work with FGU. Determining which codec was used to create a given file can be tricky, but don't worry; we've got you covered. The free VLC media player is a handy tool to help you determine the codec used for any Webm or WebP file.
Resources to Enhance Your Gaming Experience
Whether you're interested in purchasing pre-made animated tokens or creating your own, we've compiled a list of resources to help you get started:
Animated Token Artists:
Immortal Nights
Jinker on Patreon
Crosshead Studios
Beneos Tokens on Patreon
DriveThruRPG
Animated Token Creation Tools:
Online GIF Tools
EZGIF
Animated Token Maker on GitHub
FFmpeg
With these resources at your fingertips, you're well-equipped to make the most of the new features in FGU version 4.4.0. So, whether you're a seasoned virtual tabletop gamer or just starting your journey, these updates and resources are sure to enhance your gaming experience. For more details about these updates, feel free to visit the Fantasy Grounds Forum.
Happy gaming!