The 3D scenes without the module stack
Foundry can do almost anything with the right modules, including 3D, and maintaining that stack is a hobby of its own. Tabletop ships 3D as the default and nothing else to manage: a library, a builder, a ruler and a tracker.
Side by side
| Topic | Tabletop | Foundry VTT |
|---|---|---|
| 3D | Native: every scene is 3D | Via community modules |
| Content | A CC0 realistic library built in, plus your own .glb files | Bring or buy content; module ecosystem |
| Setup | Sign up, or run one Node process to self-host | Licence, a host, worlds, systems and modules |
| Rules automation | None | Deep, per system |
| Remote play | Not yet | Yes |
| Price | Free sign-up; open self-hosting | One-time licence |
Foundry Virtual Tabletop is a trademark of its owners and is not affiliated with Tabletop. Feature notes describe the other product in general terms as we understand it at the time of writing; check its site for current details.
Self-host in one process
The server is a single Node process with no native dependencies: it serves the site, the app and the accounts. Put it behind any reverse proxy and you are done. Accounts support email and password, magic links, and Google, GitHub and Discord sign-in.
Build with a recipe, or with an AI
Scene recipes describe maps at a high level and compile to grid-correct geometry. The repository includes a guide and catalog written for AI assistants so a scene can be authored from a sentence.
Where Foundry is still the better pick
Anything needing automation, a remote party in one world, fog of war, walls that block vision, or a specific module you rely on. Tabletop trades all of that for speed and a table that looks painted.
Questions
Can Tabletop import Foundry scenes?
No. It has its own scene JSON and recipe formats.
Is there a module API?
No plugin system. The code is open and small enough to change directly.
Keep reading
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Build with AI
Scene recipes, and how an assistant writes them.
Ready to put a map on the table?
Sign up in a minute. Five starter scenes are waiting on the welcome screen.