Roll20.net is a site that encompasses all categories of website. They are primarily a Software as a Service and Community site, but as they provide an extensive marketplace, various search functions that pull from elsewhere on the internet, and are one of the top locations for virtual table top players, this site slots neatly into the entertainment category as well. Roll20 was launched in 2012 by founders Riley Dutton, Nolan Jones, and Richard Zayas after a successful kickstarter (Wikepedia). The site exploded in popularity after the Covid-19 pandemic when Table Top groups were unable to meet in person. They continue to push their marketing by sponsoring Actual Play livestreams on Twitch and other platforms.
Search:
Roll20 allows users to search through a compendium of game information. From core mechanics, monsters, and npc stat blocks to the in-table search functions allowing Game Masters to pull free token images from google. Roll20 boasts a strong search function that is a strong asset to its users.
Transaction:
Roll20 hosts a digital marketplace where they sell TTRPG gamebooks, maps, tokens, and more. Users do not need to purchase this content on the site to be able to make use of it, but it makes running games much easier, and allows for additional features within the digital table top such as dynamic lighting on maps. Purchasing content directly from Roll20 automatically adds it to the user’s catalog and allows for a simple drag and drop within the tabletop.
Information:
Users with and without purchased content are able to use the search function to look up game rules. Information is compiled from various sources allowing for quick reference. Roll20 also provides a wiki site for getting to know their software.
Community:
Roll20 has a strong community of players, and offers a ‘Looking For Game’ function that allows users to find and join games with individuals they may never have had a chance to play with otherwise. There is an active and helpful forum section where you can connect with other players for assistance or ideas.
SaaS:
Roll20’s main function is as a digital table top. This software is client-based and free to use, but monthly or annual subscriptions unlock further features. The digital tabletop provides a map, a small menu, and a chat window that also acts as an inventory for character journals.
While Roll20 provides a marketplace where they sell third party content, their primary income source is their direct subscriptions. Use of the digital table top is free, but their two subscription tiers unlock additional features.
Free use of the website allows for use of the virtual table top and 100MB of storage.
Plus allows up for 3GB of storage, dynamic lighting, and unlimited listings in Looking for Group. The Plus subscription is $5.99 USD/month or $49.99 USD/year.
Pro allows for 8GB of storage, allows you to copy elements between games, and early access to new tools. The Pro subscription is $9.99 USD/month or 99.99 USD/month.
Entertainment:
Roll20’s is gaming site, and as such it is an entertainment site. I spend multiple hours a week on Roll20, laughing and causing chaos in fantasy worlds with my friends. It has been well worth the time and money.
Sources:
Wikepedia, Roll20. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roll20