There are several hex map editors available for your hex based gaming needs, but if you’re like me, you prefer a bit more flexibility. Who wants to be locked into someone else’s tile designs and so forth? I’m also working on a new game design, so wanted something generic that I could build out from.
I like Photoshop, so the first thing I wanted was an image file with built in transparency and set to standard US letter size paper (may add other sizes in future) in case I want to print out a map for tabletop play. I started with a hex map PDF with hexes set to .35 inches per side, using this hexagonal graph paper generator. Next I converted it to a JPG using an online PDF to JPG converter. This didn’t give me the transparency I wanted, but it was easy enough to make those changes in Photoshop. I’ll link a zip including a PNG and GIF version of the generic hex map template at the bottom of this article, but first I wanted to take a minute to explain what I like about this approach.
As it stands, I’ve left the hexes white, rather than transparent. I find this helpful, because I can add a layer over the top and rough in a map design. This design can then be executed in more detail below the hex layer, with each white hex then easy to select and delete as the detailed map is fleshed out. It’s also easy to select and copy/paste a single white hex to a new image to create tiles that fit the map. If you’d rather delete the white, select color range and you should be good to go.
I played around a bit just to have something for this post. It’s ugly, but you can see some examples of how you might use it to create a map, overlay over an existing map, create tiles, etc. I’ll include the axe chick I made below with the zip. I converted a photo, but all the stock photo sites offer sets of silhouettes. One stock vector image should give you enough characters for an entire game. Since posting I bought a vector of some black and white landscape symbols that I used for trees and flowers. I have 80 some credits at Depositphotos.com, so using one for a file with 49 different trees and bushes was a no brainer.
A few examples of how you can use the hex map template. It’s ugly, but you get the idea.
The Zip: Generic Hex Map Template PNG & GIF + Axewoman Tile
Hope you enjoy. Cheers!