Web-based platform for creating and managing board game components
Core Idea: Dextrous is a specialized web application that streamlines the creation and management of board game components by allowing designers to create templates, import data from spreadsheets, and export directly to Tabletop Simulator for Game Design.
Key Elements
Key Features
- Layout creation for cards, tokens, and other game components
- Layer-based design interface similar to graphics software
- Data importing from CSV/spreadsheets
- Direct export to Tabletop Simulator for Game Design
- Template-based approach for consistent component design
Technical Specifications
- Web-based platform accessible through browser
- Free tier available with core functionality
- Supports image imports
- Text customization including size and positioning
- Exports in print-ready formats and TTS-compatible files
Use Cases
- Creating card games with numerous similar components
- Managing game elements that require frequent iteration
- Centralizing game design assets and configuration
- Integrating with Rapid Game Prototyping Workflow
- Transitioning from conceptual design to playtesting quickly
Implementation Steps
- Create a Dextrous account
- Create a new project
- Add components and create layouts
- Design card/component templates with text fields and visual elements
- Connect to data source (like Google Sheets published as CSV)
- Export to Tabletop Simulator or print formats
Additional Connections
- Broader Context: Digital Game Design Tools (part of the modern designer's toolkit)
- Applications: Print-and-Play Game Creation (can export print-ready files)
- See Also: Component Studio (alternative tool with similar functionality)
References
- Dextrous website and documentation
- TBLOPcraft tutorial on rapid prototyping workflow
#gamedesign #digitaltools #boardgamedesign #cardgames #prototyping
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