How ArcForge compares to D&D Beyond for running and preparing D&D 5e campaigns.
Last reviewed September 30, 2026
ArcForge is a GM-first workspace for preparing and running a campaign - scenes, NPCs, combat, and battle maps in one connected tool, plus a guided Solo Play mode.
D&D Beyond is the official Wizards of the Coast digital toolset for D&D 5e, centered on digital rulebooks, a character builder, and an official Maps VTT, with subscription tiers unlocking shared content and character slots.
| ArcForge | D&D Beyond | |
|---|---|---|
| Primary use case | Prepping and running a campaign as the GM, from scene notes to the table | Official D&D 5e rules, character building, and content ownership |
| Official content | Uses SRD-licensed D&D 5e and ORC-licensed Pathfinder 2e reference material | Official Wizards of the Coast books and content, purchasable in the marketplace |
| Character tools | Character records tied to the campaign and Player Hub | Detailed digital character builder and sheets, the product's core strength |
| Campaign management | Adventures, scenes, NPCs, factions, and session history in one workspace | "My Campaigns" for grouping players and tracking rolls together |
| Virtual tabletop | Battle maps with tokens and fog of war, connected to campaign prep | Official Maps VTT with quickplay maps and encounter tools |
| Game system support | D&D 5e, Pathfinder 2e Remastered, and homebrew systems | D&D 5e only |
| Solo play | Dedicated guided Solo Play mode | Not offered; built for group play |
| Pricing model | Free Squire plan, with paid plans for higher creation and storage limits | Free core account, with Hero and Master subscription tiers unlocking content sharing and extra character slots |
GMs who want scene-by-scene campaign prep, combat tracking, maps, and solo play connected in one workspace.
Players and GMs who want the official D&D 5e digital rulebooks, character builder, and Wizards of the Coast-published content in one place.