A visual representation used in tabletop role-playing games, specifically Dungeons & Dragons, depicting the interior of a subterranean cavern prepared for combat. This illustration typically features a grid overlay to regulate movement and range, with details such as rock formations, pathways, and potential obstacles or hazards. Examples include hand-drawn sketches, digital renders, or commercially produced mats designed to enhance the gaming experience.
These layouts offer a tangible and shared visualization of the combat environment, fostering strategic decision-making and promoting immersive gameplay. Historically, rudimentary versions were sketched during gameplay, but evolved with technology into detailed and reusable assets. They can streamline encounter management, reduce ambiguity regarding spatial relationships, and provide a platform for imaginative storytelling within the context of the game.
