What is Foundry-VTT Builder?

Foundry-VTT Builder is a custom-configured version of ChatGPT designed to assist users in the development and customization of Foundry Virtual Tabletop (VTT). Its core purpose is to be a versatile companion for developers, worldbuilders, and Game Masters (GMs) who are working on anything from simple macros to full-fledged game systems within the Foundry VTT ecosystem. The Builder adapts to the user's skill level—offering simplified guidance for newcomers and deep technical strategies for experienced developers. Example scenario: A beginner might use Foundry-VTT Builder to write their first macro to roll initiative for a custom creature. Meanwhile, a seasoned developer might rely on it to architect a modular combat tracker using dynamic socket communication and reactive UI elements. Whether you're debugging a custom module or translating an entire system into multiple languages, Foundry-VTT Builder offers targeted, efficient, and friendly assistance.

Core Functions of Foundry-VTT Builder

  • Macro Creation and Automation

    Example

    Automating a fireball spell that calculatesFoundry-VTT Builder Overview damage, applies area effects, and checks for saving throws.

    Scenario

    A GM wants a macro that auto-rolls damage for Fireball, prompts enemies to make DEX saves, and subtracts HP. Foundry-VTT Builder helps write the macro using the Foundry API, ensuring it supports asynchronous actions and localized strings.

  • Module and System Development

    Example

    Creating a module that adds a new UI toolbar for spell slots and integrates with D&D 5e system hooks.

    Scenario

    A developer is building a module that tracks spell slot usage. Foundry-VTT Builder assists with hook registration (e.g., `Hooks.on('renderActorSheet')`), UI injection, and persistent settings using `game.settings` and `socketlib` for cross-user state sync.

  • Compendium and Content Management

    Example

    Generating compendium entries for custom items and importing stat blocks from JSON data.

    Scenario

    A worldbuilder has 100 homebrew items in JSON format. Foundry-VTT Builder guides them in writing a script to convert the JSON into Foundry `Item` entities and batch-import them into a compendium pack via `pack.importDocuments()`.

Who Benefits Most from Foundry-VTT Builder?

  • Beginner Foundry Developers and GMs

    Users new to Foundry’s development ecosystem, such as GMs wanting to write macros or small tweaks. Foundry-VTT Builder offers guided learning, clean code examples, and explanation of core concepts like hooks, actors, scenes, and journal entries.

  • Advanced System and Module Developers

    Experienced JavaScript developers building complex modules or entire game systems. Foundry-VTT Builder supports their workflow with performance tuning tips, API usage patterns, localization strategies, and advanced architecture advice—like socket-based multiplayer synchronization or dependency injection.

How to Use Foundry-VTT Builder

  • 1. Access the Tool

    Visit aichatonline.org for a free trial with no login required and no need for ChatGPT Plus. Simply open the site and select the 'Foundry-VTT Builder' from the available GPTs.

  • 2. Prepare Your Foundry VTT Context

    Know your Foundry VTT version and the type of development you're pursuing (e.g., system, module, or macro). This ensures the builder tailors advice to your current framework or API version.

  • 3. Ask Contextual Questions

    You can request code snippets, macro logic, UI customization, compendium workflows, or system/module structure. Be specific for best results—include your goal, game system, or feature needed.

  • 4. Review & Iterate

    Use the generated guidance inside your Foundry VTT project. If needed, ask follow-up questions to refine logic, improve performance, or handle Foundry-specific edge cases.

  • 5. Apply Best Practices

    Incorporate modular code, asynchronous-safe hooks, and localization. The builderFoundry-VTT Builder Guide can explain these and help scaffold them into your project for clean, maintainable code.

  • Game Design
  • Macro Coding
  • System Dev
  • UI Theming
  • Compendium Work

Frequently Asked Questions About Foundry-VTT Builder

  • What exactly is Foundry-VTT Builder?

    Foundry-VTT Builder is an AI assistant tailored for developers working within the Foundry Virtual Tabletop ecosystem. It helps with macro scripting, system and module development, UI theming, and automating repetitive tasks using Foundry's API.

  • Can it generate working macros for Foundry?

    Yes. Foundry-VTT Builder can generate macros for token manipulation, chat commands, automation, and combat enhancements. It accounts for game-specific data structures, like actor data or item rolls.

  • Does it support module and system development?

    Absolutely. It provides scaffolding, JSON manifest structure, integration with game systems, localization, hook registration, and interaction with core data models. It aligns with the best practices from Foundry's documentation.

  • Is it beginner-friendly?

    Yes. It dynamically adapts its explanations and coding depth based on your prompt. Whether you’re learning your first macro or architecting a custom system, it provides step-by-step assistance or advanced debugging help.

  • How does it handle updates to Foundry versions?

    The builder is version-aware. You can specify your Foundry version, and it will adjust its advice and code to match the corresponding API structure, deprecated methods, or new features relevant to that version.

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