The Trove was a popular repository for tabletop gaming resources, including PDFs of rulebooks, adventures, and supplements for Dungeons & Dragons (D&D), Pathfinder, and other role-playing games (RPGs). However, due to legal challenges and concerns about copyright infringement, The Trove is no longer available. As a result, many tabletop enthusiasts are seeking The Trove alternatives to access legitimate resources and support the gaming community.

Trove Alternatives

This guide explores the best alternatives to The Trove, focusing on legal and community-driven options for RPG content.


Why Look for The Trove Alternatives?

While The Trove provided a centralized platform for RPG materials, its shutdown highlights the importance of supporting creators and publishers. Here’s why you might need alternatives:

  1. Legal Issues: The Trove often hosted copyrighted material without permission, leading to its closure.
  2. Support for Creators: Purchasing or accessing legitimate resources ensures game developers are compensated for their work.
  3. Community Engagement: Many alternatives are community-driven, offering forums, tools, and additional support for tabletop gaming.
  4. Updated Content: Legal platforms provide up-to-date materials and official errata.

By exploring these alternatives, you can access high-quality resources while respecting intellectual property rights.


Top Alternatives to The Trove

1. DriveThruRPG

DriveThruRPG is one of the largest marketplaces for RPG content, offering both free and paid materials.

Key Features:

  • Extensive Library: Access rulebooks, adventures, and supplements for D&D, Pathfinder, Call of Cthulhu, and more.
  • Pay-What-You-Want: Some content allows you to set your price, including free downloads.
  • Publisher Partnerships: Features official materials from well-known publishers.
  • Print-on-Demand: Order physical copies of selected products.

Why It’s a Great Alternative:

  • A legitimate platform that supports creators.
  • Offers a mix of free and premium resources.

Best For: Players and dungeon masters looking for official and third-party content.


2. D&D Beyond

D&D Beyond is the official digital toolset for Dungeons & Dragons, providing everything you need to play the game.

Key Features:

  • Official Rulebooks: Access all core rulebooks, expansions, and adventure modules.
  • Character Builder: Create and manage characters with ease.
  • Homebrew Content: Share and use custom content created by the community.
  • Mobile-Friendly: Available on desktop and mobile devices for easy access during games.

Why It’s a Great Alternative:

  • Officially licensed platform for D&D content.
  • Combines rulebooks with interactive tools for gameplay.

Best For: D&D players and dungeon masters seeking an all-in-one toolset.


3. Paizo

Paizo is the official publisher of Pathfinder and Starfinder, offering a vast collection of resources for these systems.

Key Features:

  • Official Rulebooks: Purchase digital or physical copies of core books and expansions.
  • Free Resources: Access free Pathfinder Society scenarios and other materials.
  • Adventure Paths: Download full campaigns with detailed settings and storylines.
  • Community Hub: Engage with other players and game masters in the forums.

Why It’s a Great Alternative:

  • Provides everything needed for Pathfinder and Starfinder games.
  • Supports the creators behind these popular systems.

Best For: Pathfinder and Starfinder enthusiasts.


4. Itch.io

Itch.io is a platform for indie creators, offering a variety of unique tabletop RPGs and supplements.

Key Features:

  • Indie Games: Discover new RPG systems and one-shot adventures.
  • Pay-What-You-Want: Many creators offer their work for free or a small donation.
  • Community Content: Explore homebrew materials and experimental RPGs.
  • Bundles and Sales: Regularly features bundles that support charity or highlight creators.

Why It’s a Great Alternative:

  • Focuses on supporting indie developers and experimental RPGs.
  • Perfect for exploring new and creative game systems.

Best For: Gamers seeking unique or non-traditional RPG content.


5. Roll20

Roll20 is a virtual tabletop platform that provides tools and resources for playing RPGs online.

Key Features:

  • Integrated Rulebooks: Access official rulebooks from D&D, Pathfinder, and more.
  • Digital Tools: Use character sheets, maps, and dice rollers for gameplay.
  • Marketplace: Purchase adventures, tokens, and other resources.
  • Community Content: Find free maps, tokens, and other assets created by users.

Why It’s a Great Alternative:

  • Combines gameplay tools with access to official content.
  • Ideal for running and participating in online RPG sessions.

Best For: Players and dungeon masters running online campaigns.


6. DMs Guild

DMs Guild is a platform for D&D content created by both official publishers and community members.

Key Features:

  • Community Creations: Access homebrew adventures, classes, and modules.
  • Official Content: Features materials from Wizards of the Coast.
  • Revenue Sharing: Creators can publish and sell their work.
  • Wide Variety: Includes resources for all D&D editions.

Why It’s a Great Alternative:

  • Supports both independent creators and official publishers.
  • A treasure trove of unique and creative content.

Best For: D&D players and dungeon masters seeking fresh ideas and adventures.


7. Tabletop Simulator

Tabletop Simulator is a digital platform that allows players to create and play tabletop games online.

Key Features:

  • Game Creation: Build custom games using the platform’s tools.
  • Workshop Content: Access community-created RPG resources and assets.
  • Interactive Gameplay: Use dice, cards, and tokens in a virtual environment.
  • Multiplayer Support: Play with friends across the globe.

Why It’s a Great Alternative:

  • Highly flexible for creating and playing custom games.
  • Ideal for online RPG sessions with friends.

Best For: Gamers looking for a virtual space to play and experiment with tabletop games.


8. Fantasy Grounds

Fantasy Grounds is a dedicated virtual tabletop platform with extensive RPG resources.

Key Features:

  • Official Modules: Includes licensed content from D&D, Pathfinder, and Call of Cthulhu.
  • Automation Tools: Simplifies dice rolls and combat tracking.
  • Custom Content: Import your own maps, tokens, and adventures.
  • Community Support: Engage with an active community of players and creators.

Why It’s a Great Alternative:

  • Perfect for in-depth online campaigns.
  • Combines official content with powerful automation tools.

Best For: Dungeon masters and players running detailed online campaigns.


Comparison Table: The Trove Alternatives

PlatformKey FeaturesBest ForCost
DriveThruRPGOfficial and third-party contentAll RPG systemsFree to $$$
D&D BeyondOfficial D&D tools and rulebooksD&D players and dungeon mastersFree to $$$
PaizoPathfinder and Starfinder resourcesPathfinder/Starfinder playersFree to $$$
Itch.ioIndie RPGs and experimental contentIndie and experimental gamersFree to $$
Roll20Virtual tabletop tools, official contentOnline RPG campaignsFree to $$$
DMs GuildD&D community creationsD&D players and creatorsFree to $$$
Tabletop SimulatorCustom game creationVirtual RPG gaming$$
Fantasy GroundsLicensed modules, automation toolsDetailed online campaigns$$$

Tips for Choosing the Right Alternative

  1. Consider Your Game System: Choose a platform tailored to the RPG system you play, such as D&D or Pathfinder.
  2. Support Creators: Opt for legitimate sources that compensate developers and publishers.
  3. Assess Your Budget: Many platforms offer free resources, but premium features may require a subscription or purchase.
  4. Explore Tools: If you play online, look for platforms with integrated tools like maps and character sheets.
  5. Community Engagement: Join forums or communities to share ideas and access additional resources.

Conclusion

While The Trove offered a centralized source for RPG materials, its shutdown emphasizes the importance of supporting creators and publishers. These The Trove alternatives provide a mix of free and premium resources, catering to a wide range of tabletop gaming needs. From DriveThruRPG and D&D Beyond to Itch.io and Roll20, there’s an option for every type of player and dungeon master.

Choose the platform that best suits your gaming style and enjoy immersive adventures while contributing to the vibrant RPG community!