how to duplicate characters roll20

3 min read 16-01-2025

Roll20 is a fantastic virtual tabletop platform, but managing multiple characters can become cumbersome. This guide will walk you through several methods to duplicate characters in Roll20, saving you time and effort. Whether you need copies for different campaigns, backup characters, or simply to experiment with builds, we've got you covered.

Method 1: The Manual Copy-Paste Method (For Basic Duplication)

This method is best for simple character sheets without complex macros or linked information.

Step 1: Export Your Character Sheet:

Open the character sheet you want to duplicate.
Click the "Export" button located in the top right corner of your character sheet.
Choose to export as JSON. This format preserves most of your character's data.

Step 2: Import the Exported Character Sheet:

Create a new character sheet in the same campaign or a new one.
Click the "Import" button (located next to the "Export" button).
Select the JSON file you just exported.
Roll20 will import the character sheet, creating a near-perfect duplicate.

Step 3: Review and Edit:

Carefully review the imported character sheet. Double-check all attributes, skills, and equipment. Make necessary adjustments as needed, especially if you were using linked macros or custom scripts. The import may not always perfectly transfer every aspect.

Method 2: Using Roll20's "Duplicate" Feature (for simpler sheets)

While not an explicit "duplicate" button, Roll20 offers a quick workaround for straightforward character sheets:

Step 1: Create a New Character:

Start by creating a new character sheet in your campaign. The base attributes will be blank.

Step 2: Copy and Paste Manually:

Carefully copy and paste relevant information from your original character sheet into the new one. This includes:

Attributes: Strength, Dexterity, Constitution, etc.
Skills: Proficiencies, expertise, etc.
Inventory: Items, weapons, armor, etc.

Step 3: Import Image:

Remember to import the character's portrait image to the new sheet. This is usually done by uploading the image directly from your computer into the character sheet's dedicated image slot.

Limitations: This method is time-consuming and doesn't transfer custom macros or complex linked data.

Method 3: Utilizing Third-Party Tools (For Advanced Users and Complex Sheets)

For users with intricate character sheets containing numerous macros, custom scripts, or complex linked data, using a third-party tool might be necessary. There are various community-created tools and scripts available that can assist with more comprehensive character duplication. However, use caution and always ensure the tool's reliability and safety. Check for user reviews and documentation before implementation.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Missing Macros: Macros, especially custom ones, are often not transferred completely. You might need to recreate them manually in the duplicated sheet.
Linked Data Issues: If your character sheet relies on linked data, ensure these links are properly updated in the duplicated sheet.
Image Issues: Occasionally, images don't import correctly. Re-upload the character's image manually to the new sheet.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I duplicate a character across different campaigns?

A: Yes, you can use either the export/import method or the manual copy-paste method to duplicate a character and then import it into a new campaign.

Q: What if I'm using a character sheet from a marketplace?

A: The process is generally the same. Export and import as JSON, but be aware that some complex sheets might need additional manual adjustments post-import.

Conclusion

Duplicating characters in Roll20 efficiently depends on the complexity of your character sheet. For basic characters, the built-in features suffice. However, advanced character sheets might require the export/import method or, in some cases, assistance from third-party tools. By following the methods above, you can easily create copies of your characters and streamline your workflow. Remember to always back up your work!