Resources
How exports work
For GMs, indie developers, and anyone shipping a hexcrawl or prototype overworld.
Quick summary
| Export type | Layout & logic | Tile images | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Map JSON | Yes | No — keys only | Re-import into Hexus, custom tools, game logic |
| Texture keys JSON | Partial | No | Know which overlays a map uses |
| PNG / SVG | Visual only | Yes — baked in | VTT, print, sharing, portfolios |
Rule of thumb: Use PNG or SVG when you need a finished picture. Use JSON when you need structured map data — and plan how you will supply art separately.
Map JSON
A downloaded or copied Map JSON file is a full snapshot of your board. It includes hex coordinates, terrain, overlay layer keys, edge features, annotations (including optional GM-only flags), and project metadata.
- Included: tiles, style overrides, edge features, annotations, project meta, editor mode.
- Not included: image bytes, automatic zip of built-in or marketplace art, or a license to redistribute Hexus built-in artwork.
PNG and SVG
Raster and vector exports bake visible terrain and overlays into a single file. They are self-contained for VTTs, handouts, and sharing — viewers do not need Hexus or JSON.
Built-in artwork & licensing
- Allowed: Painting maps in Hexus; exporting PNG/SVG for your table or VTT; exporting JSON for layout and logic when you supply art separately.
- Not allowed: Redistributing or reselling Hexus built-in tile images as a standalone art pack or shipping those images inside a commercial game without your own licensed art.
- Marketplace packs: Follow each pack’s license tier. Pro may be required to materialize granted pack assets into your editor library.
Custom overlays and backgrounds you upload remain yours, subject to our Terms of Service.
FAQ
Can I use exported PNGs in a commercial game?
Built-in art in PNG/SVG is for table, VTT, and portfolio use — not for embedding Hexus stock tiles in a shipped commercial product. Use your own art or properly licensed marketplace packs for commercial games.
Does JSON include my overlay images?
No. JSON stores keys and layout only. Pair JSON with your own art pipeline or re-open the map in Hexus.
Where do I export in the editor?
Open Export map in the editor panel. Signed-in users can export PNG, SVG, Map JSON, and texture keys. The demo editor keeps work local until you create a free account.
Known limitations
Hexus is a hex map editor — paint, save, and export. It is not a VTT or campaign manager. Free includes one cloud slot; Pro includes five. VTT presets are dimension helpers for PNG/SVG, not one-click module imports. Demo mode keeps work in local storage until you export and re-import after signup.