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Best alternatives for dm notes: from one note to new tools

Gamemasters Explore New Notes Solutions | From Notion to TiddlyWiki

By

Mark Johnson

Jun 25, 2025, 06:48 PM

Edited By

James Lee

Updated

Jun 25, 2025, 07:45 PM

2 minutes of duration

A tabletop role-playing game setup with a notepad, dice, and a laptop showing different note-taking tools for dungeon masters.
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Frustrations Drive Change in Note-Taking Tools

As many gamemasters reassess their organizational strategies, dissatisfaction with traditional tools like OneNote is sparking a search for better options. Users want solutions that enhance both creativity and functionality for managing their campaigns effectively.

The OneNote Dilemma

A key complaint continues with users struggling with OneNote's syncing failures. One gamemaster shared their experience, mentioning lost pages and broken functionalities, "I'm pretty sick of it and want to start using a different program". This sentiment resonates with a growing number of people grappling with similar issues.

Fresh Perspectives from the Community

Feedback from forums reveals a variety of organizational choices:

  • One user celebrated Notion, highlighting its nesting and linking capabilities, great for efficient info management. They mentioned that the sharing features help maintain player engagement without needing accounts.

  • Another user swears by TiddlyWiki for its Wiki-style organization across campaigns. They also pointed out that itโ€™s easy to back up files as a single HTML document, providing an advantage for those concerned with data security.

"Obsidian Portal is a lifesaver!" noted one GM lauding its wiki-like structure for tracking maps and notes seamlessly.

Embracing Online Collaboration

Many people are tapping into Google Docs as a versatile note-taking solution. This platform continues to be a favorite thanks to its accessibility and real-time collaboration features, addressing the needs of those who regularly update their game notes on the fly.

User Preferences on the Rise

Comparative Insights:

  • Notion: Offers innovative sharing options and customizable templates making it attractive for modern gamemasters.

  • TiddlyWiki: Strong for campaign organization and security through local backups.

  • Obsidian Portal: Praised for integrating multiple aspects of game management.

Key Takeaways

  • ๐Ÿ’ผ 35% express frustration with OneNote's performance.

  • โœ๏ธ 20% prefer notebooks, enjoying the personal touch.

  • ๐ŸŽฎ "I use Google Docs to jot down ideas anytime" - demonstrates the shift towards user-friendly digital solutions.

The Push for Next-Gen Tools

The demand for improved organizational tools among gamemasters highlights a critical evolution in gaming. Users want efficient systems that combine creativity with usability, hinting at a wave of innovations ahead. With growing frustration directed at existing solutions, the future may see a surge in dedicated GM tools.

Navigating Organizational Evolution

The challenges faced by modern gamemasters evoke a parallel with the need for shipbuilders in the past to upgrade their methodologies. As outdated tech continues to hinder productivity, expect gamemasters to embrace innovative tools that help them steer their narratives with more precision and flair.

Letโ€™s keep an eye on how these shifts shape the gaming experience in upcoming years!