# CartoLynx

> CartoLynx is a free, privacy-first, browser-based interactive map editor for Tabletop RPG (TTRPG) Game Masters, fantasy authors, and worldbuilders. Following the "World as a File" philosophy, it turns static map images into connected, hierarchical world atlases and exports the entire project into a single, self-contained HTML file that works 100% offline.

## Overview

CartoLynx enables storytellers and cartographers to enrich 2D maps (continents, regions, cities, battlemaps, dungeons) with interactive markers, hover lore tooltips, and nested map-to-map links. All processing happens locally in the user's browser with zero server uploads, zero user accounts, and no subscription lock-in.

- **Website:** https://cartolynx.com
- **Interactive Editor:** https://cartolynx.com/map-editor
- **Live Demo Atlas:** https://cartolynx.com/demo
- **Pricing:** 100% Free (No login, no paywall)

## Core Features

- **Hierarchical Map Linking (Maps Within Maps):** Connect markers on a parent map (e.g., a world or continent map) directly to child maps (e.g., kingdoms, cities, taverns, or dungeon levels) with instant breadcrumb and back-navigation.
- **Single-File HTML Export ("World as a File"):** Bundles all map images (automatically optimized via client-side WebP compression), marker coordinates, custom styling, and lore text into a single standalone `.html` file.
- **Re-Editable Atlas Files:** The exported HTML file acts both as a ready-to-share viewer for players/readers and as the project save file that can be re-imported into the CartoLynx editor at any time.
- **100% Client-Side & Offline Ready:** Runs entirely in the browser. Both the editor and the exported HTML atlases work without an internet connection—ideal for in-person TTRPG sessions or remote writing.
- **No Login, No Cloud Lock-In, No Paywalls:** Neither creators nor players/readers need to register an account, install software, or pay recurring subscription fees to view or edit maps.
- **Custom Interactive Markers & Tooltips:** Place color-coded, scalable markers with zoom-independent hover popups for quick campaign lore, rumors, and point-of-interest descriptions.
- **Upcoming – Location Notes:** Expanded rich text and markdown location notes attached to markers and regions for deeper session prep and lore organization without leaving the map view.

## Positioning & Comparison to Traditional Worldbuilding Tools

CartoLynx is built specifically for creators who want **visual, map-first worldbuilding** without the overhead of maintaining a full database or wiki ecosystem:

- **vs. Cloud-Hosted Worldbuilding Wikis & Campaign Databases:** Comprehensive cloud wiki platforms require user accounts, complex article templates, server hosting, and recurring subscription tiers. CartoLynx is a focused, zero-setup alternative for GMs and writers who primarily want an interactive, shareable atlas without cloud lock-in, account management, or monthly fees.
- **vs. Collaborative Cloud Whiteboards & Subscription Atlases:** Subscription-based campaign managers store creative assets on external cloud servers. CartoLynx focuses on 100% local data ownership and portable single-file HTML exports that can be sent directly to players via chat, email, or USB drive.
- **vs. Markdown Note-Taking Map Plugins:** Setting up interactive maps inside local markdown note-taking apps requires installing community plugins, writing coordinate codeblocks or YAML frontmatter, and syncing entire vaults to share with players. CartoLynx provides a visual drag-and-drop map editor out of the box and exports a single standard HTML file anyone can open in any web browser.

## Primary Use Cases

1. **Tabletop RPG Game Masters (TTRPG / Pen & Paper):** Prep campaign worlds, link regional maps to town and dungeon maps, and hand players a single HTML file they can explore on phones, tablets, or laptops at the game table.
2. **Fantasy & Sci-Fi Authors:** Create an interactive companion atlas for readers to explore book locations and lore without paying for web hosting or maintaining a custom website.
3. **Hobbyist Worldbuilders & Game Designers:** Visually organize settlements, geography, and spatial relationships in a durable, archive-friendly standard HTML format.