How to Use YouTube for Playlists in Foundry

Introduction

Foundry Virtual Tabletop (VTT) is a powerful tool for tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs) that offers immersive features, including background music and sound effects. One of the easiest ways to add music to your sessions is by using YouTube playlists.

In this blog, we’ll guide you through the process of integrating YouTube playlists into Foundry, enhancing the atmosphere of your campaigns and creating unforgettable experiences for your players.

Why Use YouTube Playlists in Foundry?

1. Variety of Content:

   • YouTube hosts millions of tracks, from epic soundtracks to ambient background noises.

2. Ease of Access:

   • Curated playlists are readily available and cover every genre or mood.

3. Free Resource:

   • Using YouTube for playlists can be a budget-friendly way to add music to your game.

4. Player Immersion:

   • Background music can enhance the storytelling, evoke emotions, and set the scene perfectly.

Setting Up YouTube Playlists in Foundry

1. Create or Find a YouTube Playlist

• Create Your Playlist:

  • Log in to YouTube and curate a playlist of tracks suitable for your campaign.

  • Keep it organized by themes, such as battle music, exploration, or tavern ambiance.

• Use Existing Playlists:

  • Search YouTube for playlists with keywords like “TTRPG music,” “fantasy ambiance,” or “epic battle soundtrack.”

2. Use a Foundry Audio Module

Foundry does not natively support YouTube links. To integrate YouTube playlists, you’ll need an audio module like:

• SoundBoard: Allows you to control music and effects easily.

• Playlist Importer Modules: Some modules support streaming YouTube content directly.

3. Convert YouTube Links to Playable Files

If streaming is not feasible, you can convert YouTube videos to audio files:

• Use a YouTube-to-MP3 converter (ensure compliance with copyright laws).

• Upload the converted files to Foundry’s Assets Library.

4. Add Music to Foundry’s Playlist System

• In Foundry, navigate to the Audio Playlists tab.

• Create a new playlist and name it based on the theme (e.g., “Dungeon Exploration”).

• Upload your audio files or link to supported external sources.

5. Organize Playlists for Easy Access

• Group playlists based on gameplay scenarios.

• Assign hotkeys or shortcuts to quickly switch between playlists during sessions.

Tips for Using YouTube Playlists in Foundry

1. Preload Music Before Sessions:

   • Test all tracks to ensure smooth playback.

2. Loop Tracks:

   • Use looping for ambient music or repetitive themes.

3. Adjust Volume Levels:

   • Balance music and sound effects so they don’t overpower dialogue or gameplay.

4. Check Copyright Rules:

   • Ensure that your use of YouTube music complies with copyright and fair use policies.

5. Engage Players:

   • Ask players for music preferences to make the game more enjoyable for everyone.

FAQs About Using YouTube Playlists in Foundry

Q: Can I stream YouTube playlists directly in Foundry?
A: Yes, with specific modules that support YouTube links. However, a stable internet connection is required for seamless playback.

Q: Are there copyright concerns when using YouTube music?
A: Always check the copyright status of tracks. Use royalty-free or Creative Commons-licensed music whenever possible.

Q: Can I use Foundry without additional modules?
A: You can still upload local files to Foundry’s playlist system, but modules provide more flexibility.

Q: What are some good YouTube channels for TTRPG music?
A: Channels like Tabletop Audio, RPG Music Maker, and Fantasy Music by Derek & Brandon Fiechter offer great options.

Q: Do players hear the music automatically in Foundry?
A: Yes, once the playlist is activated, players connected to the session will hear the music through the Foundry interface.

Conclusion

Using YouTube playlists in Foundry is an excellent way to enhance your TTRPG sessions. With the right setup, you can create an immersive atmosphere that brings your stories to life. Whether you’re streaming directly or using converted files, the options are vast and adaptable to your campaign’s needs.