Combat in virtual tabletops can be one of the most dynamic and complex parts of the game—but it can also be one of the most time-consuming. Whether you're casting an area spell, using a ranged ability, or lining up the perfect cone attack, manually selecting each target can be tedious. Worse, misclicks and ambiguous line-of-sight can slow the flow of battle.
That’s where the Smart Target module comes in. Built to streamline target selection and combat resolution, Smart Target enhances how players and GMs interact with the battlefield—bringing automation, clarity, and precision to every turn.
What Is Smart Target?
Smart Target is a quality-of-life module for Foundry VTT that automatically determines which tokens fall within the area of an attack, spell, or effect template. When you draw a measured template—like a cone, line, or circle—the module can instantly highlight or target all valid tokens inside that area, based on customizable settings.
In short, it removes the guesswork from targeting and speeds up combat without sacrificing tactical nuance.
Key Features
Auto-Targeting Within Templates
Once a spell template is drawn (e.g., 15-foot cone, 20-foot radius), Smart Target can instantly select all tokens that fall within the area. This is especially useful for spells like Fireball, Burning Hands, or Lightning Bolt.
Precision Line-of-Sight Calculations
Smart Target supports both center-to-center and edge-to-edge calculations, meaning it can respect walls, cover, and line-of-sight rules if you choose to enable them.
Configurable Behavior
You can adjust how aggressive the auto-targeting is, choose whether it considers hidden tokens, and control whether it auto-targets for players, GMs, or both. It also allows toggling whether targets must be wholly or partially within the area.
Works with Foundry's Built-In Tools
Smart Target is designed to complement—not replace—Foundry’s core measured template system. It enhances functionality without overcomplicating the user experience.
How It Improves Gameplay
Here’s where Smart Target makes a noticeable impact:
- Faster Combat: Instead of manually clicking every affected token, players can draw a template and act. This keeps the action moving.
- Greater Accuracy: Tokens are only targeted if they’re truly in range—based on settings you control. No more “eyeballing” and disputes.
- Tactical Clarity: GMs can quickly see who’s caught in a blast, or which enemies fall into a spell radius, making descriptions and results more cinematic.
- Better for New Players: Reduces the learning curve for those unfamiliar with how targeting works in Foundry or their game system.
Installation and Setup
- Go to Foundry’s Module Browser and search for Smart Target.
- Install and activate the module in your world.
- Visit the module settings to customize behavior (auto-targeting rules, visibility, token types affected, etc.).
- Draw a measured template during your game—and let Smart Target do the rest.
If you're using systems like D&D 5e, PF2e, or any game where AoEs are frequent, the improvement in flow is immediately noticeable.
Integration with Other Modules
Smart Target plays well with others. It’s particularly useful when combined with:
- Midi-QOL: For automated attack and save rolls once targets are selected.
- Sequencer and Token Magic FX: For adding effects that match the auto-selected area.
- About Time or Combat Utility Belt: For managing initiative or turn-based timing alongside Smart Target triggers.
It’s also a great companion to Perfect Vision or Levels if you’re running line-of-sight sensitive encounters.
Tips and Best Practices
- Use Edge-to-Edge Targeting: Especially helpful when working with larger tokens or irregular maps.
- Enable for Players and GMs: So everyone benefits, not just the DM.
- Test with Complex Terrain: Make sure to try it out in a test scene if you use verticality or dense obstacles.
- Combine with Macros: Trigger animations or results based on Smart Target’s selections for quick and immersive resolution.
Final Thoughts
The Smart Target module doesn’t just make targeting easier—it makes it smarter. By removing busywork and uncertainty from area-based abilities, it enhances clarity and keeps players immersed in the flow of combat. It’s especially valuable in groups that rely on tactical decision-making and fast turn cycles.
If you're looking to reduce friction and increase the tactical sharpness of your Foundry sessions, Smart Target is a strong addition to your module suite—quietly powerful, and immediately useful.
