Swamplands vs Overgrown Cobbles: Picking a Wetland Mat
By Mats by Mars - Print-On-Demand Wargaming and Role | Published: 2026-11-01
Category: How-to Guides
Compare Swamplands and Overgrown Cobbles play mats for wetland wargaming terrain, with a step-by-step process to choose and set up the right one.
Quick answer
For a true swamp themed play mat, pick Swamplands; for a mossy play mat setup that mixes wetland edges with ruined stonework, pick Overgrown Cobbles. Both are printed on the same durable matte banner material, so your choice comes down to which terrain story you want to tell.
What each mat brings to wetland terrain
Swamplands leans fully into wetland wargaming terrain: expect a design that reads as boggy ground and waterlogged vegetation. Overgrown Cobbles sits at the boundary between wild growth and built structures, so it suits boards where swampy ground meets old paving or ruins. Neither mat includes modeled water depth or scatter terrain, so you will still need your own pieces to create true cover and elevation.
When the material matters more than the design
Both mats share the same heavy-weight matte banner material with a slight texture that helps keep models from sliding. That texture is a real advantage on smooth tables, but it also means very light plastic miniatures may need a gentle press to sit flat. If you plan to draw on the mat for scenario markers, both are wet-erase compatible; test any marker on a corner first, since not all wet-erase pens behave the same.
Size and overlay choices are not one-size-fits-all
Each mat is available in multiple sizes and with an overlay option. The overlay can add a distinct zone or grid, but it also changes the visual focus of the mat. Before ordering, measure your table and decide whether you want the overlay to support a specific scenario or if a plain design gives you more flexibility across games. Because exact dimensions are not listed in the catalog, confirm the size you need before checkout rather than assuming a standard footprint.
How to choose and set up your wetland mat
- Match the mat to your dominant terrain story: If your board is mostly open bog and marsh, choose Swamplands. If you plan to mix swampy ground with stone ruins or paved areas, choose Overgrown Cobbles. Common mistake: picking a mat that fights your scatter terrain instead of blending with it. Lay out your main terrain pieces on the table first, then pick the mat that fills the gaps.
- Confirm the size and overlay before ordering: Measure your playing area and decide whether an overlay helps your typical scenarios. Check the available size options on the product page and select the one that fits your table without overhang. Common mistake: assuming a standard size without measuring. A mat that is too large will curl at the edges; too small leaves bare table showing.
- Test your wet-erase markers on a corner: Both mats are wet-erase compatible, but pen formulations vary. Before marking a scenario on the main play area, draw a small line on an inconspicuous corner, let it dry, and wipe it off. Common mistake: using permanent markers or leaving wet-erase ink on for days. Keep a dedicated wet-erase pen with your gaming kit and wipe the mat clean after each session.
- Set up models with the texture in mind: The slight texture reduces sliding, but very light models may need a gentle press to settle. Place terrain pieces first, then miniatures, and avoid dragging based models across the printed surface. Common mistake: sliding heavy terrain across the mat, which can scratch the print over time. Lift and place terrain rather than sliding it.
Product facts
- Mats by Mars: Overgrown Cobbles v1.0 Tabletop Wargaming Play Mat: Printed on ultra-durable heavy-weight matte banner material with a slight texture. The texture helps keep models from sliding during play, which is useful on smooth tables.
Mats by Mars: Overgrown Cobbles v1.0 Tabletop Wargaming Play Mat - Mats by Mars: Swamplands v1.0 Tabletop Wargaming Play Mat: Wet-erase compatible and easy to clean. You can mark objectives or spell effects directly on the mat and wipe them off after the game.
Mats by Mars: Swamplands v1.0 Tabletop Wargaming Play Mat
