The Map

The Map, Terrain, Board, or World is the or a representation of the physical or virtual space in which the events of the game occur. Typically, they represent all the possible positions game elements could be. There are multiple types of maps.

Forms
Maps typically come in a freeform format and cell format. Freeform maps are composed of nebulous spaces that flow into each other. They usually use obstacles and decorations to hinder movement and create boundaries. Spaces in freeform maps are more akin to areas than cells in cell maps.

Cell maps are often composed of discrete tessellating units of space. Spaces in cell maps are called cells, tiles, spaces, and (depending on the shape of the cell) squares or hexes. Cell maps usually have strict rules in what movements are possible and events happen on spaces.

Space
The foremost important element of a map is its space. The space of a map dictates the available space and movements available. Typically, only one element could occupy a space, but depending on the format of the map, multiple elements may occupy a singular space. Movements is usually only possible the mover is moving through unoccupied spaces.

Character Units
Character units are elements occupying a space that represent characters or units. Character units are usually mobile and interactable.

Obstacles
Obstacles are usually immobile elements that occupy and obstruct a space. They usually serve double duty: they add decorative flair to the map and limit the movement options of units. Obstacles may also serve as obstructions to a character's field of vision.

Fog of War
A fog of war is veil that conceals the features of the map. Every unit on the map has a radius around them that dispels and reveals what's under the fog of war. This is the field of vision of that character and everything outside of it are unobserved and unseen by that character. A player naturally sees everything the units under their control see.

Not every game with a map has a fog of war. Some games may just rely on objects being off-screen or hidden behind obstacles and walls to have them be effectively unseen.