Fantasy worldbuilding is more than just drawing a map and naming a few kingdoms. It’s about creating a living, breathing entity with its own history, cultures, and magic systems.
Whether you’re writing a novel, designing a game, or simply letting your imagination run wild, these tips will help you craft a truly immersive and believable fantasy world.
This is the first part of my series on fantasy worldbuilding. The other parts are listed below:
- –> 1: General Worldbuilding Tips
- 2: Geographical Worldbuilding
- 3: Creating Your Nations
The worlds of Malazan, the greater universe of the Cosmere, and Middle Earth provide stellar examples of some of the best worldbuilding that exists in fantasy. Read this guide to find out how they did it.
1. Worldbuilding Your Geography and Environment
Go Beyond the Map: Don’t just outline continents. Consider mountain ranges, rivers, forests, and deserts. How do these geographical features influence the climate, trade routes, and the distribution of resources?
Environmental Storytelling: A harsh desert environment might breed hardy, resourceful people, while a fertile valley could support a more opulent civilization. Let your environment shape your societies.
Hidden Wonders: Sprinkle in unique landmarks or natural phenomena. A glowing forest, a waterfall that flows upwards, or a city carved into a mountainside can add intrigue and a sense of wonder.
2. Worldbuilding Your Cultures and Societies
Diversity is Key: Create a variety of cultures with distinct customs, languages, religions, and values. Draw inspiration from real-world cultures, but add your own unique twist.
Show, Don’t Tell: Instead of stating facts, reveal cultural nuances through characters’ interactions, clothing, food, and architecture.
Conflict and Cooperation: How do these different societies interact? Are there ancient rivalries, trade alliances, or hidden tensions?
3. building Your Magic Systems
Define the Rules: Establish clear rules for your magic system. What are its sources, limitations, and consequences? Avoid making magic a convenient solution to every problem.
Magic’s Impact: How does magic affect society, technology, and warfare? Does it create social hierarchies or fuel conflicts?
Unique Magic Systems: Explore different forms of magic, such as elemental manipulation, psychic abilities, or nature-based magic.
4. Worldbuilding Your History and Lore
A Rich History: Craft a timeline of significant events, wars, and legendary figures. This history will shape your world’s present and influence its future.
Myths and Legends: Create folklore, prophecies, and creation myths that add depth and mystery to your world.
Lost Civilizations: Hint at ancient ruins, forgotten languages, and hidden artifacts that offer glimpses into the past.
5. The Natural World: Fauna & Flora
Fantastic Beasts: Populate your world with unique creatures, both mundane and magical. Consider their roles in the ecosystem and their interactions with humans.
Plants with Purpose: Imagine plants with unusual properties – healing herbs, poisonous flowers, or trees that bear magical fruit.
Adaptations: How have creatures adapted to the environment and the presence of magic?
6. Internal logic & Consistency
Avoid Plot Holes: Ensure that your world’s rules, magic system, and history remain consistent throughout your story or game.
Cause and Effect: Every action should have consequences, and every element of your world should have a reason for existing.
Revise and Refine: Worldbuilding is an ongoing process. Don’t be afraid to revisit and revise your world as you develop your story.
Summary
By following these tips, you can craft a captivating fantasy world that draws readers or players in and leaves them wanting more. Remember, the most important ingredient is your imagination. Let it soar, and your world will come to life.
See how I put these tips into action in my own worlds, starting with The Great Leap.
More in this Worldbuilding series
If you’d like to read more about worldbuilding, please check out the other articles from this series:
- –> 1: General Worldbuilding Tips
- 2: Geographical Worldbuilding
- 3: Creating Your Nations