Introduction
Fantasy maps aren’t just illustrations — they’re invitations into new worlds. One of the most exciting parts of mapmaking is designing mythical landscapes that feel both magical and believable. In this article, we’ll explore how to approach forests, mountains, deserts, and more, so they enrich your world rather than just fill space.
1. Start With Natural Logic
Even the most fantastical terrain benefits from a foundation in reality. Rivers flow downhill. Mountains form where tectonic plates collide. Forests thrive in temperate zones. Begin with logic, then layer on magic. A floating mountain is more impressive when it contrasts with an otherwise realistic landscape.
2. Use Land to Tell Stories
Think of the terrain as part of your world’s mythology. Is there a cursed forest where no one dares enter? A volcano believed to house a sleeping god? The shape and placement of these features should reflect the beliefs and history of your people. Let the map whisper legends through its geography.
3. Symbolism Over Detail
You don’t need to draw every tree or rock. Use map symbols — stylized icons for forests, hills, lakes — to communicate terrain at a glance. Consider how different cultures in your world might draw these symbols differently. A dwarven map might favor angular, geometric mountains, while elves might depict flowing, elegant trees.
4. Think in Layers
Build your landscape in layers:
- Base terrain (continents, seas, mountain ranges)
- Climate zones (forests, deserts, tundra)
- Cultural overlays (cities, ruins, trade routes)
- Mystical elements (ley lines, enchanted zones)
This layered approach keeps your map coherent and full of hidden depth.
Conclusion
A great fantasy landscape draws the eye and sparks the imagination. It suggests adventure, history, danger, and wonder — all without a single line of text. Start with nature, infuse your world’s story, and use stylization to guide the viewer. Before long, your map will feel like a place people could actually walk through… or get lost in.