Resource Roundup #1: Worldbuilding
Finding truly helpful writing resources when you need them can be difficult and time-consuming, especially for new writers. I’ve compiled a handy list of some of my favorite resources for your convenience!
Azgaar’s Fantasy Map Generator: A free map generator for any of your creative needs. You can use your map in any creative project, including for-profit ventures. I love this tool because you can get as involved in the minutiae as you’d like. There’s even a Discord and a wiki page available if you need help figuring out the tools! Maps can be saved on your computer, and you can use it without internet access.
The Grainbound: An extremely entertaining, informative YouTube channel that helps you think through the logistics of your world. The creator also posts free worksheets on his website to go with each video. They also have a Discord server!
Timothy Hickson’s On Writing and Worldbuilding books: A book series dedicated to helping writers with their worldbuilding and their craft. Volumes contain different topics, so choose the one that has what you need. I have a copy of every volume Tim’s released so far, and I love them, especially as physical references that don’t depend on internet access. Plus, the spectacular cover art is made by extremely talented artists.
Hello Future Me: Timothy Hickson’s YouTube channel. He covers a wide range of topics from craft-related questions to worldbuilding help and even analyzes other stories.
Why Fictional Religions Feel So Fake: A fantastic YouTube video by ReligionForBreakfast, a university-level scholar on religion. I find all of his videos interesting, but he exposes what makes a fictional religion feel real and how to replicate that in your own worldbuilding.
The most important thing to remember when worldbuilding is this: you don’t have to know everything to start writing. Some of my best worldbuilding work comes from running into a gap as I write and having to brainstorm something that works. Lean into what you find interesting in your world and stay true to it!
The next Resource Roundup will focus on the craft of writing. See you there!
