How To Discover Series with Exceptional World-Building

World-building is an essential aspect of storytelling that brings fictional universes to life. Whether in books, movies, or television shows, a well-developed world serves as the foundation for the characters, plotlines, and themes. For fans of speculative fiction, fantasy, science fiction, and even historical dramas, finding series that excel in world-building can be a rewarding experience. This article explores how to discover series with exceptional world-building, delving into key aspects of world-building, what to look for in a well-built world, and how to explore these fictional realms in a way that enhances the storytelling experience.

What Is World-Building?

World-building refers to the process of creating an expansive, immersive, and consistent fictional universe. It goes beyond simply crafting a setting for the story; it involves designing the culture, economy, history, politics, religion, geography, and even the laws of nature within the world. A great world-builder constructs a place that feels as rich and complex as the real world, making it a character in its own right.

In speculative genres like fantasy and science fiction, world-building is often a primary component of the story, while in other genres, it serves to support the narrative. Whether the world is a fantastical kingdom, a post-apocalyptic wasteland, or an alternate reality, the world must feel grounded in its own logic and rules.

Key Components of Exceptional World-Building

World-building is an intricate process that involves many components, each contributing to the immersive quality of the story. The best world-building is not only expansive but also detailed, consistent, and internally logical. Below are some of the essential components to look for when searching for series with exceptional world-building:

1. History and Lore

A well-developed world has a rich and compelling history that influences the present events of the story. This history is often communicated through legends, myths, historical events, or even ancient texts within the world. Understanding the world's past can shed light on why things are the way they are, from power struggles to cultural divides.

For example, in Game of Thrones (A Song of Ice and Fire series by George R.R. Martin), the intricate histories of the noble houses, the ancient wars, and the rise and fall of dynasties all contribute to the tension and drama of the present-day plot. The history of Westeros is a character in itself, affecting every decision made by the protagonists and antagonists.

2. Cultural Diversity

A world that feels truly alive is one that showcases a variety of cultures, customs, and languages. Whether it's the distinct societal norms of a fantasy kingdom or the technological innovations of a futuristic city, cultural diversity adds layers to the narrative. It allows for conflict, contrast, and complexity, which are often central to the plot.

In J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings, the cultures of different races, such as the Elves, Dwarves, and Men, are distinct and play a vital role in the development of the story. These cultures are more than just superficial differences; they are deeply embedded in the world's history, shaping everything from politics to philosophy.

3. Magic and Technology Systems

A core part of speculative fiction, particularly in fantasy and science fiction, is the introduction of magical systems or futuristic technologies. For world-building to feel compelling, these systems must have clear rules, limitations, and consequences. A well-developed magic or technology system adds depth to the world, creating opportunities for conflict, discovery, and growth.

In Brandon Sanderson's Mistborn series, the magic system (Allomancy) is both complex and structured, with clear rules and limitations. The use of metals to produce various magical effects is central to the plot and builds the world in a way that is consistent and predictable, making the world feel authentic.

4. Geography and Environmental Influence

The environment in which a story takes place has a significant impact on the characters and their actions. The geography of a world can shape everything from its economy to its culture to its military strategies. Harsh deserts, lush forests, towering mountains, and deep oceans all create unique challenges and opportunities for the inhabitants of that world.

The Earthsea series by Ursula K. Le Guin is a prime example of how geography influences world-building. The islands of Earthsea, each with its own ecosystem and culture, are critical to the plot and the characters' journeys. The geography is intertwined with the magical system, and the setting is as much a character as any of the human protagonists.

5. Political and Social Structures

No world is complete without the intricate systems of governance, class, and power that drive the actions of its people. Whether it's an oligarchic society, a monarchy, or a republic, political systems are crucial in shaping how conflicts arise and how characters interact with each other. Social structures, including class divisions, gender roles, and racial hierarchies, also play a significant role in world-building.

In The Expanse series by James S.A. Corey, the political tensions between Earth, Mars, and the Belt create a complex web of alliances, rivalries, and power struggles. The socioeconomic divisions between these factions, alongside their distinct cultures and technologies, create a world that feels fully realized and deeply invested in the story's themes.

6. Religion and Mythology

The inclusion of religion or mythology within a fictional world can add another layer of depth, offering explanations for the world's creation, its natural laws, and the behavior of its people. The role of religion in society can influence everything from politics to personal identity, and mythological tales can offer insights into the world's history and values.

In the Dune series by Frank Herbert, religion plays a significant role in shaping the political landscape. The Bene Gesserit sisterhood, with their secretive and powerful ways, is rooted in religious practice, and the idea of a "messiah" is a central theme that drives the plot forward. The intersection of religion, politics, and power in Dune creates a complex and immersive world.

How to Discover Series with Exceptional World-Building

Now that we've explored what makes world-building exceptional, it's time to consider how you can find series that excel in this area. Discovering these kinds of series requires a bit of effort and a discerning eye. Here are some strategies to help you uncover works with exceptional world-building.

1. Follow Recommendations from Dedicated Communities

Fans of world-building often congregate in online forums, book clubs, and fan groups where they share recommendations for shows, movies, and books that excel in this area. Websites like Reddit, Goodreads, and specialized book or TV forums are great places to start. Look for discussions about series that are praised for their depth of world-building.

For example, subreddits dedicated to speculative fiction often have threads discussing the best world-building in both books and TV shows. Engaging in these communities and reading reviews can help you find hidden gems.

2. Explore Awards and Nominations

Series that receive awards or nominations in categories like "Best World-Building" or "Best Speculative Fiction" are often great places to start your search. The Hugo Awards, Nebula Awards, and Locus Awards, for instance, are prestigious honors for science fiction and fantasy works, many of which feature exceptional world-building. Checking out the nominees and winners of these awards can lead you to series that prioritize the creation of detailed, immersive worlds.

3. Look for Authors and Creators Known for World-Building

Certain authors and creators have built a reputation for their ability to craft incredible worlds. If you enjoy the world-building in one work by a particular author, it's worth exploring their other works. Some renowned authors for exceptional world-building include:

• J.R.R. Tolkien (The Lord of the Rings)
• George R.R. Martin (A Song of Ice and Fire)
• Isaac Asimov (Foundation)
• Frank Herbert (Dune)
• Brandon Sanderson (Stormlight Archive)
• Ursula K. Le Guin (Earthsea)

Similarly, in the realm of television and film, directors like Peter Jackson (The Lord of the Rings ), Ridley Scott (Blade Runner ), and George Lucas (Star Wars) have made their names by creating memorable, expansive worlds.

4. Look for Long-Running Series with Expansive Universes

Many series with great world-building are the result of long-term investment in a single universe. These series often feature multiple seasons, books, or movies, each adding to the overall depth of the world. Such series provide the space for creators to develop intricate systems and layers that make the world feel more lived-in.

Some examples of series with expansive worlds include:

• The Wheel of Time (Books by Robert Jordan)
• Star Wars (Movies and Expanded Universe)
• The Expanse (Books by James S.A. Corey and TV show)
• Star Trek (TV show and movies)
• Doctor Who (TV show)

These series are designed to unfold over time, adding complexity and depth to their worlds with each installment.

5. Read Reviews and Critiques

Before diving into a series, reading reviews or critiques from fans and experts can give you an idea of the world-building quality. Many reviews discuss the depth of the setting, the coherence of the world's rules, and how well the world complements the story. Critiques can offer insights into how the world-building enhances or detracts from the overall experience.

Websites like Tor.com, The Verge, and io9 provide thoughtful reviews on speculative fiction, often diving into the world-building aspects of the stories they cover.

6. Watch Trailers and Teasers

In the case of television shows and movies, trailers and teasers can provide a glimpse into the world. Pay attention to how the setting is introduced and how much detail is given to the environment, cultures, and systems. A good trailer will hint at the complexity of the world, teasing key elements that will unfold as the series progresses.

For instance, the trailers for The Witcher series on Netflix focus on the detailed world of the Continent, hinting at the diverse cultures, political systems, and supernatural elements that will be explored in the show.

Conclusion

Discovering series with exceptional world-building is a thrilling journey for any fan of speculative fiction. These worlds provide not just settings for stories but immersive, living environments that influence every aspect of the narrative. Whether through history, culture, geography, politics, or magical systems, world-building is an art that makes the fictional worlds feel as real and complex as our own. By seeking recommendations, exploring awards, and paying attention to creators known for their world-building prowess, you can uncover new series that will transport you to fascinating, fully realized universes.

View Product