Settinghighlands

Settinghighlands is a term used in worldbuilding and narrative design to describe a highland setting used in fictional works or game design. It refers to a geographic and cultural milieu characterized by high elevations, rugged terrain, and climate extremes that shape inhabitants and daily life.

Geography and climate: Elevations typically exceed coastal or plain regions, featuring mountains, plateaus, and alpine valleys. The climate tends toward cool summers and cold winters, with thin air and rapid weather changes. Terrain creates hazards such as landslides and avalanches, while passes influence trade and travel.

Societal and cultural aspects: Settlements cluster in sheltered valleys and terraced plateaus, using stone architecture and adapted infrastructure. Economies often rely on mining, animal husbandry, and terrace farming. Social life can emphasize isolation, mutual aid across passes, or rival clans connected by mountain routes.

In media and usage: Settinghighlands appears in fantasy novels, role-playing games, and video games as a backdrop for exploration, conquest, and survival. Worldbuilders stress geographic consistency, unique flora and fauna, and lore tied to mountains, weather spirits, and altitude-derived customs.

Origin and scope: The term is descriptive rather than a formal geographic category and is used by writers and designers to classify highland settings. Its scope varies by work, but common traits include elevation, rugged terrain, climate pressure, and resilient cultures.