Hey there KNOXX Nerds!
This week, I fell down a fascinating rabbit hole…
It started with a simple search for WordPress map plugins (boring, I know), but ended with me discovering something that completely changed how I think about bringing the KNOXX universe to life.
See, I’ve always thought good maps were essential for worldbuilding…
They help you visualize locations, understand relationships between places and quickly navigate complex fictional worlds.
But then I stumbled on a Reddit thread about something WAYYYYY more immersive and suddenly maps seemed… flat…
Literally…
The KNOXX world isn’t flat (anymore)
What if instead of looking at a map of Bo Stone’s apartment, you could actually stand in it?
What if rather than seeing Hollywood or Aetherpoint as colored shapes on a screen, you could experience the towering spires and neon signs from street level?
SIDENOTE: both places are under construction at the time of writing this —because I don't have maps for them yet...Using AI tools, I’ve developed a process for creating immersive 3D panoramic maps of key KNOXX locations!
These panoramas let you explore these spaces with interactive hotspots that reveal chapter elements, character backgrounds and hidden details…
Here’s the thing:
Flat maps give you information, but immersive experiences create emotional connections.
It’s the difference between reading about a place and feeling like you’ve actually been there…
And isn’t that exactly what we’re all seeking with great sci-fi?
Not just to understand new worlds intellectually, but to feel transported into them?
It’s really easy for me to imagine exploring all the “dots” popping up on one of these 360 maps of New Manhattan knowing one leads down another small sci-fi journey with massive pay offs along the way…
I’ve created a couple test panoramas for you to experience.
I really need your thoughts and ideas on this:
Take a look and let me know what you think…
This is just a glimpse of where KNOXX+ is heading – a more immersive, emotionally engaging way to experience this universe we’re building together.
Peace and Love,
J. Young El
