When Brian Riggsbee first announced Video Game Maps: SNES – Volume 2, I knew I wanted to be part of it. As a lifelong gamer and collector, the Super Nintendo holds a special place in my heart. The book, which showcases the beautifully detailed maps of some of the greatest SNES games, also includes contributions from writers, game developers, journalists, and other gaming enthusiasts. Each contributor shared their thoughts on a favorite game; its world, maps, or something unique about its design.
I knew right away which game I wanted to write about: Illusion of Gaia.
Why Illusion of Gaia?
Among the incredible RPGs on the SNES, Illusion of Gaia stands out to me as one of the best. It was an early example of what RPGs would become, offering players a rich world, engaging gameplay, and unforgettable environments. The graphics at the time were stunning, and while the story might not have been the most complex, it was immersive and fun.
But what really set it apart for me was one level; the Sky Garden.
This level has stuck with me for years. It’s a place where you jump off the edge of the map and suddenly find yourself on the other side, switching between a light and dark version of the level. That kind of design was unlike anything I had seen at the time. It was unique and created an entirely new level of puzzle-solving challenges.
The Importance of Video Game Maps
In an RPG like Illusion of Gaia, maps aren’t just helpful, they’re essential. The game’s world is vast, and getting lost is easy. Finding your way to a boss, locating treasure chests, and unlocking new paths all rely on having a clear sense of where you are.
What Brian’s book does so well is highlight just how much detail and craftsmanship go into these maps. We don’t always stop to appreciate the effort that goes into making a level map not only look great but also function well as a navigational tool. This book highlights that artistry.
Contributing to Video Game Maps: SNES
Brian gave contributors complete creative freedom when sharing our thoughts about our chosen games. Whether we wanted to write something personal, analytical, humorous, or even poetic, it was all fair game. That made the process a lot of fun because it allowed for a variety of perspectives.
Here’s my contribution:
Despite 25 years passing since my last visit to Illusion of Gaia, I still remember the Sky Palace as one of the most unique and creative maps I’ve ever played. The palace has a topside and an underside, both a mirrored version of the other. You have to jump off the edges to flip around to each side to solve various puzzles. For example, you could hit a switch to push a wall up on one side, which would move the wall down on the other side, letting you through an area you couldn’t get to before. You also had to switch between characters to use each of their abilities to solve some of the puzzles. It was both challenging and lots of fun.
Here’s another one from Heather Anne Campbell, the host of one my favorite podcasts, Get Played.
It’s a lot of fun to see what others had to say about their favorite SNES games.
Why This Book Is a Must-Have for Retro Gaming Fans
At its core, the Video Game Maps: SNES collection is a must-have for game collectors. There are three volumes. Volume 1 is already out, Volume 2 (the one I contributed to) is on pre-order and will ship in the spring, and Volume 3 will come out likely later this year. These are the kinds of books that belong on the coffee table of any retro gaming enthusiast.
The photography and layout are stunning, and each two-page spread is dedicated to a different game. It’s a book that allows you to relive these classic worlds in a new way, appreciating the artistry and detail of their maps.
For those interested, you can grab a copy at retrogamebooks.com. The hardcover edition is available for $42, and there’s a special bundle for $65, which includes an art print, bookmark, sticker, and notebook. If you’re a fan of SNES games, this is a book you won’t want to miss.