====== Z-Levels  ====== 

In Questies, **Z-Levels** represent the vertical layers of the [[create:start|World]], such as different floors of a building, underground caves, or floating islands. Z-Levels add depth to the World by organizing locations into layers, but movement between these layers is strictly controlled to maintain structure and immersion.  

==== Key Features of Z-Levels ====  

  * **Vertical Layers**: Z-Levels distinguish different heights or depths, such as the ground floor, basements, or higher levels.  
  * **Points as Transitions**: The only way to move between Z-Levels is through a designated **[[create:points|Point]]**, such as a staircase, cave entrance, or ladder. Points are configured to connect a specific Z-Level to another, allowing controlled transitions between layers.  
  * **Fast Travel Requires Points**: Even with Fast Travel, characters can only access a new Z-Level if a valid transition Point exists. Without a Point linking the desired Z-Level, it remains inaccessible, ensuring consistency and logical World navigation.

==== Example Configurations ====

A **staircase Point** might connect Z-Level 0 (ground floor) to Z-Level 1 (upper floor) with the following settings:  
  * **Z-Transition**: On
  * **Z-Level**: 0  
  * **Connects To**: 1  

Similarly, a **cave entrance Point** could connect Z-Level 0 to Z-Level -1, allowing [[:Players]] to descend underground. These Points allow bidirectional movement, enabling Players to traverse up or down seamlessly.  

==== Gameplay Use  ==== 

Z-Levels add an extra dimension to exploration. They enforce logical transitions, requiring Players to find and use Points to move between levels.

By combining Z-Levels with [[create:gateways|Gateways]], Questies creates a World where every layer and walled area is accessible only through deliberate exploration and interaction.

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