Grasslands
Vast ecosystems dominated by grasses, shaped by nature and human activity.
DimiTalen · CC0
A grassland is an area (or ecosystem) where the vegetation is dominated by grasses. Sedges and rushes can also be found along with some legumes such as clover and other herbs. Grasslands occur naturally on all continents except Antarctica and are found in most ecoregions of the Earth. Furthermore, grasslands are one of the largest biomes on Earth, covering 31–69% of the Earth's land area. There are different types of grasslands: natural grasslands, semi-natural grasslands, and agricultural grasslands.
- Franchise
- Flower
- Developer
- Thatgamecompany
- Primary Mechanic
- Wind-based gliding and petal collection
- Atmosphere
- Peaceful, vibrant, exploratory
Lore & Background
The graminoids became widespread toward the end of the Cretaceous period. The appearance of mountains in the western United States during the Miocene and Pliocene epochs created a continental climate favourable to the evolution of grasslands. Around 5 million years ago during the Late Miocene in the New World and the Pliocene in the Old World, the first true grasslands occurred. Grasslands have existed in Europe throughout the Pleistocene. Following the Pleistocene ice ages, grasslands expanded in hotter, drier climates. Semi-natural grasslands first appeared when humans started farming, as forests got cleared in Europe. Ancient meadows and pastures were the parts suitable for cultivation, and semi-natural grasslands were formed from these areas.
In Their Own Story
The morning sun warms the tall stalks as a gentle breeze begins to stir. A single petal detaches, caught in an updraft that spirals upward into the azure sky. As more petals join the current, they form a swirling ribbon of color that dances across the valley floor. The wind picks up speed, carrying the scent of blooming life toward the distant horizon, inviting the traveler to follow the path where the grass sways in rhythm with the air.
Reader's Guide
Grassland vegetation can vary considerably depending on the grassland type and on how strong it is affected by human impact. Dominant trees for semi-natural grassland are Quercus robur, Betula pendula, Corylus avellana, Crataegus and many kinds of herbs. In chalk grassland, plants can vary from very tall to very short. Woody plants, shrubs or trees may occur on some grasslands, forming savannas, scrubby grassland or semi-wooded grassland. Grasses grow in great concentrations in climates where annual rainfall ranges between 500 and 900 mm. The root systems of perennial grasses and forbs form complex mats that hold the soil in place.
Did You Know?
- Grasslands cover 31–69% of the Earth's land area.
- Semi-natural grasslands are one of the world's most biodiverse habitats on small spatial scales.
- A European record found on a meadow in Estonia described 76 species of plants in one square meter.
- Almost 90% of European semi-natural grasslands have disappeared during the 20th century.
Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
What role does the Grasslands play in Flower?
It serves as the introductory environment where players learn to manipulate wind currents for navigation. This sun-drenched setting establishes the core gliding mechanics used throughout the franchise.
Is the Grasslands a character or location?
The Grasslands is strictly an environmental biome rather than a sentient entity with its own story. Fans often mistake it for a character due to its central role in the narrative journey.
How do players interact within this meadow?
You control a wind spirit that glides through dense clusters of flowers to collect petals and bloom new plants. Gentle air streams guide movement while avoiding obstacles like fences or rocks.
What happens when you finish the Grasslands section?
Completing this area transitions players into more complex biomes with different wind patterns and challenges. It marks the end of the initial learning phase before the main adventure begins.
More in Biomes & Arenas
Elsewhere in the Flower universe
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