I am getting into map art for the first time, and I’m trying to understand the process better. I know artists use relative y levels to create a more “3d” feel, since blocks will appear lighter or darker depending on the vertical relation to their neighboring blocks.

However, I wonder if overall Y level matters? Do I have to pay attention to the overall vertical location of the structure? My understanding is, as long as the blocks are in the same place in relation to each other, it doesn’t matter how high I build the entire area.

I hope the question was clear enough; thanks for the replies.