Hub philosophy
Gecko Gods is built around return trips. Each island teaches a movement verb, then asks you to backtrack with new tools. When in doubt, note locked doors — they are bookmarks for after the next story beat.
Volcano island
Verticality first. Expect heat hazards, long climbs, and stone puzzles that eat stamina. Prioritise fireflies before you commit to summit attempts. The Smoldering Fire Gecko beat locks in once all three lava bridges align — if a bridge flickers, one stone is still one tile off.
Water Temple region
This is the rules tutorial for fluid states. Low, mid, and high water are not cosmetic — they rewrite which walls are climbable. After you understand lever priority, every later flood puzzle is a remix. Relics often sit in ceiling grooves that only appear at mid water.
Ancient ruins
Wide floors, slow pushes, and symbol locks. The Explorer achievement wants you to visit every marked landmass — ruins usually hide a dock map you must interact with to reveal fogged corners. Check behind collapsible walls for optional relic pairs.
Boats and fast travel
Once the Island Hopper milestone triggers, treat the boat as a roving checkpoint. Return to older islands with fresh knowledge — several relics require abilities you earn later. If a pier looks unused, sleep on a bench or reload the hub; some flags only refresh after a story cutscene.