adobe photoshop - How can I use gradients to imitate depth for isometric mazes?

I would like to create a maze with gradients, but I don't know where to start. I can see that they are subtle gradients that shift, so I would like to start with some techniques that could help me shift my perspective beyond basic flat design:

As a beginner, my reasoning would be:

1. 
   

   Create selected areas and put them on individual layers

   
   


2. 
   

   Choose eight or so colors, trying to find ones that blend into one another for depth. This sum not really sure of and don't know a lot about color theory.

   
   


3. 
   

   Create the full outline of the maze, but in a slightly different style that extends for a few more turns.

   
   


4. 
   
   

   Use the gradient tool to try to match up where intersecting layers.

   
   

Would this be a correct technique? Am I missing something?

5. what additional techniques are needed for a maze with curves? All design credit goes to: http://dribbble.com/shots/1118644-G-Glob

Answer

It's easiest to complete this isometric maze in Adobe Illustrator.

I've tried for the first time, creating a screencast that most accurately shows the necessary steps to complete this and adds some commentary on the use of accurate gradients. Still improving at screencasts, but hopefully it gets the points across.

Part 1: How to make an Isometric top - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nKgDZ87RRyA

Part 2: How to make the walls within - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vrdyj46quYA

Part 3: How to accurately consider light sources for gradients - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0v3b9sQmiig

You can use this method to extend your maze and hopefully there are some principles that help you in your Illustrator techniques.

Final Output

Grayscale and Curved Wall

Note Make sure your guides are not locked.

Source File

IsometricMaze.ai (To be safe, this will take you to a Google Drive Shared File where you can preview before downloading)