Types of Fantasy
Discover 4 fantasy worlds you never knew existed! In this video, we explore the fascinating subgenres of fantasy literature, from the epic tales of High Fantasy to the gritty realism of Grimdark. We’ll also dive into Urban Fantasy, where magic meets the modern world, and my personal favorite—LitRPG, where books and video games collide. If you love immersive storytelling, character progression, and unique world-building, this video is for you. Don’t forget to check out my LitRPG recommendations and more at fantasylitrpg.com!
10/7/20243 min read
Exploring Fantasy Genres and Why LitRPG Has Become My Favorite
Fantasy literature has the incredible power to transport us to worlds full of magic, mythical creatures, and epic quests. Over the years, the genre has evolved into many unique subgenres, each with its own storytelling style and fan base. Whether you're new to fantasy or a seasoned reader, exploring these subgenres can help you find the perfect kind of adventure. Today, I’ll take a look at some of the most popular fantasy genres and explain why LitRPG has become my absolute favorite.
1. High Fantasy
High Fantasy is often considered the heart of the fantasy genre. It’s set in entirely fictional worlds, with complex mythologies, magical systems, and epic quests that often revolve around the battle between good and evil. If you’ve read classics like The Lord of the Rings, The Wheel of Time, or The Stormlight Archive, you’re already familiar with this subgenre. High fantasy is known for its detailed world-building and the sheer scope of its stories. The stakes are usually high, and the adventures are epic.
Why people love it: High Fantasy transports readers to grand, otherworldly settings and delivers tales of heroes, kingdoms, and magic that feel timeless and immersive.
2. Grimdark Fantasy
For those who prefer their fantasy a bit more grounded and gritty, Grimdark Fantasy is the perfect fit. These stories are often violent, filled with morally grey characters, and feature worlds where life is harsh and unforgiving. Popular examples include Game of Thrones and The First Law series by Joe Abercrombie. In Grimdark, the lines between hero and villain are blurred, and the focus is often on power, survival, and the darker aspects of human nature.
Why people love it: Grimdark’s appeal lies in its realism and complexity. It’s less about noble heroes and more about flawed, relatable characters fighting to survive in brutal worlds.
3. Urban Fantasy
Urban Fantasy is a modern twist on the genre. Set in real-world cities, these stories weave magical elements into our everyday reality. Imagine wizards, vampires, and gods living secretly among us, battling forces unseen by the regular world. Great examples include The Dresden Files by Jim Butcher or American Gods by Neil Gaiman. Urban fantasy mixes modern settings with ancient magic, creating a blend that feels both familiar and fantastical.
Why people love it: The combination of the mundane and the magical makes urban fantasy relatable while still offering a sense of mystery and adventure.
4. LitRPG: A Fusion of Fantasy and Gaming
Now, let’s dive into LitRPG, the genre that has quickly become my favorite. LitRPG, short for Literary Role-Playing Game, blends traditional fantasy storytelling with elements of video games. In these stories, characters level up, gain skills, unlock new abilities, and navigate worlds governed by game-like rules. If you’ve ever played an RPG (role-playing game), you’ll feel right at home in a LitRPG book.
In LitRPG, the stakes feel real because the game mechanics often dictate life or death. Characters progress through challenges, earning experience points and becoming stronger, just like in your favorite video games. This genre offers a unique level of engagement—you’re not just following a hero’s journey; you’re tracking their progress, celebrating every level-up and victory alongside them.
Some of my favorite LitRPG series include Chrysalis, Dungeon Life, and He Who Fights With Monsters. These books have an amazing mix of humor, action, and character development, making them a blast to read. Plus, the game mechanics add a layer of strategy and excitement you won’t find in other subgenres.
Why I love LitRPG: It perfectly combines my love of fantasy with my passion for gaming. The constant progression and evolving challenges keep the stakes high, while the game-like structure makes every chapter feel like a new adventure. Plus, the humor and lighthearted tone in many LitRPG books add a layer of fun that makes the reading experience even more enjoyable.
Why LitRPG Stands Out
The reason LitRPG has become my favorite fantasy subgenre is that it offers something no other type of fantasy can—the thrill of watching characters grow in power and ability while navigating intricate, game-like worlds. For fans of RPGs, this genre feels like the perfect mix of reading a book and playing a game. You get to experience epic battles, strategic planning, and leveling up, all while diving deep into engaging storylines and fully-realized fantasy settings.
If you’ve ever wished you could play through your favorite fantasy novel, LitRPG gives you the closest experience possible. You’ll feel the rush of unlocking new powers, solving complex problems, and surviving epic battles—all within the pages of a book.
Conclusion
Whether you’re into the grand tales of High Fantasy, the gritty realism of Grimdark, the magical modernity of Urban Fantasy, or the game-like adventure of LitRPG, there’s a subgenre of fantasy for everyone. For me, LitRPG stands out for its immersive world-building, character progression, and unique fusion of storytelling and gaming. If you haven’t tried LitRPG yet, I highly recommend diving into this exciting subgenre—it might just become your new favorite, too.
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