High Fantasy: Epic Worlds Explained

What is it?

High fantasy is a subgenre of fantasy fiction characterized by its setting in an entirely fictional world, often called a "secondary world," with its own unique laws of nature, geography, and history. Unlike low fantasy, which is set in the real world, high fantasy creates a complete reality from scratch. Hallmarks of the genre include an epic scale, a focus on a grand struggle between good and evil, prevalent and powerful magic systems, and the presence of non-human races like elves, dwarves, and orcs. Classic examples include J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings, which heavily influenced games like World of Warcraft and The Elder Scrolls series.

Why is it trending?

High fantasy remains a dominant force in entertainment due to its capacity for ultimate escapism. It offers audiences a chance to immerse themselves in vast, intricate worlds unbound by reality. The recent success of series like Amazon's The Rings of Power and the enduring popularity of Dungeons & Dragons have kept the genre in the cultural spotlight. For gamers, high fantasy provides the perfect canvas for sprawling open-world RPGs, where deep lore, complex political landscapes, and powerful magic create limitless potential for adventure and storytelling.

How does it affect people?

High fantasy provides a powerful medium for exploring timeless themes like heroism, sacrifice, hope, and the nature of morality. By placing these concepts in a fantastical setting, it allows players and readers to engage with them on a grand, mythological level. The deep world-building encourages a sense of discovery and fosters strong communities of fans dedicated to exploring the lore. It inspires creativity, encouraging people to create their own stories, characters, and art, offering a rich and rewarding form of imaginative play and entertainment that resonates deeply with its audience.

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