Introduction
As a fan of high fantasy, you may have read several books or watched movies about dragons, knights, and magical kingdoms. While these worlds are fascinating and well-loved by many, there’s so much more to high fantasy than just castles and battles. In this article, we will explore some unique high fantasy worlds that will leave you mesmerized and eager to discover more. But before we dive into that, let’s first define what high fantasy is and what sets it apart from low fantasy.
High Fantasy vs Low Fantasy
When it comes to fantasy, there are two broad categories – high fantasy and low fantasy. High fantasy, also known as epic fantasy, is set in a completely fictional world where magic and mythical creatures exist. These stories usually have a grand, overarching theme, and the protagonist is often on a quest to save the world from a great evil. Low fantasy, on the other hand, has a more realistic and grounded setting, often with historical or contemporary elements. The magical or fantastical elements in low fantasy are usually subtle and may only exist on the fringes of the story. It’s important to understand the difference between these two forms of fantasy when exploring unique high fantasy worlds.
Unique World Building
One of the key elements of high fantasy is world-building. A well-built world can draw readers in and make the story feel immersive and real. When exploring unique high fantasy worlds, the world-building is often one of the most notable aspects. These worlds aren’t just a simple backdrop to the story; they are complex and fully realized, with their own unique histories, cultures, and languages. Often, the author of a unique high fantasy world will spend years building the world before they even begin writing the story. This level of attention to detail can create a truly unique reading experience, one that is difficult to find in any other genre.
Examples of Unique High Fantasy Worlds
Many authors have created unique high fantasy worlds that make for an unforgettable reading experience. Brandon Sanderson’s “Cosmere” is an example of a vast inter-connected universe that spans multiple series and planets with unique magic systems. In “The Broken Earth” trilogy by N.K. Jemisin, the world is plagued by natural disasters, and the story explores the social dynamics of a society on the brink of destruction. “The Hundred Thousand Kingdoms” by N.K. Jemisin is set in a world ruled by gods, and the protagonist is thrust into the center of political intrigue and divine conspiracy. These are just a few examples of the many unique high fantasy worlds that exist. Exploring these worlds can broaden your horizons and help you discover new favorites within the genre.
Benefits of Exploring Unique High Fantasy Worlds
Exploring unique high fantasy worlds can have many benefits for readers. Reading about richly-detailed worlds with their own unique cultures and histories can inspire you to think more creatively and flex your own world-building muscles. Exploring different worlds can also help you to escape from the stress of daily life and immerse yourself in a fantasy setting. It’s an opportunity to experience something new, broaden your horizons, and challenge your imagination. By reading about different worlds, you can engage with different perspectives and experiences, which can be rewarding and enlightening. Whether you’re looking for inspiration for your own writing, or simply seeking a new adventure to get lost in, exploring unique high fantasy worlds can provide hours of entertainment and enlightenment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while dragons, knights, and magical kingdoms are staples of high fantasy, there are plenty of unique worlds out there waiting to be discovered. Exploring these worlds can be a thrilling experience that can help you to think more creatively, broaden your horizons, and escape from the stresses of everyday life. Whether you prefer complex magic systems, unique social structures, or epic political intrigue, there is a unique high fantasy world out there waiting for you to discover it. So don’t be afraid to stray from the beaten path and explore the fantastic worlds that lie beyond dragons and knights. You never know what kind of incredible adventures you might find!
