If you're curious about the differences between high fantasy vs dark fantasy, check out this post to learn all about them! Dark Fantasy can be similar to either High or Low Fantasy but will generally lack the sudden solutions to the problems of the heros. It's also often characterized by a relatively high body count, gritty and crapsack world, and often has one or more morally grey protagonists. Understand the differences between high and dark fantasy genres.
Dive into their unique characteristics, origins, and popular examples! Fantasy is a wide reaching genre and there are many subgenres, so what is dark fantasy vs high fantasy and why are they different? The protagonists in high fantasy are frequently heroes on epic quests, battling against dark forces or fulfilling ancient prophecies. The genre is known for its rich world-building and the extensive use of magic and fantastical creatures. The themes often revolve around good versus evil, heroism, and the struggle for power.
Is ACOTAR High Fantasy? Understanding the differences between high, low, and dark fantasy helps you better appreciate the emotional journey each one offers. And once you recognize their traits, you'll start seeing them everywhere-in books, films, games, even the stories you daydream about. High fantasy versus low fantasy: what's the difference? Last updated Oct 25, 2023 Writing Tips We love fantasy in all its facets: epic fantasy, cosy fantasy, magical realism, sword-and-sorcery, dark fantasy, urban fantasy, fantasy with beasties and ghoulies and valiant heroes of all shapes and sizes.
Dark fiction can include both low and high fantasy, though I'm guessing more often "low" fantasy, since what is traditionally seen as "horror" fiction, would tend, I think, to be included in the low fantasy genre, since most horror makes use of fantastical elements. High fantasy films, like "The Lord of the Rings," take place in entirely fictional worlds with their own rules and histories. Subgenres include dark fantasy (mixing horror), epic fantasy (grand, often with quests), and urban fantasy (modern settings with magic).
What's the difference between high fantasy vs. low fantasy? Discover the nuance between the two.