Magic is so much fun to write, but so often the conversation about fantasy ends up in one of two places: The traditional high fantasy space of elves and dragons and drama between rival nations, or that modern day urban fantasy where there are magical beings living alongside everyone else in secret.
There are so many other types of fantasy subgenres that you can explore! Here are a few ideas to get you started if you’re looking to try something a little different.
Folklore or Fairytale Fantasy
These are stories based on traditional folktales, legends, and myths. They often include some reimagining or adaptation to bring it more to a modern audience. I tend to also think of stories that are based on non-western cultures that are brought to a western audience in this category as well.
Examples: Gods of Jade and Shadow, Hoodoo
Portal Fantasy
These are stories in which the characters travel between different worlds or dimensions. Sometimes they can go back and forth between the worlds and sometimes they can’t.
Examples: Return to Wonderland, Labyrinth Lost, Ten Thousand Doors of January
Steampunk Fantasy
These stories are set in a world that is powered by steam and clockwork technology. These don’t necessarily have a magic system, and sometimes the steampunk-inspired technology serves the purpose of magic in the story.
Examples: City of Ember, Northern Lights
