World Anvil Academy
Practical lessons for curious worldbuilders, imaginative writers and unforgettable game masters. Your next great idea starts here.
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Gothic isn't just a bunch of tropes or an aesthetic. It's far more seductive - and subversive. Unpack why gothic exists, what makes it tick, and how to craft a gothic setting for any genre.
Whether or not you're a cozy fan yourself, the genre's appeal is undeniable. So what draws people in? And more importantly, how can you harness that appeal for your own work?
This guide will show you how to build a mythic fantasy world that feels like The Odyssey, like Xena: Warrior Princess, like Hercules — but with your own geography, gods, monsters, and lore.
Solarpunk is a speculative fiction movement — part aesthetic, part political philosophy, part genre — built around one electrifying premise: what if we actually fixed things?
Second worlds are the most common type of setting in traditional fantasy, and the most ambitious. This checklist cuts through the overwhelm by focusing on what actually matters.
Looking for the right tabletop RPG system for your next campaign? Here are some worldbuilder-friendly choices to consider.
Without people - sapient species & cultures - your setting isn't a place where stories can happen. Here's how to start populating your world.
Is romantasy a buzzword for romantic fantasy, fantasy romance, or a whole new thing? A worldbuilding guide to the tropes and trends of this popular fantasy subgenre.
Enjoy tales of hackers fighting to take down corrupt corporations? Then grab your trench coat and mirrorshades as we hack into the slick, neon-drenched world of cyberpunk.
Sword & sorcery is a fantasy subgenre defined by its rugged heroes, mastery of the blade, and thrilling adventures in untamed lands.
Urban fantasy worldbuilding has its own unique elements and challenges. Here's how to approach worldbuilding this contemporary fantasy genre.
Let’s journey into the imaginative cosmos of sci-fi worldbuilding. Unlock the secrets of crafting otherworldly landscapes, species, and technologies.
Science fantasy blends futuristic technology with ancient magic, blurring the lines between these two popular speculative genres.
Sick of the real world? Want to escape to a place of wonder and danger? Then climb into this wardrobe as we explore PORTAL FANTASY!
What is genre, and how does it aid in worldbuilding? Dive into this important foundational decision.
Alternate earth is one of the 4 basic blueprints of worldbuilding. Here are the key questions you need to answer up front—and what can wait.
LitRPG is a growing genre that combines exciting fantasy and scifi settings, satisfying character growth, and interesting game mechanics. Here's what you need to know.
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