fantasyhorror

Fantasy horror is a subgenre of speculative fiction that blends elements of both fantasy and horror. It typically features supernatural creatures, magic, mythical settings, and fantastical elements, but these are used to evoke fear, dread, or revulsion, similar to traditional horror. The genre explores the darker aspects of magic and the fantastical, often by presenting them as inherently dangerous, corrupting, or terrifying.

Common tropes in fantasy horror include ancient evils, cursed objects, malevolent deities, otherworldly dimensions that bleed into the real world, and monstrous beings that are not merely monsters but embodiments of psychological or cosmic dread. The line between the magical and the horrifying is often blurred, with enchantment leading to corruption or the mundane world being invaded by nightmarish entities. The genre can also explore themes of existentialism, the fragility of sanity, and the terrifying unknown lurking beneath the surface of reality, all within a fantastical context.

Examples of fantasy horror can be found across various media, including literature, film, and video games. Stories might feature heroes battling not just dragons, but dragons that embody primal fears or ancient curses. Alternatively, a seemingly idyllic fantasy world could harbor unspeakable horrors, or a character's magical abilities might come at a terrible, soul-crushing price. The core of the subgenre lies in using the limitless possibilities of fantasy to amplify the feeling of terror.