What defines dark fantasy?

Is it just elves that wear black or is there more to it? Maybe a mood or setting? Maybe it’s an antihero thing? Im curious as to what it means and what some of the defining/seminal works of dark fantasy might be. I mean, it just sounds awesome right? DARK FANTASY!

  • @SubtlysubtleOP
    1•11 months ago

    I love that idea if pyrrhic victories. I’ve been asking around about what are some favorites in this “genre” and have been suggested: The Witcher, First Law, Goblin slayer, Embers of Illenial/Mageborn. What else should I add to this reading list?

    • @faxA
      2•11 months ago

      I’ve definitely heard First Law is both grimdark and good. I have it on my TBR.

      if you’re not opposed to REALLY dark, Mark Lawrence’s Broken Empire trilogy (starts with Prince of Thorns) is very good. You kinda have to push through hating theMC for the first part of the first book but it’s totally worth it.

      Also the Poppy War trilogy by RF Kuang is excellent.

      Also, I will never pass up the chance to recommend Malazan Book of the Fallen.