Top 5 Fantasy Tropes (Writing Advice)

TL;DR

In today’s post, I’ll discuss five fantasy tropes that I absolutely love: the burden of magic, the band of heroes, adventure, fantasy sports, and heroic sacrifice. Each trope enhances character development and enriches storytelling by introducing conflict, camaraderie, exploration, competition, and profound thematic elements. Let’s dive into each one!

The Burden of Magic

The first trope that captivates me is the burden of magic. This trope presents magic not merely as a source of fun and wonder, but as a double-edged sword that comes with significant consequences. Characters who wield magic often face physical, emotional, or social repercussions for their powers, leading to complex narratives that challenge their abilities and relationships.

For example, in The Lord of the Rings, the One Ring grants its bearer the power of invisibility and access to another realm, yet it corrupts and distorts the soul of its user. Frodo Baggins bears this heavy burden, illustrating how magic can turn allies into foes and create a psychological struggle.

Similarly, in Star Wars, the Force bestows incredible abilities upon characters like Luke Skywalker and Anakin Skywalker. Yet, this power attracts malevolent forces such as Emperor Palpatine, highlighting the ever-present danger of wielding such magic.

In Spider-Man 2, Peter Parker grapples with the duality of his life as a superhero and a regular person. His powers bring excitement but also demand personal sacrifices, showcasing how magic can complicate relationships and personal identity.

Finally, in Attack on Titan, Eren Yeager’s ability to transform into a Titan is a double-edged sword that grants his friends a fighting chance against monstrous threats while simultaneously creating distrust and danger among them. This idea of magic as a burden not only propels the plot but also deepens character arcs.

The Band of Heroes

The second trope I adore is the band of heroes. This involves a diverse group of characters from varying backgrounds uniting to face a common adversary. The mismatched dynamics among the heroes lead to engaging interpersonal conflicts that make their journey exciting and relatable.

A prime example of this trope is found in The Lord of the Rings with the Fellowship of the Ring. Each member brings unique skills and perspectives, leading to rich character interactions. The conflicts, such as the tension between Boromir and Aragorn, evolve into meaningful friendships that resonate with the audience.

Another great illustration is seen in Guardians of the Galaxy, where five characters with conflicting personalities are forced to collaborate during a prison break. This scenario provides a perfect backdrop for character development as they navigate their differences and learn to work as a cohesive unit.

Additionally, video games, particularly JRPGs, often employ this trope. Games like Final Fantasy 8 include elements of teamwork and character growth that arise from shared struggles, often culminating in powerful emotional moments.

Adventure

The third trope I cherish is adventure. This trope revolves around characters embarking on journeys to unfamiliar territories in pursuit of their goals. Adventure connects readers to protagonists, allowing them to share in the excitement and challenges of exploration.

Classic examples include Star Wars and The Lord of the Rings, where Luke and Frodo venture into diverse cultures and face adversities that help them grow. The journey serves as a metaphor for their internal struggles, such as overcoming personal doubts and fears.

Video games excel at portraying this trope, providing immersive worlds and challenges. Players experience the thrill of discovery, much like in Zelda: Ocarina of Time, where leaving the forest for the vast Hyrule Field is a moment of awe and wonder. Games like Ys 10 exemplify this trope by featuring characters who must navigate various challenges while exploring their world, making every step of the journey significant.

Fantasy Sports

The fourth trope that often gets overlooked is fantasy sports. These imaginative competitions add depth to the story world and can serve as engaging side plots that showcase important character traits and skills.

Consider Quidditch from Harry Potter. This magical sport is intricately woven into the narrative, enhancing the magical atmosphere of Hogwarts while also providing insight into Harry’s character as he learns to harness his abilities in a competitive environment.

Another example is Blitzball from Final Fantasy 10, which is essentially underwater soccer. The protagonist, Tidus, starts as a pampered athlete, but through his experiences in this sport, he undergoes significant personal growth. The game acts as a catalyst for character development and enriches the world-building, making it a memorable part of the story.

Heroic Sacrifice

The fifth and final trope I love is heroic sacrifice. This trope involves characters giving up something valuable—be it their safety, life, or personal desires—to protect others. Such sacrifices often serve as pivotal moments that define character arcs and explore profound thematic lessons.

One of the most striking examples comes from Game of Thrones with Jaime Lannister. Initially portrayed as a villain, Jaime’s character evolves as he makes sacrifices to save Brienne of Tarth. This moment reframes his character, showcasing his complexity and growth.

In Spider-Man 2, Peter Parker’s choice to remove his mask during a critical train rescue highlights the essence of his heroism. By prioritizing the lives of others over his secret identity, Peter embodies the true spirit of a hero, demonstrating that heroism transcends mere powers.

Conclusion

These five beloved fantasy tropes—the burden of magic, the band of heroes, adventure, fantasy sports, and heroic sacrifice—offer rich storytelling opportunities that deepen character arcs and engage audiences. They remind us that in every journey, whether magical or mundane, there are profound lessons about sacrifice, friendship, and growth.

Now, I’d love to hear from you! What fantasy trope do you love the most? Let us know in the comments section below!