Building Inclusive Fantasy Worlds: Tips and Insights for Inclusive Fantasy Worldbuilding

Creating fantasy worlds is one of the most exciting parts of writing. You get to build entire universes from scratch, invent cultures, magic systems, and histories. But as a writer who cares deeply about representation, I’ve learned that building inclusive fantasy worlds takes a bit more thought and heart. It’s about making sure everyone can see themselves in the stories we tell, especially readers seeking diverse, LGBTQIA+, mental health-aware fantasy books.

Let’s dive into some practical tips and insights that have helped me craft worlds where inclusivity isn’t just an afterthought but a core part of the magic.

Why Inclusive Fantasy Worldbuilding Matters

When I first started writing fantasy, I noticed a lot of worlds felt... well, a bit samey. Mostly straight, mostly cisgender, and often lacking in mental health awareness or cultural diversity. That’s a missed opportunity. Fantasy is a place to explore all kinds of experiences, not just the usual tropes.

Inclusive fantasy worldbuilding means creating settings where diverse identities and experiences are woven into the fabric of the world. It’s not just about adding a token character here or there. It’s about imagining societies, histories, and magic systems that reflect a broad spectrum of humanity.

For example, think about how gender might work in your world. Are there more than two genders? How does society view them? What about mental health? Is magic tied to emotional states or mental well-being? These questions open doors to richer storytelling.

Here’s a quick checklist to get started:

• Include characters with diverse sexual orientations and gender identities.

• Represent different cultural backgrounds authentically.

• Address mental health with sensitivity and depth.

• Avoid stereotypes and clichés.

• Show inclusivity in social structures, laws, and traditions.

  
  

Crafting Cultures That Celebrate Diversity

One of my favorite parts of worldbuilding is creating cultures. This is where you can really shine by imagining societies that celebrate diversity rather than just tolerate it.

Start by thinking about how your cultures handle identity. For instance, in one of my worlds, there’s a festival that honors people’s chosen names and pronouns, reflecting a society that deeply respects gender fluidity. It’s a small detail, but it adds layers of realism and warmth.

When designing cultures, consider:

• Language: Do they have words for identities or experiences that don’t exist in English? Inventing terms can show respect and depth.

• Customs and rituals: How do they celebrate love, family, or community? Are there unique ceremonies for coming of age that include all genders?

• Social norms: What’s considered taboo or celebrated? How do these norms affect characters’ lives?

  
  

Remember, diversity isn’t just about ticking boxes. It’s about creating believable, vibrant societies where inclusivity is natural.

A vibrant fantasy village marketplace showcasing diverse cultural elements

Building Characters That Reflect Real-World Complexity

Characters are the heart of any story. When I write, I want my characters to feel real, with strengths, flaws, and identities that resonate with readers.

Here’s how I approach character creation for inclusivity:

1. Go beyond labels: Instead of just saying a character is LGBTQIA+, show how that identity shapes their experiences and relationships.

2. Include mental health realistically: Maybe your hero struggles with anxiety or depression. Show their coping mechanisms and growth without making it their entire story.

3. Avoid stereotypes: For example, not every queer character needs to be flamboyant or tragic. They can be funny, brave, or even a bit grumpy.

4. Use diverse perspectives: Include characters from different backgrounds and viewpoints to enrich your narrative.

   
   

A great example is a character I created who is non-binary and a skilled healer. Their gender identity influences how they connect with magic and community, but it’s just one part of their complex personality.

Magic and Inclusivity: More Than Just Spells

Magic systems are a playground for creativity, and they can also reflect inclusivity in fascinating ways. Think about how magic might interact with identity or mental health in your world.

For instance, what if magic is stronger when someone embraces their true self? Or maybe certain magical abilities are linked to emotional resilience or trauma recovery. This approach can add emotional depth and representation.

Here are some ideas to consider:

• Magic that adapts to the user’s identity or emotional state.

• Societies where magic users face discrimination based on their abilities or identities.

• Healing magic that addresses mental health challenges.

• Rituals that honor diverse identities through magical practices.

  
  

By weaving inclusivity into your magic system, you create a world that feels alive and meaningful.

An ancient spellbook glowing with magical runes symbolizing diverse magical traditions

Avoiding Pitfalls: Common Mistakes in Inclusive Fantasy Worldbuilding

Inclusivity is a journey, and it’s easy to stumble along the way. Here are some common pitfalls I’ve learned to watch out for:

• Tokenism: Including diverse characters just to check a box feels hollow. Make sure their identities matter to the story.

• Stereotyping: Avoid clichés that reduce characters to one trait or identity.

• Ignoring cultural context: Research and respect the cultures you draw inspiration from.

• Overloading with exposition: Show inclusivity through actions and world details, not just info dumps.

• Forgetting intersectionality: People have multiple identities that interact in complex ways.

  
  

If you’re unsure, ask for feedback from sensitivity readers or communities who can offer valuable perspectives.

Bringing It All Together: Your Inclusive Fantasy World Awaits

Building inclusive fantasy worlds is a rewarding challenge. It pushes us to think deeper, write better, and create stories that truly connect. Remember, inclusivity isn’t about perfection; it’s about intention and respect.

Happy worldbuilding!