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Sci-fi or Fantasy: How to Classify Your Novel

Letztes Update: 16. September 2025

Sam is unsure if their novel is sci-fi or fantasy. The story includes advanced technology and space travel, along with magical elements and mythical creatures. This article helps determine the genre by exploring the distinctions between sci-fi and fantasy.

Is my novel sci-fi or fantasy?

Hi everyone, it's Sam here! I'm working on a novel and I'm not sure if it falls under sci-fi or fantasy. The story features advanced technology and space travel, but it also includes magical elements and mythical creatures. How do I determine if my novel is sci-fi or fantasy? Are there specific criteria that distinguish sci-fi from fantasy? Thanks for your help!

Last updated 3 mins ago

Antwort der Redaktion

Is My Novel Sci-Fi or Fantasy?

Determining whether your novel is sci-fi or fantasy can be a bit tricky, especially when it contains elements of both genres. To help you decide, let's explore the key characteristics of each genre and how they might apply to your story.

Understanding Sci-Fi

Science fiction, often abbreviated as sci-fi, typically involves futuristic settings, advanced technology, and scientific principles. If your novel features space travel and advanced technology, it leans towards sci-fi. Sci-fi often explores the impact of science and technology on society and individuals.

Defining Fantasy

Fantasy, on the other hand, is characterized by magical elements, mythical creatures, and worlds that differ from our own reality. If your story includes magic and mythical creatures, these are strong indicators of fantasy. Fantasy often involves a sense of wonder and escapism.

Blending Sci-Fi and Fantasy

Many novels successfully blend sci-fi and fantasy elements. This subgenre is sometimes referred to as science fantasy. If your novel contains both advanced technology and magic, it might belong to this hybrid category. Consider how these elements interact in your story.

Criteria for Sci-Fi or Fantasy

To determine if your novel is sci-fi or fantasy, consider the following criteria:

  • Setting: Is the world primarily technological or magical?
  • Rules: Does the story follow scientific laws or magical rules?
  • Theme: Is the focus on scientific exploration or magical adventure?

Examples of Sci-Fi or Fantasy

Looking at examples can help clarify the distinction. "Star Wars" is often seen as science fantasy because it includes space travel and the Force, a magical element. "The Lord of the Rings" is pure fantasy with its magical creatures and epic quests. "The Martian" is a clear sci-fi novel focused on realistic space survival.

Deciding on Your Genre

Ultimately, the decision of whether your novel is sci-fi or fantasy depends on which elements are more dominant and integral to your story. Consider what themes and settings are most important to your narrative. This will guide you in categorizing your novel.

Conclusion

Whether your novel is sci-fi or fantasy, or a blend of both, understanding the core elements of each genre will help you position your story effectively. Embrace the creativity that comes with mixing genres and let your imagination lead the way.

Last updated 3 mins ago

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Determining whether your novel is sci-fi or fantasy can be challenging. Sci-fi often involves advanced technology and futuristic settings, while fantasy includes magical elements and mythical creatures. Understanding the key differences can help you classify your work correctly.

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Another useful resource is the article Is Superman science fiction or fantasy?. This piece explores the genre classification of a well-known character, which can offer insights into how to categorize your own novel.

For a broader perspective on the popularity and sales trends of sci-fi novels, check out Do sci-fi novels sell well?. This article discusses current trends in the sci-fi genre, which might help you decide if your novel fits within this popular category.

By exploring these resources, you'll gain a better understanding of the distinctions between sci-fi and fantasy. This will help you confidently classify your novel as either sci-fi or fantasy.