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On The Table Read Magazine, “the best entertainment magazine in the UK“, the worlds of stories are often inspiring, so we checked out a ranking of the most beautiful fictional worlds and what makes their aesthetic so special.
The power of fiction lies not just in its characters and plot, but also in the vivid landscapes and captivating environments it creates. These fictional worlds can spark our imagination, fuel our wanderlust, and even inspire our own creativity. Curious to see which fantastical realms reign supreme in the aesthetics department? We dove headfirst into a recent study that ranked the most beautiful fictional worlds, and we’re here to unveil the top contenders and explore what makes their visual allure so captivating!
To help us out, experts from CSGO Luck, researchers analyzed the visual allure of the most mesmerizing fictional worlds to identify those that prove most inspiring. Each world was awarded a score out of 100 based on the average monthly Google searches made for each, the number of times they feature in Instagram hashtags, and the number of Pinterest posts, to rank them from most to least aesthetic.
The Google searches analyzed included the world name paired with the terms ‘wallpaper’, ‘stills’ and ‘aesthetic’.
The study not only unveils the most enchanting fictional settings of our time but also offers a deeper understanding of what draws people into these worlds.
It’s clear that these are not just escapes from reality—they are vibrant landscapes where complex themes of heroism, exploration, and morality are played out.
Each world, from the mystical corridors of Hogwarts to the rugged lands of Skyrim, serves as a mirror to our own world, reflecting back at us our fears, our hopes, and our dreams. They allow us to experience great adventures, offer us a way to rethink our narratives and imagine possibilities beyond the constraints of our reality, continuing to captivate and inspire new and existing fans alike.
-A spokesperson for CSGO Luck
Top Ten Most Beautiful Fictional Worlds
| Fictional World | Overall Score (Out of 100) | Monthly Google Searches | Instagram Posts | |
| 1 | Hogwarts | 97.83 | 3,129.17 | 8,504,357 |
| 2 | Skyrim | 86.46 | 3,835.00 | 1,931,112 |
| 3 | Wonderland | 66.76 | 644.17 | 4,865,162 |
| 4 | Gotham City | 61.44 | 966.67 | 1,103,608 |
| 5 | Narnia | 54.39 | 700.83 | 1,042,326 |
| 6 | Baldurs Gate | 51.68 | 1,122.50 | 104,114 |
| 7 | Zion | 36.17 | 261.67 | 2,142,361 |
| 8 | Middle Earth | 35.91 | 333.33 | 988,041 |
| 9 | Atlantis | 34.44 | 249.17 | 2,027,661 |
| 10 | Equestria | 33.18 | 790.00 | 96,920 |
1. Hogwarts
Taking the crown with a near-perfect score of 97.83 is Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry! This isn’t exactly a surprise to Potterheads worldwide. J.K. Rowling’s creation isn’t just a school; it’s a sprawling, magical world brimming with visual wonders. The iconic image of Hogwarts itself, a majestic castle perched on a cliff overlooking a lake, has captivated readers and moviegoers for decades.
But Hogwarts’ beauty extends far beyond its imposing exterior. Step inside and you’ll find yourself wandering through mysterious corridors that might lead to hidden classrooms or secret passageways. Grand staircases shift on their own accord, portraits whisper secrets, and the very essence of magic permeates the air. This isn’t your typical high school – it’s a place steeped in dark academia, a visual aesthetic that combines a love of learning with a touch of gothic mystery. Imagine towering bookshelves filled with ancient tomes, flickering candles illuminating dusty potions labs, and suits of armor standing guard in shadowy corners. Hogwarts perfectly captures this alluring blend of the intellectual and the fantastical.
No wonder it continues to be a beacon of iconic nostalgia! With over 8.5 million Instagram posts showcasing fan art, cosplay, and dream vacation photos, and a staggering 3,129 monthly Google searches, Hogwarts remains a place that ignites the imaginations of millions. It’s a testament to the power of J.K. Rowling’s world-building that Hogwarts reigns supreme when it comes to visual appeal in the realm of fiction.
2. Skyrim
Following closely behind Hogwarts in the visual appeal rankings is Skyrim, the realm of the Nords, with a very respectable score of 86.5. This frostbitten world, a central part of the beloved Elder Scrolls saga, isn’t just a backdrop for epic adventures; it’s a meticulously crafted landscape that inspires awe and wonder.
Skyrim boasts breathtaking vistas that stretch as far as the eye can see. Imagine towering, snow-capped mountains scraping the sky, vast meadows carpeted with wildflowers (in the summer, of course!), and deep, mysterious forests teeming with life. The world feels expansive and alive, inviting exploration at every turn.
But Skyrim’s beauty isn’t limited to its natural wonders. Crumbling Nordic ruins whisper of a bygone era, while ancient fortresses stand as testaments to humanity’s resilience. Picturesque villages nestled amongst rolling hills offer a sense of warmth and community amidst the harsh landscape. This variety ensures that every corner of Skyrim offers a unique visual experience.
Perhaps the most significant contributor to Skyrim’s visual appeal is its open-world gameplay. Unlike a pre-rendered movie scene, Skyrim allows players to truly interact with its world. You can ascend a mountain peak and marvel at the sprawling view below, delve into a dark dungeon and uncover its secrets, or simply wander aimlessly through the wilderness, soaking in the scenery. This level of immersion deepens the connection players feel with the world and makes its beauty all the more impactful.
Finally, don’t forget the depth of lore that enriches every aspect of Skyrim. Knowing the history behind a crumbling ruin or the significance of a particular landscape feature adds another layer of appreciation for the visual world. It’s a world that feels lived-in and believable, further solidifying its hold on our imaginations.
With over 3,800 monthly Google searches and a staggering 1.9 million hashtags on Instagram, Skyrim continues to captivate players and inspire fan art, discussions, and even real-life travel aspirations. It’s a testament to the power of world-building in video games that Skyrim stands strong as a visual masterpiece in the realm of fiction.
3. Wonderland
Taking the third spot on the visual appeal podium is the whimsical world of Wonderland, from Lewis Carroll’s timeless novel Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. Clocking in with a score of 66.8, Wonderland’s charm lies in its captivating paradox – a world that’s as chaotic as it is charming.
Unlike the grandeur of Hogwarts or the vastness of Skyrim, Wonderland’s beauty is all about sensory overload. Imagine a world where everything is a little bit off-kilter, where colors are impossibly bright and perspectives shift on a whim. Think giant mushrooms acting as houses, trees with talking caterpillars, and a Cheshire Cat who can vanish at will, leaving only a mischievous grin behind. This constant sense of wonder and the unexpected keeps us engaged and eager to see what’s around the next bend.
Wonderland’s visual aesthetic is like a continuously unfolding kaleidoscope. Flowers bloom in impossible shapes and sizes, playing cards rain from the sky, and the Mad Hatter’s tea party is a riot of mismatched patterns and flamboyant decorations. It’s a world that defies logic and embraces the power of the imagination.
Perhaps this is why Wonderland resonates so deeply with fans. With over 4.8 million Instagram posts showcasing everything from whimsical artwork to cosplay tributes, and a healthy monthly Google search volume of 644, it’s clear that Wonderland continues to spark creativity and inspire visual interpretations. While its search numbers might not be as high as the top contenders, the sheer number of artistic responses speaks volumes about the enduring visual appeal of this topsy-turvy world.
4. Gotham City
Steeped in shadows and shrouded in perpetual twilight, Gotham City takes the fourth place on our list with a score of 61.4. This isn’t your typical picture-perfect cityscape; Gotham’s beauty lies in its dark and moody atmosphere. It’s a place where towering gothic skyscrapers pierce the perpetually cloudy sky, their gargoyle-adorned facades casting long, ominous shadows. Streets are slick with rain, neon signs flicker with a desperate energy, and a sense of unease hangs heavy in the air.
Yet, there’s an undeniable allure to Gotham’s macabre aesthetic. This isn’t just a backdrop for Batman’s adventures; it’s a living, breathing character in its own right. The city’s Gothic architecture evokes a sense of mystery and grandeur, while the ever-present darkness hints at the secrets lurking beneath the surface. It’s a world that feels both familiar and alien, a warped reflection of our own urban landscape.
This unique visual identity is a major part of what makes Gotham so iconic. Across comics, movies, and television series, Gotham has been depicted in a multitude of ways, but its core essence – dark, gritty, and undeniably captivating – remains constant. This consistency is reflected in the 966 monthly Google searches and the impressive 1.1 million Instagram posts. Despite the lack of sunshine and cheerful colors, Gotham holds a powerful place in pop culture, a testament to the enduring appeal of its dark beauty.
5. Narnia
Rounding out our top five most visually appealing fictional worlds is Narnia, the fantastical creation of C.S. Lewis, with a score of 54.4. This land, chronicled in the beloved Chronicles of Narnia series, isn’t just a setting for epic battles and heroic journeys; it’s a tapestry woven with magic, myth, and majesty.
Narnia’s beauty lies in its diversity of landscapes. From the eternal winter of Narnia’s north, ruled by the White Witch, to the lush forests and rolling hills of the central lands, each region boasts its own unique visual charm. Imagine the breathtaking sight of a sun-drenched beach in the Calormen Empire contrasting with the frosted majesty of the Lamppost Forest. This variety keeps the world visually engaging and fuels the sense of adventure.
But Narnia’s appeal goes beyond its physical beauty. The world is steeped in myth and legend. Talking animals, mythical creatures like centaurs and fauns, and the looming presence of the powerful lion Aslan all contribute to a sense of wonder and enchantment. Narnia feels like a world where anything is possible, where the line between reality and fantasy blurs.
Adding another layer to Narnia’s visual appeal is its allegorical depth. While the stories can be enjoyed on a surface level, they also hold deeper meanings that resonate with readers of all ages. This depth adds a richness to the world-building, making it all the more captivating.
Nostalgia also plays a significant role in Narnia’s enduring popularity, similar to Hogwarts. With over 1 million Instagram posts showcasing everything from fan art to cosplay depicting the various Narnian landscapes and characters, and a steady 700 monthly Google searches, it’s clear that Narnia continues to hold a special place in the hearts of fans. The combination of its diverse landscapes, rich mythology, and timeless themes ensures that Narnia remains a visually and emotionally captivating world for generations to come.
Methodology
Data was gathered via Instagram, Pinterest and Google Keyword Planner and assigned weightings to identify an overall index score out of 10 for each entry, upon which the final ranking is based. The full dataset and methodology can be viewed here.
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