I feel like there are two styles of steampunk. There’s the light and hopeful “fantasy” style of steampunk, or the dark and gritty “industrial revolution” style of steampunk.

I’ve been assuming that most fans of steampunk prefer the optimistic “fantasy” side of the genre but I don’t think the dark and gritty version has a different name. I’m pretty sure it’s all just steampunk.

What do you think of when you picture steampunk?

(Source image: Steampunk City by Kinga Makowska)

  • Godort@lemmy.caEnglish
    8·
    2 months ago

    I like either one, as long as it was a conscious choice in service of the narrative.

    If you want to depict a story where your characters are struggling and need to make every effort count, then a bleak, smoggy coal stained environment adds to that.

    If you want to depict a more light-hearted adventure, where your characters are excited about what tomorrow will bring, then having the world be glass and polished copper is a better fit.