So I’ve talked a bit about cottagecore, I’ve discussed dark academia, and at some point I’ll write about magical realism. The throughline for me is escapism. They’re all ways of looking at the world in, if not an entirely positive and hopeful way, then at least a comforting one. One can see the tropes of each genre as coping mechanisms, literally for the characters in these stories and vicariously for those of us in this real world. There is a simplicity in these genres; they may be difficulty to explain, sure, and different people will have a wide range of definitions about what fits within each category, but you know it when it feels right. If nothing else, characters can be seen to be living under a code of ethics, or a personal philosophy, uncomplicated principles that guide their lives.

So, TLDR, I’m only doing games that explore cooperation, interaction, and investigation going forward. I’m not saying there will be zero violence. I’m saying that when it does exist, it’s to make a point, and it should be shocking, and it should be a terrible, tragic thing. But I’m also saying that meeting supporting characters and having romantic adventures in the classical sense and solving problems and making discoveries are fun, and escapist, and uplifting, and a balm for the soul. And that’s what I want to put out into the world.

For those interested in running a cottagecore RPG, understanding the gentle, pastoral essence of the genre is essential. Whether you're creating fantasy roleplaying games or crafting cozy fantasy scenarios, these books will provide you with the inspiration and understanding needed to bring the cottagecore aesthetic to life. Here are five books I recommend for diving into the cottagecore fantasy genre and incorporating its elements into your tabletop roleplaying games: