The Forgotten Realms is the name of a renowned fantasy campaign setting within the larger fictional world known as Abeir-Toril, often simply referred to as Toril. While "The Forgotten Realms" itself is a distinct name for this popular setting, it specifically refers to a region or a collection of continents on this Earth-like planet.
Understanding Abeir-Toril (Toril)
Abeir-Toril, or Toril for short, serves as the primary planet where the adventures and stories of the Forgotten Realms unfold. It is a richly detailed world with a diverse geography, populated by various races, cultures, and magical phenomena.
- Geographical Features: Toril is an Earth-like planet comprised of several large continents, oceans, and numerous islands. Its diverse landscapes range from bustling metropolises to perilous wildernesses, high mountains, and deep underground realms.
- Real-World Influences: The world of Toril, including the Forgotten Realms setting, draws heavily from real-world history, mythology, and geography, giving it a relatable yet fantastical feel. This blend allows for a wide array of narrative possibilities and familiar archetypes.
- Key Continents: While the Forgotten Realms campaign setting primarily focuses on the continent of Faerûn, Toril also encompasses other continents such as Kara-Tur (inspired by East Asian cultures) and Maztica (inspired by pre-Columbian American cultures), each with its own unique history and inhabitants.
The Relationship Between Forgotten Realms and Toril
It's crucial to understand that the Forgotten Realms is not the entire planet but a significant portion of it. Think of it as a specific continent or region within a larger world, much like Europe is a continent on Earth.
| Name | Description | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Forgotten Realms | A popular fantasy campaign setting | Setting |
| Abeir-Toril | The fictional planet where the setting exists | World Name |
| Toril | Common shortened name for Abeir-Toril | World Name |
The rich history, intricate lore, and diverse pantheon of gods within the Forgotten Realms are all intrinsically tied to the cosmology and events shaping the entire planet of Toril. For enthusiasts of Dungeons & Dragons, the Forgotten Realms has become one of the most iconic and frequently used settings for campaigns, largely due to its extensive development and broad appeal.
For more detailed information, you can explore resources like the Forgotten Realms Wikipedia page.
