As a fiction writer, I can absolutely empathize with those that claim that this world, this dull reality, pales in comparison to so many of the places we see and read about in our films, novels, television shows, etc. They're enthralling, exciting, and maybe even a little dangerous, and they draw us in without us having given them a second thought. After all, what's death and destruction if you've got phenomenal creatures and the somehow undefeatable power of friendship? While that might sound a little ridiculous to some, there are many facets of these worlds that are completely and totally bonkers, which is why we love them so much, and as someone that is avidly invested in the creation of such realms, I have compiled a list of fictional universes that can step on ours any day of the week.

5. Attack on Titan

This might sound a little crazy, but as a female, I'm all about this universe. During the numerous instances wherein a female character battles with a male (and wins), the victory is never followed by the remark, "You just got your ass kicked by a girl!" Gender isn't something that matters immensely to the characters. In fact, the character Zoe Hange was confirmed by the creator himself to not have a gender, and no one in this universe bats an eye. Sure, they might think Hange is odd because of her obsession with the Titans and her impulsive actions, but it never once addresses anything to do with her gender or lack thereof because it just isn't an issue. I think that's something to be admired, something to strive towards, especially in this current political climate.

Did I mention the 3DMG? Because that'd be fun as heck, and while I acknowledge the amount of injuries that it would undoubtedly cause, I think the thrill far outweighs a few broken limbs.

4. Gurren Lagaan

I made a wise crack about the power of friendship a second ago, and while I stand by my statement discussing its silliness, this show is literally powered by the connections between others and I honestly live for it. Getting beaten in a fight? Think about your best friend. Mech not working? Fist-bump. The girl you love just turned into dust? It's cool, dude, because you've got your bros.

Seriously, though, despite its unrealistic qualities and complete disregard to continuity, this universe solely revolves around love and compassion provided to those around the characters, which is precious and amazing. The overwhelming sense of camaraderie in Gurren Lagaan is something that most people crave, particularly for those that feel as if they exist on the outskirts of society's confines, and this universe absolutely lets those people know that they belong.

3. Literally Anything Ghibli

It's. So. Pretty. I just want to live in a Miyazaki sketch, honestly.

There's a certain amount of whimsy in Ghibli films that can't be matched by other fictional worlds. Those stark realities--like Sophie's struggles with her body, Chihiro's initial selfishness and self-realization, the issues of coping with a parent in a potentially deadly situation--are so very like our own world, but with those touches of magical realism, Ghibli is able to transform our hurdles into whirlwinds of fantasy that somehow further our understanding of the world around us. I can remember seeing Kiki's Delivery Service for the first time and thinking, "Whoa! She's thirteen and already so independent! I want to be like that, too!"

Also, to return to the treatment of females, Miyazaki has openly spoken about his desire to create women that his friends' children would admire, women that would serve as role models for young girls and solve their own issues without the need for a romantic interest. Women aren't looked upon as weak or simple minded in this films, and if you compile that with the existence of adorable dragon boys and moving castles, I'm in.

2. Pokémon

How could this not be on the list? They're literally adorable creatures with super powers. And everyone wants to catch 'em all, let's be real. There's just something so otherworldly and pure about the Pokémon universe that I can't help but love it. Can you imagine just casually walking down the street with your Vulpix by your side? It'd be lit (ba dum tsh).

The technology in this universe is also amazing. Remember that city in the film about Deoxys? SO MANY ESCALATOR SIDEWALKS. In fact, I think the film was the first place I saw them, so when I encountered them in real life, I was pretty psyched. And we could finally answer the question about what truly goes on inside the Pokeball, which is vital information.

1. Code Geass

My love for robots is showing. Seriously, the Knightmare Frames are so cool? Like? I want one?

To be completely and totally serious for a moment, though, Code Geass really hits home at the moment. If I look at the state of this country, I think about the startling events that could very well lead to the factors within this universe. Races being placed into their little boxes based upon the (white) people in power, a terrifying man on a throne telling everyone the proper way to exist, and the violence against those that think and live differently. Quite frankly, it's terrifying.

There are two different manners in which this is fought within the show, both of which have their merits. Beginning with the Black Knights, led by Lelouch vi Britannia--a former prince seeking to take down his father, the king and save Japan--are labeled as terrorists almost immediately due to their rash actions and meddling with government activities. This results in numerous civilian causalities, which cannot be ignored or overlooked because it is deplorable. The motto of the Black Knights, though, is that they fight on the side of those that remain at a disadvantage, leading them to shed their biases in some instances. The other option is that of Suzaku, who believes everything can be changed from within the system and becomes an honorary Britannian after his father, the prime minister of Japan, and the rest of his family are killed. Despite being a soldier, he is solidly against violence when he believes it can be avoided, but will readily protect those he loves.

I personally hate anything and everything that causes harm to those that merely wish to exist in peace, and while the circumstances in this universe are horrendous, at least the characters are doing something about it. I see so much complaining about this situation we are currently in--and yeah, I'm guilty of that, too--but we need to band together and do something.

The world will not change itself. We have to make the change.