In this research network (2018–2020) we are thirteen researchers who work with media fictions (television, film, games, literature), human play (real and virtual), and production design. We join theories from the humanities with biocultural, evolutionary, and cognitive theories. We think fantastic fiction offers imaginary play and cognitive meta-thinking and ask why the fantastic has exploded in contemporary entertainment, how and why we play with – create, design, use, engage with – the fantastic, and why the fantastic is adaptive and important for human existence. We include all fantastic subgenres, such as supernatural horror, fairy tales, science fiction, fantasy, and superheroes. The network connects partners in Denmark, the US, the UK, and Australia and is led by Rikke Schubart, University of Southern Denmark. Website: goo.gl/G6LkUG