>>116897508I dont think anyone has considered Avatar particularly dark, maybe "mature" or dealing with heavier themes but its always been considered a light hearted show.
What makes the world building isnt only that its fantasy Asia but how bending effects the cities in interesting ways. For example how airbenders live atop of mountains and the below the sheer of cliffs, or ba sing se and Omashu use earthbending to transport goods, people, and mail.
I can admit the mixed animals arnt the most creative but the creative designs for creatures mainly come from the spirits who were widely underused imo
