Hello and welcome to "March to the Beat of Your Own Drum", a zine centered solely around our favorite green drummerhog!The Sonic franchise has plenty of obscure characters that deserve love, and my mission with this zine is to help share the love for my favorite hedgehog, Manic! I'd also like to create an environment where other fans of him can connect and share their affection and why he makes them happy.This zine will be my first ever hosting, but I do have experience in participating in them. I also have experience with moderating a zine, as I've been a part of the moderation team for the "Sonic IDW Fan Annual" (Just released its second year, you should check it out too!). So while I may be new to hosting, I will do my best to make it a fun experience for participants.As such, because it is my first time, I do not feel confident in my ability to make this zine a physical print, nor do I have the experience/knowledge to make it for a charity. Once finished, it will be a completely free, digital download.Thank you for your time, I look forward to seeing what this community can bring~
Submission Specs
Page artists: A4 (2894 x 4093 px) canvas with at least 300 dpi
Spread artists: 5788 x 4093 px (two A4 pages combined) with at least 300 dpi
Comic artists: 1-3 pages of A4 (2894 x 4093 px) canvas with at least 300 dpi
Prose Writers: Around 3000 words or less
Application Guidelines
Material that perpetuates harm to marginalized groups will not be accepted.
When submitting a portfolio, please make sure at least one example is related to the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise. A Manic example would be the most preferable.
Make sure that your portfolio is accessible or else you will be passed over in the application process.
Collaborative efforts will be allowed, there will be a place to fill that information in when the form is public. All parties must fill out a form and list the team involved in that section.
Submission Guidelines
Page Artists may submit anywhere from 1-3 submissions.
Spread Artists may only submit 1 submission.
Comic Artist may only submit 1 submission.
Writers may submit only 1 submission.
Manic must be the center of attention in your piece. Other characters may show, but your piece has to center on him specifically.
AI usage is strictly forbidden for submissions, you will be kicked from the project if I find out you've used it for the zine.
Please refer to the table below for what is and isn't allowed
| Allowed | Not Allowed |
|---|---|
| Swearing | NSFW |
| Light Blood/Injury | Extreme Gore |
| Light Violence | Drug Use |
FAQ
1. So is this a Sonic Underground zine?
No. This is a character zine. The main focus should be Manic. The siblings or any other character can show up, but Manic must be the center of attention.
2. Are OCs allowed?
Yes! But they must follow the same rule. They can not overshadow Manic or be the center of attention.
3. Would shipping be allowed?
Of course! Partners may even share the spotlight with Manic, just make sure that he's not being overshadowed.
4. Are AU's allowed?
Absolutely! I encourage any form of Manic, even versions whose story diverges way away from canon.
5. Will follower counts or previous experience in zines play any part in choosing applicants?
No. I'd like to achieve a fair balance of big accounts and small accounts so everyone has a chance. You do not need prior experience, either, I'd like my zine to be a good gateway point for beginners to get some experience. Just give me your best examples in your portfolio.
6. Where will we find the zine once it's complete?
Still not sure, exactly, I've seen quite a few options when it comes to hosting zines. I'll probably leave it open for approved participants to suggest ideas.
7. Will there be a Discord?
Yes! Approved participants will receive a link to the Discord in their acceptance email.
8. Do I have to join the Discord?
Yes. It will keep things more organized for me having all the contributors in one place. Collaborative partners will also have to join. If you leave the server before the release of the zine, then you'll forfeit your spot.
9. Will I need to make a pitch?
Pitches are completely optional! If you have an idea in mind already that you'd like to send, then feel free!
| Stage | Date |
|---|---|
| Interest Check | Nov 1 - Nov 30 |
| Applications | Dec 8 2023- Jan 7 2024 |
| Applications Closed/Review | Jan 8 - Jan 17 |
| Application Results/Server Invites | Jan 18 |
| Check-In #1 (Thumbnail/Sketch) | Feb 26 |
| Check-In #2 (Lineart/Flats) | Apr 20 |
| Check-In #3 (Shading/Touch Ups) | Jun 18 |
| Soft Deadline | Jul 17 |
| Hard Deadline | Jul 31 |
| Release | Aug 15 |