Fan fiction describes fiction which is written about a setting or universe by a person other than the original creator of that universe. Stories written by fans of the original work are not usually published, and are usually written independently of the original author.

Fanfiction can be broadly divided into two categories, stories that work within the established events and lore of the Warcraft universe, and those that take an alternative view.

Stories that work within the existing lore and history of Azeroth and Outland can be considered to be written within the ‘canon’ of the Warcraft universe. Many readers prefer to read stories which work alongside their understanding of the games and the lore. Thrall’s escape from Durnholde is central to the re-organisation of the Horde and Medivh’s mechanations open the portal to Outland. Stories that follow the lore of the Warcraft setting keep with the known facts of Azerothian history, and work around them.

For example – a story which features Taretha living in Durnholde Keep while Thrall is still a prisoner there, would follow the history of the Warcraft universe. But a story in which Taretha flees Durnholde before she is killed, and makes her way to Lordaeron to become Forsaken does not follow this history.

Working within these limitations makes the establishment of new events and heroes difficult, as people who are very famous would already be mentioned in the established lore. While it can be a challenge to follow the canon and history of the Warcraft universe in your story, well-written fiction will slide seamlessly into the existing world, enhancing and deepening the events known to everyone.

But what if Taretha did escape Blackmoore and join the ranks of the Forsaken? “What if” stories can be as much fun to write as they are to read, but its often a good idea to warn the reader before they get too far. After all, you want them to enjoy your story, not argue with the facts.

Making your story different will encourage people to read past the first lines. If your story is the fifteenth in a row about an amusing exploding goblin cake at a wedding, then the joke might not be as funny as it was the first time. Readers will remember your story, whether funny or serious, if it is original.

The editors at the Gadgetzan Times are busy working through piles of correspondence from their freelance agents. In order for a story to be published it needs to be written well, with as few spelling mistakes and grammar errors as possible. Remember those goblins will need to tidy up your story to make it ready for publication, so double check your story when its finished, reading it carefully to make sure that you haven’t forgotten any letters, commas, or a whole word! Maybe a triple check just to be sure…