Talescape Contests
Create Interactive Stories Around Shared Themes
Multiple times a year, Talescape hosts story contests built around meaningful themes. From mental health to memory, from isolation to hope.
Every contest invites Bards to tell stories around a shared theme. Build your Tale in the Talescape Editor, submit it through the release workflow and let Dreamers play and vote.
Talescape contests
Create a story worth playing
Explore current contests, bring a theme to life, and share your story with the community.
October 1, 2026 – December 31, 2026
Demo: Memories of the City
The Four Stages of Creation
The Contest Journey
Every contest follows the same rhythm - from the moment a theme is revealed to the celebration of winning stories.
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Announcement
- Each contest begins with a theme reveal on the Talescape Discord and the Contests page. Every event includes unique creative challenges you need to weave into your story.
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Creation
- Use the Talescape Editor to craft your story around the theme. You can work alone or team up with collaborators.
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Submission
- Select a contest when creating a new story in the editor. Complete your Tale and submit a free playable release before the submission deadline.
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Voting & Results
- During voting, Dreamers play accepted entries and leave their votes. Reviews stay hidden until the contest ends. Results are announced automatically; any rewards are described on the contest page.
Before You Begin
Rules & Requirements
A few simple requirements ensure that every contest remains fair, inclusive and aligned with Talescape’s creative spirit.
- Eligibility
- Anyone with a verified Talescape payout account can participate. Verification keeps contests fair and ensures every Bard represents their own work and can receive prizes securely.
- Theme Freedom
- Each contest theme is meant to inspire, not confine. You can approach it in any style or genre - whether lighthearted, tragic, surreal or experimental.
- Content Standards
- All stories must follow the Talescape Content Guidelines. These rules protect both creative freedom and community safety by setting clear boundaries around acceptable material.
- Prizes
- Every contest includes a clearly defined prize pool announced before submissions open. Rewards are paid out transparently after review and community voting.
- Collaboration
- You may work solo or collaborate with other creators. Talescape values teamwork - shared worlds and combined talents often lead to the most memorable stories.
- Deadlines
- Each contest has a defined timeline for creation, submission and results. Deadlines are published alongside every theme so all participants can plan their work confidently.
Make Your Story Shine
Tips for Success
Talescape contests celebrate emotion, honesty and imagination. These small insights can help your story stand out - not by rules, but by resonance.
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Focus on Emotion
- The strongest stories leave players with a feeling that lingers long after the final scene. Write from emotion first and let mechanics serve the heart of the tale.
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Clarity Matters
- Give players a clear sense of direction and consequence. Every choice should feel like a reflection of intent, not confusion - simplicity often creates the deepest impact.
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Use Atmosphere Wisely
- Sound, pacing and imagery can transform a story into an experience. Use them to build immersion and tone, not as decoration - silence can be just as powerful.
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Be Authentic
- Your story does not need to impress - it needs to be sincere. Honesty in voice, theme and emotion will always resonate more than polish or perfection.
Be Among the First
The next contest will be announced on the Talescape Discord. Join early to share ideas, connect with other Bards and shape what is coming next.
For information about sponsorships or how contest themes are chosen, see the Sponsorship & Contest Topic Policy.