How to Join a Talescape Contest

Every Talescape contest invites Bards to tell stories around a shared theme - from hope and loss to dreams and memory.

Whether you’re a seasoned writer or creating your first interactive story, this guide explains how to participate, submit, and celebrate your work.

Join the Talescape Discord

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.

Announcement: Each contest begins with a theme reveal on the Talescape Discord and the Contests page. Every event includes unique creative challenges you’ll need to weave into your story.
Creation: Use the Talescape Editor to craft your story around the theme. You can work alone or team up with collaborators.
Submission: Once your story is complete, publish it in the editor and mark it as a contest entry. You’ll receive a confirmation when your submission is accepted.
Voting & Results: After submissions close, the community reads, reviews, and votes on all entries. Winners are announced publicly, and prizes are distributed securely.

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.

Focus on Emotion: The strongest stories leave readers with a feeling that lingers long after the final scene. Write from emotion first, and let mechanics serve the heart of the tale.
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.
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.
Be Authentic: Your story doesn’t 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’s coming next.

For information about sponsorships or how contest themes are chosen, see the Sponsorship & Contest Topic Policy.

Join the Discord