List Of Alternate Universes
Ā Alternate Universe (also known asĀ alternate reality), isĀ commonly abbreviated as AU and it is a descriptor used to characterize fanworks which change one or more elements of the source workās canon.Ā The term most often refers to fanfiction, but fanart can also depicted the characters in AUs.
Unlike regular fanfiction, which generally remains within the boundaries of the canon set out by the author, alternate universe fiction writers like to explore the possibilities of pivotal changes made to charactersā history, motivations, or environment.
Akira AU ā The characters of another fandom are put into the plot and setting of theĀ 1988 Japanese animated post-apocalyptic cyberpunk film, AkiraĀ which is based on the Japanese manga by Katsuhiro Otomo.
Alien Invasion AU ā In which the story deals with an alien invasion when canonically it does not ever happened.
All Human AU ā In which characters who are canonically non-human are now humans, with corresponding changes to their backstories.
Alpha/Beta/OmegaĀ AU ā Often referred to as A/B/O or even Omegaverse. ItĀ is a growing kink trope of an AUĀ wherein some or all the characters have defined biological roles based on a hierarchical system, with the terms originating from animal behavior research. There may be werewolf, knotting, or other animalistic elements involved, or the characters may be otherwise purely human. The characters are either Alphas (dominant males or females), Betas (ordinary working class), or Omegas (submissive males or females).
Amnesia AU ā In this AU a character suffers from amnesia, which may or may not be temporarily. If lost or alone sometimes they have no form of identification on them, or records to help make identifying them easier. The amnesic character sometimes build a new life somewhere else with other characters or theyāre found by someone that knew them from before. They might help them regain what they lost or not if they happened to be a ābadā person (the reverse can also happen, in which a bad character finds the amnesic good character to convert them to the bad side).
An American Werewolf in London AU ā In which the characters are put into the 1981 British-American horror comedy film, An American Werewolf in London.Ā
Ancient Egypt AU ā It is also known as Pharaoh AU andĀ in this AU the canon story is replace with the setting of Ancient Egypt. The characters are mostly still themselves, but they are either a part of the royal family, servants to the royal family, normal citizens or all of above.
Android AU ā This AU is mostly set in a futuristic world. In which the main character or most of the cast are turn into androids. Sometimes they do not haveĀ āfree willā or true āconsciousnessā until something happens to make them go beyond their programming. Writers might set it up as they were created to serve different purposes, such as a bodyguard, solider, caregiver and so on. Usually they pair the android character with a human character that helps them understand what it means or feels to be human. In other cases it becomes something similar to Absolute Boyfriend (also known asĀ Zettai Kareshi) where they are mail order androids which can be customized from online or from catalogs. Usually for the purpose of dating, sex or platonic companionship. If not, they may have originally been human, but turned into an android for whatever reason, usually to prevent their death.
Angel/Demon AU āĀ When angels and demons exist (in the case of canons that donāt have them) or a character is recast as one of them. However, these kind of AUs donāt necessarily need both beings in the story as some tend to focus on only one of them.
Animal Shelter AU ā Is also known as Pet Shelter AU. In this AU the characters either work at the animal shelter, are volunteers or looking to adopt a pet.
Antique Shop AU ā Similar to the Flower Shop AU or Bookstore AU. In which, one half of the main pairing is the shop owner or cashier and the other is or becomes their favorite customer.Ā
Apocalypse AU -Ā This AU covers all sorts of apocalyptic scenarios; pandemic (whether natural or man-made), robot uprising, nuclear holocaust, natural disasters, resource depletion, monsters (like vampires, Kaiju, etc.), aliens, astronomical (like asteroid, solar flare, etc.), end of the world (which is a future time-period described variously in the eschatologies of several world religions) and so on. Most apocalypse AUs are all about exploring certain themes, which depend on whatever the catastrophic event the writers want to put the characters of a fandom through. Be it the classism, social unrest, societal upheaval, the psychology aspect of survival or how the charactersĀ rediscover the ancient ways of hunting and foraging for food, preserving food, building shelter, and so on. To be more specific of what kind of apocalypse the AU will be about, most will give it a label such as Zombie Apocalypse AU, Vampire Apocalypse AU, etc.
Archaeology AU ā In which a character is an archaeologist that studies historical artifacts, structures (e.g. standing and ruined buildings), and so on. Usually they uncover something old like jewelry, a tomb, temple, or whatnot from an fandom thatās set in historical times, fictional or mythical pre-history (i.e. Viking Age, Feudal Japan, Middle-Earth, etc.). The object or actions of the archaeologist character triggers a curse, they get transported back in time, or they dream of another characterās life during those times (or they dream of their past life).
Arranged Marriage AU ā Similar to the Marriage Law AU, only the difference is that not all the characters are required to be married.Ā It is mostly focused on only one pairing and it is usually a pairing thatĀ wouldnāt normally get together such as crack ships or doomed ships.
Assassin AU ā Is when characters of a fandom or just one of them is recast as an assassin, aĀ professional killer that is hired through an impartial third-partyĀ to kill a target individual or group of people, in exchange for some form of payment, monetary or otherwise.
Assassinās Creed AU ā Is an AU that puts the characters of another fandom into the plot and setting of theĀ action-adventure stealth video game. Sometimes it does not and it just borrows the idea of the characters either being Assassinsā, who fight for peace with free will, or theĀ Templars, who desire peace through control.
Atlantis AU ā Is not to be confused with Undersea AU. In this AU the characters from a fandom are placed into the setting (and sometimes borrow the plot as well) of the 2001 American animatedĀ filmĀ Atlantis: The Lost Empire.
Avatar AU āĀ Is also known as Bender AU (not to be confused with Na'vi AU) is an AU that puts the characters into the world of Avatar: The Last Airbender and/or The Legend of Korra.Ā This AU gained popularity due to the concept of the characters being able to manipulate one of the four elements.
Baby AU ā When the entire cast or most of them are reverted into children or babies. Usually one of the characters is still an adult that takes care of them, while someone else figures out how to change them back into adults again.
Babysitter AU ā Is also known as Nanny AU. In which one of the character has a younger sibling, younger family member or is a parent with a child and needs a babysitter for them. This AU can also apply for pets.
Bakery AU ā When most of the cast of a story works at a bakery while the rest are customers.
Ballet AU ā Similar to the Dance AU, in whichĀ one or more characters have a passion or interest in ballet. Usually they join a dance studio that teaches ballet. If not, they or the entire cast are students of a prestigious ballet academy.
Bartender AU ā Is also known as Bar AU. In which one of the characters work as a Bartender, while the rest of the casts are either their customers or coworkers.
BDSM AU ā Is when the entire cast is either a dominant or a submissive and BDSM relationships are considered the norm. Be advised that while a healthy BDSM relationship is consensual and not dangerous, if handled incorrectly it can result in abusive behavior which is offensive and considered bad BDSM etiquette.
BioShock AU āĀ In this AU, the characters of a fandomĀ are portrayed as the characters from the video game series BioShock. Writers find the idea of the characters being trapped in the underwater city of Rapture (or the floating city of Columbia) appealing while they face ADAM-obsessed enemies and the iconic, deadly Big Daddies (or Handyman/Songbird).
Blade Runner AU ā Is an AU where the characters of another fandom are placed into the plot of the 1982 neo-noir science fiction film, Blade Runner or the 2017 sequelĀ Blade Runner 2049. If not, the story may borrow theĀ setting and technology of a dystopian future Los Angeles, in which synthetic humans known as replicants are bio-engineered by the powerful Tyrell Corporation to do labor work.Ā
BattleĀ Royale AU ā In which characters of a fandom are placed into a dystopian world whereĀ they are forced to fight each other to the death in a program run by a authoritarian Japanese government. This AU is based onĀ the 1999 novel by Koushun Takami, Battle Royale.
Blind Date AU ā In which two character are set up on a blind date with each other, usually arranged by a mutual acquaintance or a matchmaking program.
Blogger AU ā Is similar to Youtuber AU, in which a character is well-known for their blog. Usually itās focused on one or more of their favorite interests, be it trying different food,Ā sharing what their lifestyle is like, hobbies that they enjoy like photography or fashion. If not, they might write articles on current events, do interviews or give advice about various subjects. Usually the rest of the cast is their fans or they meet them through their blogging adventures.
Bodyguard AU ā In which a character is a highly-trained bodyguard that is paid to protect anotherĀ from harm or threats. This usually results in the two becoming a couple, but sometimes itāsĀ subverted and instead the bodyguard character may fall for their clientās friend or family member when doing their job.
Bodyswap AU ā It is also known as Freaky Friday AU. In which two or more characters swap bodies (or, equally, swap minds) by some form of magic or science. Typically, a deeper appreciation of the otherās life is attained in these AU stories.
Bonnie and Clyde AU ā In this AU, two of the characters in a fandom (usually a pairing)Ā take on the roles of the American criminal couple, Bonnie and Clyde. Together, they traveled the land robbing people and killing when cornered or confronted.
Bookstore AU ā When most of the casts works at a bookstore. If not, usually a few of the characters work there, while the rest of them are customers. Another version is the Library AU, in which one or two of the characters are librarians, while the rest of the cast spend their time looking for particular books to read or for information.
Bounty Hunter AU ā Is also known as Recovery Agent AU. These AU stories usually focus on a pairing, in which one of the characters isĀ a bounty hunter, who captures fugitives for a bounty and the other is the fugitive.
Business AU ā In which the story is set in an office building and the characters are employees. Sometimes it is focus on one character who works as a personal secretary and another character as their boss.
Cambion AU ā Is an AU that recasts a character as a Cambion which is a hybrid being thatās half-human and half-demon. The opposite of this would be a Nephilim, which is the offspring of an angel and a human.
Catboy/Catgirl AU ā Is when a canon character becomesĀ a half-cat person, thus having cat ears, a cat tail, fangs, and claws.Ā
Circus AU ā In which the story is set in a circus and the characters are circus performers or customers.
Coffee Shop AU ā Also known as Barista AU. In most cases, one half of the main pairing is the barista and the other is or becomes their favorite customer; in some stories the whole cast works at a coffee shop.
Corpse Bride AU ā Is an AU where the characters from another fandom are placed into the roles and/or plot from Tim Burtonās Corpse Bride.
Corpse Party AU ā In this AU, the character of a fandom are placed into the setting or plot of theĀ survival horror adventure video game series,Ā Corpse Party.
Crime AU ā In which the characters of a story are various type of criminals, such as burglars, bank robbers, gangsters, drug dealers, smugglers, hitman/fixer and so on. This AU focuses on their criminal lives. It is similar to the Mafia AU.
Crimson Peak AU ā Is an AU in which the characters are placed in the story of Guillermo del Toroās 2015 American gothic romance film, Crimson Peak.
Crossdressing AU ā It is a kink trope of an AU in which one or most of the characters are put into a plot or scenario that has them crossdressing.
Dance AU āĀ Is an AUĀ that has one or two characters that have a passion or interest for dancing. They go out to clubs or join a dance studio to learn. Or they own a dance studio and prefer to teach it. Sometimes the entire cast are students of a dance school.Ā
Dark Fantasy AU ā Is aĀ subgenre of fantasy, which incorporate darker and frightening themes of fantasy (such asĀ the dark and frightening side of human nature, psychology and the weird, sublime and uncanny).Ā It also often combines fantasy with elements of horror or has a gloomy, dark (or grimdark) atmosphere, or a sense of horror and dread. Examples of this type of genre that this AUs might use are Stephen KingāsĀ The Gunslinger, Glen Cookās The Black Company, Neil Gaimanās Coraline, Jim Hensonās The Dark Crystal, Michael Endeās The Neverending Story, Andrzej Sapkowskiās The Witcher, Guillermo del Toroās Panās Labyrinth, etc.
Darkside AU ā Is when the canon villain of the story succeeded in their ultimate mission or goals and the AU story focuses on the outcome of it. For example: In Harry Potter, what would happen if Voldemort had won? Or what if Tom Riddle had been successful in sucking out all the life energy from Ginny and had come back alive?Ā
Dawn of the Dead AU ā In which the characters are put into the plot of the 1978 Italian-American independent zombie horror filmĀ by George A. Romero or the 2004 remake of it.
Dead Space AU ā Is when the characters of a fandom are place into the setting or plot of theĀ science fiction survival horror video game, Dead Space.
Death Note AU ā Is an AU in which a character from another fandom comesĀ across a mysterious otherworldly notebook: the āDeath Noteā. It grants the user the supernatural ability to kill anyone whose name is written in its pages.Ā That is because it belongs a Shinigami, which is usually what another character is cast as.
Delivery AU ā In this AU, a character is a food delivery driver for either pizza, Chinese, or groceries. The restaurant or store they work for gains a regular customer, which is another character that usually is who theyāre paired with.
Deserted Island AU ā Or also known as Uninhabited Island AU. Is when a main character and another character are trapped or stranded on a deserted island, usually from being shipwrecked, their plane crashing, or they wereĀ left behind. Sometimes this includes the entire cast of the fandom and other times it just focuses on a pairing.
Dhampir AU āĀ Is an AU in which a character of a fandom is recast as a Dhampir; a human with vampire strengths but without most of their weaknesses or disadvantages. They usually take on the role of a hero who protects humans from vampires or to keep the peace between the two species. For example: Blade from the Blade film series, D from Vampire Hunter D, Saya from Blood: The Last Vampire, Adrian/Alucard from Castlevania, etc.
Disability AU ā Related to this AU and is most commonly used is Deaf AU, Mute AU, and Blind AU. In which one of the characters is born or becomes impaired with anĀ cognitive, developmental, intellectual, mental, physical, sensory, or some combination of these. Usually these types of AUs explore the characterās life of what itās like being born with the disability or what itās like now having it, and how those around them behave/interact with them and so on.
Dishonored AU ā In which the characters are put into the setting and/or plot of theĀ 2012 stealth action-adventure video game, Dishonored.
Dog Walker AU ā In this AU, a character (which may or may not be canon) has a dog and is need of a dog walker. This set up is usually a way to bring together a pairing.
Dragon AU ā In this AU, itās centered around a world inhabited by dragons. One or more characters that are canonically human are changed into dragons or have dragons forms. Usually theyĀ coexisted with humans, but not always. And sometimes this AU includes wizards, witches, princesses, and of course knights.
Dystopian AU ā Is set in a dystopian society that is not the original setting of the canon. Some of the most famous examples of dystopian fiction that these AU stories use are George Orwellās Nineteen Eighty-Four,Ā Aldous Huxleyās Brave New World,Ā Anthony Burgessās A Clockwork Orange, Margaret Atwoodās The Handmaidās Tale, James Dashnerās The Maze Runner, Warren Spectorās Deus Ex, John Wagnerās Judge Dredd, Alan Mooreās V for Vendetta, and so on.
Ella Enchanted AU ā In which a character is given a curse/gift of obedience by fairy.Ā As a result, they canāt disobey a direct order given to them, whether it is chopping off their own head or hopping on one foot for a day. This AU is based onĀ Gail Carson Levineās book, Ella Enchanted.
Eragon AU ā Is an AU in which the characters are put into the world and/or plot ofĀ Christopher Paoliniās Eragon.Ā
Fairy Tale AU ā In which characters are put into situations and/or settings from fairy tales, such as Beauty and the Beast, Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, Frozen, etc. Other times itās uses the Grimmās fairy tales versions,Ā which is a much more darker telling of the stories. These AU stories do not have to be exactly like the fairy tales, since most writers like to put their own spin to them.
Fake/Pretend RelationshipĀ AU ā Is also known as Fake Dating AU (or Fake Marriage AU). Is when two characters are throw together in extended proximity and then explore the hidden, or not so hidden, feelings that develop. This AU covers all sorts of pretenses; marriages of convenience, undercover identities, investigations, financial schemes, immigration schemes, high school reunion dates, wedding dates, making someone jealous, and so on.
Fallout AU ā In this AU, it places the characters into the plot or setting of theĀ post-apocalyptic role-playing video game series, Fallout.
Fantasy AU ā In which the story takes place in a fantasy universe where magic is normal, technology is nonexistent, and magical creatures orĀ mythical beingsĀ exist. Some of the most famous examples of fantasy fiction that this kind of AUs use are C. S. LewisāsĀ The Chronicles of Narnia, J. R. R. TolkienāsĀ The Lord of the Rings, Philip PullmanāsĀ His Dark Materials,Ā Ursula K. Le Guinās The Earthsea Cycle, Terry Brooksā Shannara, and so on.
Fatal Frame AU ā Is also known as Project Zero AU. It places the characters of a fandom into the 2001 survival horror game. Sometimes the story coexists with the gameās canon and other times it does not. The most popular of the series that these AU stories picked is the setting and plot ofĀ Fatal Frame II: Crimson Butterfly.Ā
Flower Shop AU ā Similar to the Coffee Shop AU and the Bakery AU, but instead the entire cast works in a flower shop. Or one of the characters works there while the rest are customers.
Fortune Teller AU ā In this AU, a character is a fortune teller (they might be a fraud or genuinely clairvoyant)Ā and another character comes in as their customer.Ā
FrankensteinĀ AU ā In this AU the characters are put into theĀ novel byĀ Mary Shelley whichĀ tells the story of a young scientist named Frankenstein, who creates a hideous, sapient creature in an unorthodox scientific experiment.
Fright Night AU ā In which the character of another fandomĀ are put into the 1985 American horror film, Fright Night or theĀ 2011 remake of it.Ā
Game of Thrones AU ā In this AU the characters are place into the fantasy setting and plot of George R. R. Martinās series.
Genderswap AU ā Is also known as Genderbend AU. In which one or more characters in the story switch binary sexes, such as depicting a male character as a cis woman.
Genie/Djinn AU ā In which one of the charactersĀ is a Genie, who is capable of granting wishes. Theyāre found by another character (usually who theyāre paired with) that helped them or freed them from whatever they were imprisoned in. And as an reward the genie character will grant them three wishes (or more). When itās the latter, the AU usually turns intoĀ a Aladdin type of story orĀ I Dream of Jeannie.
Ghibli AU ā Is also known as Studio Ghibli AU. In which a fandom borrows the plot, setting or whatnot from one of Studio Ghibli most revered and beloved animated works such as Spirited Away, Princess Mononoke,Ā Kikiās Delivery Service, Howlās Moving Castle, and so on.
Ghost AU ā Is also known as Paranormal AU. In which one of the characters is a ghost and they haunt the location of where they were killed (or they died naturally). They may even haunt whoever disturbed their resting place or they have unfinished business and want someone ā usually a living characterās help to finish it. But them being a ghost doesnāt necessarily mean that theyāre actually dead. Sometimes a character may appear as a ghost, but is actually alive and in a coma. Another reason is that they may even have ghost powers/abilities. Other times they are truly dead, but can be bought back to life with magic. Or they may be able toĀ possess another characterās body permanently, instead of temporarily.
Ghostbusters AU ā This AU is about the 1984 American fantasy comedy film, Ghostbusters. Sometimes these AU stories place the characters of another fandom into the plot of the film and other times they do not. When they donāt, the characters are usually portrayed as eitherĀ ghosts or the people that ābustā them.Ā
Giant/Tiny AU ā In which a character or the entire cast are giants or tiny folks. Either theyāre naturally born that way and live alongside with humans or have been shrink down or enlarged because of magic or a device (which may or may not be temporary). When itās the latter, the AU story mostly focuses on a mini version of the characters existing, usually for the purpose of a pocket-sized companion or āpetā. Related to this is Bitty AU (also known as Bittybones AU), which is popular in the Undertale fandom.
Good Omens AU ā In which the characters are put into the miniseries show based on the 1990 novel of the same name by Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman.
Gravity Falls AU ā In this AU the cast of another fandom are put into theĀ American animated television series.
Gremlins AU ā Is an AU that places the characters of a fandom into the plot of the 1984 American comedy horror film, Gremlins. Sometimes it only borrows the idea of a character finding or purchasing a little creature of an unknown species to have as a pet. The character either ignores, accidentally forgets or unknowingly breaks one (or more) of the strict rules for the safety and proper care of the creature.Ā
Grocery Store AU ā Also known as Supermarket AU. In which a character or the entire cast work at a grocery store or are customers of it.
Groundhog Day AU ā Is an AU, inspired by the 1993 American comedy fantasy film, Groundhog Day.Ā In whichĀ a character (usually only one character) is caught in a time loop, doomed to repeat a period of time (often exactly one day) over and over, until something is corrected.
Hacker AU ā In which a character is or becomes a highly skilled computer expert. They usuallyĀ seek and exploit weaknesses in the government, private or companyās computer system or computer network for their own gain. If not, theyāre paid to do so to test the systems or to block attempts made by other hackers.
Half-Life AU ā Is an AU in which the characters of another fandom are put into the world or plot of theĀ first-person shooter video game, Half-Life.Ā Ā
Hanahaki Disease AU ā In which everything is still canon, exceptĀ an fictional disease known as Hanahaki exists within it. Those that catch the disease coughs up flower petals when they suffer from one-sided love. Their lungs get filled with the flowers and their respiratory system grows roots. They choke on their own blood and petals, and die. It can be cured through surgical removal, but when the infection is removed, the victimās romantic feelings for their love alsoĀ disappear. Sometimes this also removes the victimās ability to ever love again. Another way to be cured of it is forĀ the object of the victimās love returns their affections, thus making the love no longer unrequited.
Harem AU ā Or Reverse Harem AU is when a story thatĀ doesnāt contain anyĀ polygamous or love triangle relationships turns into one. Usually, but not always, the main character has something happen to them that attracts the other characters to them. It might be from a love potion, experimental perfume, spell gone wrong, sex pollen, and so on.
Haunted House AU ā Or Haunted Castle AU, in which a character moves into a new home or castle and doesnāt know that it is haunted (usually by a ghost, sometimes a demon or some other type of creature). Another option is that they are dared (or force) by their friends (or so called friends) to spend the night in it.Ā
High School/College AU ā In which the characters are shown in high school or in college together. They are often done with characters who canonically meet later in life, altering or entirely overwriting their original backstories. Similar to this AU is the Boarding School AU and the Elementary School AU.
Hitman AU āĀ Is an AU that puts the characters of another fandom into the plot and setting of the stealth video game series, Hitman.Ā If not, it usually only borrows the idea of Agent 47, a genetically enhanced assassin, who travels to international locations to eliminates contracted targets.
Holes AU ā Is an AU that puts the characters intoĀ the 2003 American adventure comedy-drama film, which isĀ based on the 1998 novel of the same name by Louis Sachar.
Hocus Pocus AU āĀ In which the characters from another fandom are placed into the character roles and/or plot of theĀ 1993 American comedy horror fantasyĀ film Hocus Pocus.
Holiday AU ā In this AU, a holiday that doesnāt exist or happen in canon, because of location, time period or charactersā views does. Usually this is done as a one-shot, chapter special or filler episode, which allows characters of a fandom to celebrate or commemorate and/or experience an event or tradition of cultural or religious significance. Such as Aprilās Fools Day, Earth Day, Fatherās Day, Samhain/Halloween, Yule, Winter Solstice, Christmas, Kwanzaa, Hanukkah/Chanukah/įø¤anukah, New Yearās Day, Valentineās Day and so on.
Hogwarts AU ā It is also known as Harry Potter AU. In which the characters from other fandoms are placed into the setting of Harry Potter. These can be coexistent with Harry Potter canon, or ignore it entirely. But they are often portrayed as students of Hogwarts instead of teachers that work there.
Hospital AU ā In which the characters of a story are doctors, nurses and patients in a hospital (sometimes it is set in an asylum).Ā
Host AU ā In which a character of a fandom or non-canon character has become a host to an alien organism/parasite/entity or anĀ supernatural, sentientĀ object (e.g. gauntlet, armor, school uniform, etc.) that forms an symbiotic bond with them.
Host Club AU ā Or Hostess Club AU, is an AU based off Ouran High School Host Club.Ā It focuses more on the idea of the male characters of a fandomĀ forming or joining a Host Club to earn money by catering and entertaining women.Ā These clubsĀ are distinguished from strip clubs in that there is no dancing, prostitution, or nudity.Ā
Hooker AU āĀ Where one or more of the characters is a sex worker. The more common is theĀ Pretty Woman-type fantasy of a hooker with a heart of gold, rescued from life on the streets by a client. Sex work of all kinds is portrayed: brothels, escorts, street prostitution, ācall-girlsā as well as strippers and go-go boys. Most of the time one character of the pairing is the hooker and the other the client, though some stories have both characters as prostitutes (sometimes along with other canon characters, in either a brothel-type setting or living on the streets).
Hunger Games AU āĀ In which characters from other stories are competitors in the Hunger Games.
Ice Cream ShopĀ AU ā When the casts works at an ice cream shop. Sometimes one of the characters owns the shop, while the rest are employees or customers.
Imaginary Friend AU ā In this AU, a character has an imaginary friend, which is another character that they āimaginedā usually in their childhood. The imaginary friend (also known as invisible friend) isnāt always human, they may take on the shape of an animal or other abstract ideas such as ghosts, monsters or angels.
Imprinting AU ā Is not related to the Soulmate AU, but it is similar and was made popular by the Twilight series. The idea was that a character would imprint on another character, who they become unconditionally bound to them for the rest of their life. The imprinter is deemed to be the āperfect matchā to the imprintee.
Jumanji AU ā In which the characters of another fandom are put in to the world and/or plot of theĀ 1995 American fantasy adventure film.
Jurassic AU ā It is also known as Prehistoric AUĀ or Dinosaur AU.Ā In this AU, characters travel, survive and spend time with ancient, prehistoric and extinct animals from Prehistoric/Jurassic past. Sometimes they are turned into dinosaurs and other kinds of prehistoric animals. This AU can also refer to other Jurassic/Prehistoric tales, books, films and TV shows, such asĀ Dinosaur King, Prehistoric Park, Dinotopia, Ice Age, Dinosaur Planet, The Lost World,Ā and more.
Labyrinth AU āĀ In which the characters from another fandom are placed into the setting and/or plot of the 1986 fantasy film Labyrinth. Sometimes the story may coexist with the filmāsĀ canon, or ignore it entirely with their own spin to it.
Law Enforcement/Military AU ā In which the cast are policeman, federal agents, soldiers, marines or whatnot and the story focuses on their work and lives.
Legion AU ā Also known as Dominion AU. It is not to be confused with the Marvel Comic television show, Legion. In this AU, the characters are put into the plot of theĀ 2010 American apocalyptic fantasy action horror film, Legion.Ā Or the television series called Dominion, which is set 25 years after the end of the film.Ā Sometimes the writers only borrow the apocalyptic fantasy setting of possessed humans and angels.
Life Is Strange AU ā In this AU, the characters of a fandom are put into the roles and plot of the video game Life Is Strange. These can be coexistent with Life Is Strange canon, or ignore it entirely. If itās the latter the AU usually borrows and plays around with characterāsĀ ability to rewind time at any moment.
Lifeguard AU ā In which one of the characters is a rescuer who supervises the safety and rescue of swimmers, surfers, and other water sports participants such as in a swimming pool, water park, spa, beach or river. Sometimes the rest of the cast is fellow lifeguards or those that theyāve recused. This AU usually borrows from an Australian factual television show,Ā Bondi Rescue.
Lovecraftian AU ā In which the AU contains elements to or reminiscent of the work of the American fantasy and horror fiction author H.P. Lovecraft.
Mafia AU ā In which the characters are in a mafia, usually there are more than one mafia family existing in it. These AU stories focus on the mafiaās life. Thereās murder, extortion, corruption of public officials, gambling, infiltration of legitimate businesses, labor racketeering, loan sharking, tax fraud schemes and stock manipulation schemes. Sometimes these AU stories are set in the 1920-90s era.
Maid/Butler AU ā In which one of the characters or half of the cast are domestic workers employed by an individual or for a family. Sometimes they work for a company that sends them to where theyāre needed. Either way, they perform a variety of household services, such as providing care for children and elderly dependents to housekeeping, including cleaning and household maintenance. Other responsibilities may include cooking, laundry and ironing, shopping for food and other household errands.
Magic AU ā Incorporate magic in stories where there is no magic present in canon.
Magical Girl/Boy AU ā In which the characters are able toĀ transformed into aĀ secret identity often referred to magical girl or boy with the power ofĀ friendship, love or justice. Most of these AUs are very tongue-in-cheek.
Marriage Law AU ā It spawn from the Marriage Law Challenge in the Harry Potter fandom, in which the premise is toĀ forced marriage between aĀ Muggle-bornĀ to a Pure-bloodĀ (or Half-Blood) due to a new decree passed by the Ministry of Magic to help preserve the magical population.Ā
Master/Slave AU āĀ In which the cast are place in an universe where slavery is an accepted economic and cultural institution. Some stories treat this as a significant moral problem to be resisted and overthrown if possible; others treat slavery as an unchangeable institution.
Mating Cycle AU ā It is also known as In Heat AU. In which the characters are in an AU where itās the norm for them (it does not matter if theyāre human or not) to feel the urge to have sex for biological reasons outside of their control (in other words, they go into Heat or a Rut as most animals do).Ā
Mechanic AU āĀ In which a canon or non-canon character is a Mechanic, also known as Automotive Service Technician. They inspect, diagnose, repair and maintain vehicles for clients. They usually meet or work with the rest of the cast at their job at the repair shop. Usually this happens with a pairing, in which one half is the Mechanic and the other is their client.Ā
Medium AU ā Is when one of the characters is aĀ āMediumā, who has the ability to communicate with spirits of the dead and/or be able to see them.Ā Sometimes the character works with a local law enforcement agency in criminal investigations to solve cases, but other times the spirits go to them to resolve their problems and cross over into the light, or the spirit world (similar to the American supernatural television show Ghost Whisperer). The rest of the characters are either ghosts, their friends or co-workers.
Merpeople AU ā Or also known as Undersea AU, in which a story is set in the ocean (or a large lake) and the characters are turned into mermaids and merman. Sometimes itās focus on only one character that becomes a mermaid/merman and another character that is human. When itās the latter the AU usually turns into a Little Mermaid type of story. Sometimes the characters are Cecaelia (a race of sea beings with an upper body of a human, and the lower torso of a squid or octopus). If not, they might be some other type of sea/water creature that is humanoid (or has a human form), such as a Kelpie, Selkie, Water Dragon, etc.Ā
Model/Photographer AU ā In this AU, theĀ focus is usually on a pairing, in which one of the characters is a model and the other is the photographer.
Modern AU ā In which characters from a historical (or pseudo-historical) canon universe are placed into a modern setting.
Monster AU ā In which the characters are changed into non-human creatures, such as Incubus/Succubus, Naga, Oni, Centaur, Banshee, Siren, Dullahan, Kitsune, Changeling, Satyr, Selkie, Minotaur, Faun, Goblin, Troll, Orc, Imp, Harpy, Fairy, Jinn, Gorgon, andĀ other kinds of monsters.
Monster Under The Bed AU ā It is also known as Monster In The Closet AU. This AU usually focuses on a pairing, in which one of the characters is anĀ ordinaryĀ human and the other character is a monster who lives underneath their bed (or in their closet).
Mundane AU āĀ In this AU the stories that are canonically set in a Science Fiction, Fantasy or Horror have thoseĀ genre elements removed. The resulting AU takes place in our own mundane world without magic, non-human creatures, time travel or alien technology. This AU is sometimes known as Non-Magical AU, which refersĀ to fandoms like Merlin or Harry PotterĀ that canonical have magic become ānon-magicalā.
Natural Remedies Shop AU ā Is also known as Remedies Herb Shop AU. In which one of the character owns or works in a shop that sells loose herbs, roots and spices, essential oils, flower essences and tinctures. It even offers natural skin care, healing crystals, smudging supplies, books, jewelry, and a wide variety of culinary and bath salts. Usually the rest of the cast are their customers, looking forĀ organic and/or chemical free remedies for their needs.
Naāvi AU āĀ In this AU the charactersĀ are placed in the world of James Cameronās film, Avatar and they are usually portrayed as NaŹ¼vis; a blue alien race that reside on Pandora or the humans explorers.
Nephilim AU ā Is an AU that recasts a character as a Nephilim which is a hybrid being thatāsĀ half-human, and half-angel. The opposite of this would be a Cambion, which isĀ the offspring of an incubus/succubus or a demon of any kind, and a human.
Night at the Museum AU ā In this AU, the characters from another fandom are placed in to the plot and/or setting of theĀ fantasy-comedy film series Night at the Museum. Usually one of the character is a night security guard and the rest of the cast are the exhibits that come to life. If not, they may be a visitor to the museum or work there as an Archivists, Curator, and so on.
No Human AU ā Also known as Animal AU, is the opposite of All Human AU, in whichĀ characters that are canonically human are now non-humans. In this AU the characters are typically turned into cats, dogs or sometimes even into birds.
Noir Detective AU ā In which the characters are put in a typical ā40s or '50s film noir environment. Sometimes this AU is done as a homage towards the style, in which the characters are still their canon selves, but the plot or aesthetics are given a noir slant.
Opposite AU ā In which canon personalities and backstories are swapped out with an opposite versions of themselves. Such as a quiet shy character may become loud and outgoing.
Pacific Rim AU āĀ In which the characters are put into the world of Pacific Rim (most often as Jaeger pilots). However, they can easily be a mixture of Jaeger pilots and Jaeger technicians as well. This AU gained popularity due to the concept of Drift Compatibility that made for excellent shipping interactions.
Pen Pal AU ā Is when two characters (who have met in canon) have not met each other in this AU. Sometimes they live in the area and other times they donāt live on the same continent. Usually it is their school that sets them up as pen pals. If not, it is because one of the characters writes a letter to the wrong person/wrong address orĀ they accidentally texts the wrong person.
Penny Dreadful AU āĀ In this AU the characters are put into the British-American horror drama television show Penny Dreadful.Ā These AU stories can be coexistent with Penny DreadfulāsĀ canon, or ignore it entirely and just borrow the plot/character roles.
Percy Jackson AU ā It is also known asĀ Camp Half-Blood AU, which is fromĀ Rick Riordanās Percy Jackson and the Olympians. In this AU, the characters from another fandomĀ are all demigods who are training at Camp Half-Blood. Sometimes the characters follow the same plot and roles of the characters in the canon story.
Peter Pan AU ā This AU borrows the Neverland setting (that is inhabited by mermaids, fairies, Native Americans and pirates) or the Peter Panās story from the novels or films, sometimes both. In which characters from another fandom are in the roles of the canon character in the story instead.
Phantom of the Opera AU āĀ In this AU the main characters within the French writer Gaston Leroux novel TheĀ Phantom of the OperaĀ are replaced with characters from another fandom. Sometimes it follows the same plot and setting, but other times it borrows some ideas from it.
Pirate AU ā When the whole cast are pirates and it is focus on shipboard life, usually it is set in early nineteenth-century Europe. Sometimes itās pirates in outer space.
Podcast AU ā In which a character is a Podcaster, who has gained popularity from their audio episodes, often focused on a particular topic or theme, like the paranormal, and so on. Or theirĀ podcast is presented as a radio show,Ā something similar toĀ Welcome to Night Vale in that aspect. While the rest of the cast either helps the character with their podcast or are their fans of it.
Pokemon AU āĀ In which the characters are put into the world of PokemonĀ (most often as Pokemon trainers).
Prison AU ā In which characters meet for the first time in an prison environment where they have to depend on each other.
Private Detective AUĀ ā When one of the characters becomes a professional detective while the rest of the cast are their clients or the detectiveās contacts in the police department (sometimes they work in other fields, in which the Detective character would call them for favors or help to help solve difficult cases).
Pushing Daisies AU āĀ In this AU the characters are put into the American fantasy mystery comedy-drama television show Pushing Daisies. One of the characters would have the mysterious ability to resurrect the dead through touch and another would be a detective that they would work with to solve murder cases. Sometimes the rest of the cast would be those that have been resurrected by the one with the power.
Queen of the Damned AU ā In which the characters of another fandom are put into theĀ 2002 Australian-American horror film, thatās a loose adaptation of the third novel The Queen of the Damned fromĀ Anne Riceās The Vampire Chronicles series. However, keep in mind that Anne Rice doesnāt allow any fanfiction of her work, in particular her characters are copyrighted. Your best bet is to create a AU story thatās vaguely inspired by it, and to not use her characters at all (not even reference them). This can easily be done when youāre using characters of another fandom instead and your own version of the plot and/or setting.
Radio Jockey AU ā Is also known asĀ Radio Host AU or Radio Personality AU.Ā In which a character hostsĀ a radio talk show where they select the music to be played, or topic of discussion and interact with the audience often via telephone, but may also be online, or via email. The rest of the cast might work with them or are their audience.Ā
Reincarnation AU āĀ In which stories with historical canon setting have the characters become reincarnated into a modern setting and in doing so they are quite similar to their canon selves. Other times the characters or just one of them is reincarnated into another world, which they may or may not retrain their memories from their previous life.
Resurrection AU ā In which a canon character that was canonically dead comes back to life.
Reverse AU ā Also known as Role Reversal AU. Is when the roles (and sometimes backstories) of the characters are swapped, such as the hero is the villain and the villain is now the hero.
Road Trip AU ā In which all the characters or just the one character goes on a cross country road trip, usually visiting all the national parks, landmarks, and even restaurants and bars while on their way to their destination. This sometime happens because of theyāre visiting friends or family for the holidays, vacationing, theyāre on the run, etc.
Robin Hood AU ā In which the characters of a fandom take over the roles in the English folklore or one of the many adaptions/retelling of Robin Hood. The focus is usually on one of the characters becoming Robin Hood,Ā a legendary heroic outlaw whoĀ robs from the rich and gives to the poor. This AU doesnāt necessary have to take place in the same setting though and could be in modern times.
Rockstar AU ā Is also known as Musician AU. In which the main casts is a popular music band or one of them is a solo artists with many groupies which may consist the rest of the characters of a fandom. Or they work within the same industry.
Romeo and Juliet AU ā In this AUĀ the main characters within the William Shakespeare story Romeo and Juliet are replace with characters from another fandom.
Roommate AU ā In which the characters in a fandom are all living together in an apartment or an house. Usually this kind of story is focused on two characters that become roommates.
Royalty AU ā Where one or more characters (who canonically arenāt) are members of a royal family. This usually goes hand in hand with a historical period, featuring a Medieval AU or Regency AU, although some works are set in Modern times or even the Future.
RPG AU - Also known as Gamer AU is when an original character or canon character, live their life as an RPG (role-playing) game or with some form of gaming mechanics.
SCP Containment Breach AU āĀ It is also known as SCP AU or SCP Foundation AU. In which a character of a fandom or the entire cast are test subjects, scientists or anomalous individuals/entities that operate outside the bounds of natural law (referred to as āSCPsā).Ā If left uncontained, they would pose a direct threat to human life and to humanityās perceptions of reality and normalcy. If the characters work for the Foundation, a secretive organization their goal is to either locate and study SPSs to find the means of keeping them contained or act as security. If the characters are SCPs then they would want freedom and would attempt to escape their containment.
Scientist AU ā In which a character is or becomes a Scientist.Ā They may work for government laboratories, environmental organizations, specialist research organizations or universities. They also tend to work with or meet the other characters in the fandom at their job.
Scooby Doo AU ā The characters of another fandom are put into the American animated mystery comedy-drama franchise, which can coexists with the canon or theyāre their own version of the mystery gang.
Screw Yourself AU ā Is also known as Selfcest AU. It is a kink trope of an AU wherein a character either clones them self (or someone else does it), thereās a mirror image of them,Ā aĀ doppelgƤnger, travels to another universe, or another time and become intimate with themselves. Their other self could also be a gender flipped version.Ā
Seer AU ā It is also known as Oracle AU or Soothsayer AU. In which one the characters is born with or gains the power toĀ foretell the future (or has precognition abilities).
Silent Hill AU ā ItĀ puts the characters of another fandom into the video game world of Silent Hill. Sometimes the AU story coexistent with Silent Hill canon, or other times ignores it entirely, in which the writer makes their own version.
Single Parent AU ā In which a character has a child, adopts, or becomes a parent in someway and raises them on their own.Ā
Sleepy Hollow AU āĀ In this AU it places characters from another fandom into the roles and/or uses the plot based on the gothic story, The Legend of Sleepy HollowĀ by American author Washington Irving. Some may even use the 1999 film adaption of Sleepy Hollow by Tim Burton or the 2013 crime/horror television series, Sleepy Hollow.
Sky High AU ā Is an AU that puts the characters of another fandom into the setting and plot ofĀ a 2005 American superhero comedy film, Sky High,Ā whichĀ is about anĀ airborne private school for teenage superheroes.
Soulmates AU ā Is whenĀ two (or more) characters are fated to be together, sometimes through multiple livesĀ and/or into theĀ afterlife. Sometimes but not always, the pairingĀ might have a characteristic that helps them to find each other, such as identical or complementary birthmarks, tattoos, scars, or a string-of-fate thatās tied to their other half which becomes thicker and shorter the closer they get to them. Some stories only need a character to hear, see or touch their soulmate to know who they are.
Space AU ā Where a fandom that is canonically set on Earth becomes set in outer space.
Spy AUĀ ā Also known as Secret Agent AU or Espionage AU. The whole cast is turned into spies, sometimes they work for the same organization, government or they operate independently. Other times the AU is focused on only one or two characters that are the spies.Ā
Star Trek AU āĀ In which the characters of another fandom are put into the American franchise based on the science fiction television series created by Gene Roddenberry.
Star Wars AU ā In which characters of another fandom are put into the American epic space-opera.
Steampunk AU ā In which a story is turned into a futuristic/sci-fi version of a 19th Century, usually Victorian or Edwardian containing clocks, gears, springs, steam power, analog computers, airships, etc.Ā
Stranger Things AU ā Is an AU, in which characters of a fandom are placed into the plot and settling of American science fiction-horror show Stranger Things.
Street Racing AU ā In which the AU story focuses onĀ unsanctioned and illegal form of auto racing that occurs on a public road. The characters are either drivers/racers, mechanics, police/undercover cop, flagger, and so on.
Sucker Punch AU ā In which the characters are put into the plot or setting of theĀ 2011 American psychological fantasy action film Sucker Punch.
Sugar Daddy AU ā Is also known as Sugar Mama AU. Is an AU where a character is a Sugar Daddy that offers support (typically financial and material) to a younger companion (which is known as a Sugar Baby) in exchange for being in the relationship (it doesnāt have to be sexual either).
Superpowers AU ā In which the characters have superpowers and are either heroes and/or villains.Ā
Sword and Sorcery AU ā Is a subgenre of fantasy characterized by sword-wielding heroes engaged in exciting and violent adventures. Most often there is an element of romanceĀ in this AU, as well as the elements ofĀ magic and the supernatural. Unlike works of high fantasy, the tales, though dramatic, focus mainly on personal battles rather than world-endangering matters. Examples of this genre that this type of AUs uses or borrows from areĀ Robert E. Howardās Conan the Barbarian, Rob J. Hayesā The Ties That Bind, Roy Thomasā Red Sonja, Karl Edward Wagnerās The Book of Kane, Gregory WidenāsĀ Highlander, Andre Nortonās The Beast Master, and so on.
Tarzan AU āĀ In this AU itās based on the novel or filmĀ Tarzan. The canon characters are replaced with others from another fandom to explore the story with them in the roles instead.
Tattoo Parlor AU ā In which the characters either work there as tattoo artists or are clients.Ā
Telepathy AU ā Is also known as Mind Reader AU. In which one of the characters is born with or gains the ability to communicate with thoughts or ideas (or even just read minds) of other characters.
The Addams Family AU ā Is an AU in which the characters are placed into the plot and setting of theĀ 1991 American supernatural black comedy filmĀ The Addams Family.
The Craft ā In this AU the characters are put into the world or plot of theĀ 1996 American supernatural horror film, The Craft.Ā
The Fifth Element AU ā In which the characters are put into the world and/plot of theĀ 1997 English-language French science-fiction action film, The Fifth Element.
The Last of Us AU ā In which the characters are put into the world or plot of theĀ action-adventure survival horror video game, The Last of Us.
The Lost Boys AU āĀ In this AU the characters of another fandom are place into the plot and setting of aĀ fictional beach town called "Santa Carlaā from theĀ 1987 American horror comedy film The Lost Boys.
The Matrix AU ā In which the characters are put into the plot and setting of theĀ 1999 science fiction action film, The Matrix.
The Mummy AU āĀ In this AU the characters of another fandom are placed into the roles, plot and setting of the 1999 American action horror film The Mummy.
The Shape of Water AU ā Is an AU that places characters of another fandom intoĀ Guillermo del Toroās 2017 American romantic dark fantasy film, The Shape of Water. This AU may follow the same plot and setting and other times it only borrows a couple of elements from the film.
The Terminator AU ā Is an AU where the characters from another fandom are placed into the plot and setting of James Cameronās 1984 American science fiction film, The Terminator.
The Wizard of Oz AU ā In which characters of another fandom are put into the story of the 1939 American musical fantasy film, The Wizard of Oz.Ā Ā
Thir13en Ghosts AU ā It is also known as 13 Ghosts AU. In which the character of another fandom are placed into the 2001 Canadian-American supernatural horror film, Thirteen Ghosts.
Time TravelerĀ AU ā Is when a characterĀ from the future travels to the past for whatever reason (to study history, criminal punishment, to fix or change an event, etc.) or because they lost control of their power/magic (or the time machine malfunction). They meet another character from that time period and they usually fall in love with each other.Ā
Titanic AU ā Is an AU where characters from another fandom are placed into the setting and plot ofĀ James Cameronās Titanic,Ā a 1997 American epic romance and disaster film.
Tour Guide/Tourist AU ā In which one character or a group of them are on vacation and usually this sets up a pairing between the tourist and the tour guide.Ā
Treasure Hunter AU ā In thisĀ AU the characters are treasure hunters, tomb raiders, paleontologists and archaeologists. Basically theyāre people that search for ancient treasures (like the Ark of the Covenant, Blackbeardās Treasure and the Llywelynās coronet, etc. ) and forgotten, lost and even legendary places, and undercover myths and legends, as well as how they were made. Related AUs to this is Tomb Raider AU, Indiana Jones AU, Uncharted AU and National Treasure AU.
Tremors AU ā In which the characters are put into the 1990 American monster comedy film, Tremors. Or it borrow the idea of the subterranean worm-like creatures known as Graboids.
Tron AU āĀ In this AU, the characters from another fandomĀ are placedĀ in the Grid, a digital world contained within a network of computers. The characters could be Users;Ā regular human beings sent into the grid through the SHV 20905Ā or they could be programs created in the world.
Tru Calling AU ā Is an AU that puts the character of another fandom into the plot of the American television supernatural drama series. If not, they usually borrow the idea ofĀ the character having the power to relive their day in order to prevent the death of whoever has already died.
Tsundere AU āĀ Is when a character of a fandom is turned into a Tsundere, which is a type of character who is initiallyĀ cold (and sometimes even hostile) before gradually showing a warmer, friendlier side over time.
Underworld AU ā In which the characters are put into the world or plot of theĀ 2003 AmericanĀ action horror film, Underworld. Sometimes these AUs stories coexist with the canon of the films and other times they only borrow elements from it.
Urban Fantasy AU ā Is sometimes called Modern Fantasy AU. In which the canon story of the fandom has been replaced with an urban setting. This AU is usually set primarily in the real world and contain aspects of fantasy, such as the discovery of earthbound mythological creatures, coexistence or conflict between humans and paranormal beings, and other changes to city life. Some of the most famous examples of this kind of genre that these AU stories use or borrow from are Neil Gaimanās American Gods,Ā Eoin Colferās Artemis Fowl,Ā Jim ButcherāsĀ The Dresden Files,Ā Laurell K. Hamiltonās Anita Blake, Melissa Marrās Wicked Lovely, Caitlin Kittredgeās Witchblade, Chris Robersonās iZombie, and so on.
Vampire/Werewolf AU ā In which vampires and werewolves exist (in the case of canons that donāt have them) or a character is recast as a vampire or werewolf. However, these kind of AUs donāt necessarily have to contain both species as some tend to focus on only one of them.
Van Helsing AU ā It is also known as Dracula AU, which is based on Bram StokerāsĀ 1897 Gothic horror novel, Dracula. This AU doesnāt have to follow the novel, as some prefer to use other stories based on it, such as the 2004 American horror film, Van Helsing. Usually one of the characters takes on the role of a vampire hunter and the other as their archenemy, Count Dracula. The other characters are usually cast as fellow hunters, vampires, monsters or regular civilian humans.
Venom AU ā In this AU the characters are put into the world and/or plot of theĀ 2018 American superhero film based on the Marvel Comics character of the same name.Ā If not, usually a character bonds with an alien symbiote (which doesnāt have to be Venom).
Veterinarian AU ā In which a canon or non-canon character is a Veterinarian. They usually meet or work with the rest of the cast at their job at the clinic or hospital.Ā Usually this happens with a pairing, in which one is the Veterinarian and the other is their client, who brings in their beloved pet as theirĀ patient.
Victorian AU ā In which characters from a modern or future-set story are relocate to a stereotypical Victorian romanticism era.
Vigilante AU ā In this AU, the character goes down the path of a vigilante.Ā This usually happens when something goes wrong, like the justice system failed them. So they decided to take the law into their own hands and unleash their own brand of righteous punishment and retribution upon societyās miscreants and wrongdoers.Ā Some examples of this type of AU that it might borrow from is MarvelāsĀ The Punisher franchise,Ā Eli Rothās 1974 filmĀ Death Wish,Ā Neil JordanāsĀ The Brave One, Antoine FuquaāsĀ The Equalizer, Park Chan-wookāsĀ Lady Vengeance, Alex ProyasāĀ The Crow, Troy DuffyāsĀ The Boondock Saints,Ā and so on.
Watchmen AU ā In which the characters are put into the plot and/or setting of theĀ American superhero comic book Watchmen. This AU can also apply toĀ the 2009 American neo-noir superhero film Watchmen.
Wayward Pines AU ā In which the characters are put into the world of theĀ American mystery, science fiction television series based on the Wayward Pines novels by Blake Crouch.
Wedding Planner AU ā In this AU, one of the characters is a very successful Wedding Planner and isĀ hired to plan the wedding of another character. The characters may or may not be paired together, but usually the rest of the cast are friends of the wedding planner, co-workers or friends of the couple that are getting married.
West Side Story AU ā The characters of another fandom are put into the 1961 film adaptation of the same-titled musical play about two lovers heavily entangled in two rival gangs.
Western AU ā In which the characters are transplanted into the āOld Westā; or sometimes, especially in science fiction stories a Space Western equivalent, which may involve a western-type plot without horses and cattle ranches.
Westworld AU ā The characters of a fandom are placed inĀ Westworld, a fictional, technologically advanced Wild-West-themed amusement park populated by android āhostsā. The park caters to high-paying āguestsā who may indulge their wildest fantasies within the park without fear of retaliation from the hosts, who are prevented by their programming from harming humans. There are five otherĀ theme parks, which sometimes these AU stories may explored with the characters.
Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory AUĀ ā In this AU the characters of another original material are put into the plot and/or setting of theĀ 1971 American musical fantasy family film. It is an adaptation of the 1964 novel Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl.
Witch AU ā In which one or more characters are witches, who haveĀ magicalĀ abilities, skills and familiars.
Wonderland AU ā In which the story and the characters are turned into their own version of Alice in Wonderland.
X-Men AU ā In this AU, it depicts a world in which a small proportion of people are mutants, who are born with superhuman abilities activated by the āX-Geneā. The characters of another fandom sometimesĀ coexistent withĀ X-Men canon (be it the comics, cartoons, or films), or ignore it entirely. But they are often portrayed as students, staff or alumni of Xavier Institute for Higher Learning, formerly Xavierās Academy for Gifted Youngsters.
Yandere AU ā Is when a character of a fandom is turned into a Yandere, which is a type of character who is initially very loving and gentle to another character, but their devotion to them becomes destructive in nature, often through manipulation, violence and/or brutality.Ā
Youtube AU ā Also known as Youtuber AU. In which a character is aĀ YouTube celebrity, who has gained popularity from their videos on the website (or something equivalent to the video-sharing website). Be it from playing video games, trying or creating interesting food recipes, doing film reviews, vlogging about their travels, tutorials of either makeup, hairstyles, fashion and whatnot. The rest of the cast tend to be fellow Youtubers or fans of their content.
Zenon:Ā Girl of the 21st CenturyĀ AU ā In which the characters are put into theĀ 1999 Disney Channel Original Movie, which is based on the book Zenon: Girl of the 21st Century written by Marilyn Sadler and Roger Bollen.
Zombie Apocalypse AU ā Also known as Zombie AU. In which stories that donāt contain an zombie apocalypse have it happen to them.
Note: ThisĀ is as close to complete as I can possibly get with this list of AUs. So I wonāt be updating this any longer.Ā
Keep in mind that sometimes an AU story is combine with others elements. For example, instead of the very common AU story about the characters attending a regular high school in modern times, it can be a magical school or a superhero school (similar to the film Sky High or the X-Men comics). It might even take place in a futuristic world or historical time. Sometimes AUs stories may focus on an OC (Original Character), Self-insert or Reader-insert and not just canon characters of a fandom.
For a simpler version of this list: Masterlist of Alternate Universes
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