Jamie & Joy

What's an activity that everyone seems to like but you don't get?

For us, it's music festivals. The math just doesn't add up: you pay hundreds of dollars to stand in a dusty field, miles away from a stage where your favorite artist looks like a literal ant, all while battling dehydration and porta-potties. Most people seem to find the "vibes" and the shared energy life-changing, but we'd much rather listen to the studio album with noise-canceling headphones.

Have you ever looked at your original character (OC) and wondered what they would look like if they lived in a different universe? Maybe as a high-octane Friday Night Funkin’ mod, a simplified Papa Louie chef, or a sleek SEGA mascot? One of the best ways to test the strength of your character’s design is to see if they remain recognizable even when their entire world changes.

We, the Gamer Twins, love style-swapping our FNF OC, Sarah Sparkles, into all kinds of remix variants inspired by FNF mods (B-Sides, Neo, Starcatcher, Crystal, Rose-Tinted, and more!). Sarah Sparkles is the energetic lead singer of the girl band Sarah and the Sparkletones in our fan mod Vs. Sarah (which is currently a work in progress). Her base design, the "core identity" that stays no matter what style we put her in, is a fair-skinned teenage girl with a sunny, motivated, chipper personality, dirty blonde hair usually worn in a high ponytail, big expressive brown eyes and a big smile, a signature pink headset with a microphone (her must-keep accessory), pink as her main theme color (but flexible for remixes), a schoolgirl uniform, and always upbeat, enthusiastic, and ready to perform. We've spent a lot of time "remixing" Sarah into dozens of different aesthetics, and we've learned that a successful style swap isn't just about changing colors—it’s about understanding the DNA of a style.

Here are a few examples of our different remixed versions of Sarah, plus her original base design:

(From top to bottom: Original design, Neo, B-Sides, Starcatcher, B3 Remixed, Rose-Tinted, Genderswap, Monday Dusk Monolith, Mermaid, Angel, Ghost, Papa Louie)

(And yes, the headset always stays—even if we have to glue antennae or a flower on it. Priorities!)

Many artists struggle with style swaps or AU redesigns: you change the colors, outfit, or theme to fit a new aesthetic…but suddenly the character doesn’t feel like the same person anymore. They end up looking like a completely different OC!

In this tutorial, we're going to show you how to "deconstruct" a style and "reconstruct" your character within it. We’ll look at how to keep your OC's soul intact while playing with line weights, color theory, and shape language. This works great for any character—FNF OCs, your own creations, fandom redesigns, genderbends, whatever! Whether you’re intermediate and love mod concepts or just want to experiment with AUs without losing the soul of your character, this process has helped us build a whole remix series.

What you’ll need:

An existing OC with a "base" design.

A basic understanding of layers and coloring.

A sense of curiosity!

Let’s dive in and see how many versions of your character are waiting to be discovered.

Step 1: Finding the "Anchor" (Your Base Design) and Identifying Core Identity Traits

Before you can change your character's world, you have to know exactly who they are, no matter the outfit, colors, or theme. Every character has an anchor—a set of three to five visual traits that are so iconic that the character wouldn't be "them" without them.

Think of it like this: If you turned your character into a silhouette, would people still know who it is?

Look at your OC and pick out the "non-negotiables", the core DNA that helps them stay consistent across every variant. If you change too many of these, the character stops feeling like the same person. For Sarah Sparkles, here's how we define her core identity traits (based on her base design and what we've kept sacred through dozens of remixes):

Face and Proportions — Fair skin, teenage girl build, big expressive brown eyes, round/cute facial features, and that signature big cheerful smile. Her face is always chipper and energetic—no matter if she's in space gear or a princess dress, the expression and proportions scream "Sarah."

Hair Foundation — Dirty blonde (or very close) base color in most cases, with flexible but recognizable styling: usually a high ponytail, twintails, or short with accents (like a small bun). We can shorten it (Rose-Tinted, Crystal) or add volume, but we avoid drastic cuts or shapes that hide the ponytail silhouette entirely.

Personality Vibe in Art — Upbeat, motivated, sunny, courageous. This shows through dynamic poses (performing, jumping, waving), enthusiastic expressions, and body language that's full of energy. Even in calmer variants, she never looks brooding or serious.

The Pink Headset with Microphone — This is her signature accessory! It's in every single variant we've drawn. We modify it to fit the theme (add antennae for Starcatcher, a flower for Rose-Tinted, a crystal butterfly for Crystal), but we never remove it or replace it completely. It's what ties her back to her singer/lead performer role.

In B-Sides, her goes brown, her outfit turns mint green, but her headset stays (with mic), and her face is identical, so she's still instantly Sarah. In Starcatcher, she is wearing a space cadet outfit, has antennae on her headset, her hair is styled in twintails with pink scrunchies, her headset modified but present, and her proportions and smile are unchanged. In Rose-Tinted, she has shorter hair, wears a 1950s sock hop skirt, a flower on her headset, and sunglasses, but her eyes are visible, her smile is big, and the headset still there. In Crystal, she wears a princess dress, has short hair with a bun, a tiara, and a crystal butterfly on her headset. The headset is adapted, but her face and energy are preserved.

You can do this for your own OC with a few easy steps.

Pull up your base/reference sheet or favorite main drawing.

Draw your character in their simplest, most "standard" form. Label their key features. By identifying these now, you give yourself a "safety net." No matter how crazy the colors get in a Neo style or how weird the proportions get in a Papa Louie style, as long as you keep these anchors, your audience will always recognize your OC.

Make a short bullet list (3–6 items max) of the absolute must-keeps. What one accessory or feature do fans always recognize? What face shape/eye color/expression defines their mood? What silhouette or body language represents their personality the most? Any color motifs that are flexible but anchor them?

Be ruthless—only include things that, if changed, would make it feel like a different character.

Write it down or annotate directly on a reference image (we often add text labels in Procreate/Photoshop for our own use).

Once you have this list, you're armed! Every change you make in later steps should be checked against it: "Does this still let the core traits shine?" This step is simple but powerful—it prevents "style swap gone wrong" where the redesign feels disconnected.

Pro-Tip: If you’re struggling to find an anchor, try changing their hair color. If they suddenly look like a completely different person, then that hair color is one of your anchors!

Step 2: Decoding the "Style DNA"

Now that you've locked in the core identity traits, it's time to pick what you're remixing into—this is where the fun experimentation starts!

Every art style has a "DNA"—a set of unspoken rules that make it look consistent. If you want your OC to fit into a specific world, you have to learn its laws before you break them!

Pick a style you love and ask yourself these four questions:

Line Weight: Are the lines thick and bold (like a sticker), or thin and sketchy?

Proportions: Are the heads huge and the bodies tiny (chibi)? Or are the limbs long and "noodly"?

Color Palette: Does the style use natural colors, or is it limited to bright neons and high-contrast shadows?

Eyes and Face: Are the eyes simple dots, or do they have complex shines and multiple colors?

The key here is to select a clear, defined style or theme first, then gather quick references so your changes feel intentional and cohesive. Don't just randomly swap colors; base the remix on something specific (like an FNF mod aesthetic, art challenge, era, mood, or crossover vibe). This gives your variant direction and makes it easier to decide what to adapt without accidentally erasing the character's "DNA."

Here is our process for our Sarah Sparkles variants:

First, we pick the inspiration. We usually draw from FNF mod concepts or remix ideas we've brainstormed (e.g., "What if Sarah was in a B-Sides week?" or "Cosmic space cadet for a dream pop/new wave mod?"). It could be anything: retro 1950s sock hop, gem princess fairy tale, angel aesthetic, mermaid AU, etc. The more specific the theme, the easier it is to plan changes.

Next, we do some quick research. We look at existing mod arts, reference images, or color palettes for that style. For example:

B-Sides: Nightcore/remix energy - mint green and brown hair tones (simple color flip for a "flipped" feel).

Starcatcher: Cosmic/space cadet and alien-human band mix, with starry effects, antennae, and space suits.

Rose-Tinted: 1950s sock hop/retro pink, with polka dots, shorter hair, flowers, and sunglasses.

Crystal: Diamond princess fairy tale, with glass slippers, tiara, crystal gems, elegant Disney-inspired dress.

We don't over-research—just grab two to four key visuals (colors, motifs, clothing silhouettes) that define the vibe. An important rule for us is to always ask "How can this theme enhance Sarah without breaking her core traits?" Colors/outfit/hair can shift dramatically, but the headset stays (modified to fit: antennae for space, flower for retro, crystal butterfly for princess), the facial expressions remain chipper and recognizable, and the sunny, motivated personality influences pose and details.

Here's how you can enhance your OC with a different theme without breaking their core traits:

Decide on one specific style/theme for this variant (e.g., cyberpunk, steampunk, holiday festive, villain AU—keep it focused!).

Jot down 3–5 defining elements of that style (main colors, key motifs, typical outfits/silhouettes, mood).

Sketch a tiny mood note or thumbnail: "What would [your OC] look like if dropped into this world?"

Cross-check against your core traits list from Step 1: Flag anything that might conflict (e.g., if your OC has a signature hat, decide how to adapt it instead of ditching it).

This step keeps your redesigns purposeful and exciting. It's not random changes, it's storytelling through style! You aren't just drawing your character "badly" or "differently"—you are translating them into a new language.

Step 3: Plan Changes Layer by Layer

With your core traits locked in and a clear theme chosen, now break the redesign down into manageable layers. Think of your character like an onion: peel and adapt one layer at a time, always checking back against the "DNA" list to ensure recognizability.

We use this layered approach for every Sarah Sparkles variant:

Color Palette Shift — Start here because color is the quickest, biggest mood-changer. Swap the dominant pink for the theme's main colors, but keep pink accents where possible (e.g., scrunchies, details, or subtle highlights) to anchor her identity. Examples include:

B-Sides: Mint green dominant and brown hair for Nightcore flip (pink mic/headset stays as a nod).

Starcatcher: Cosmic purples/blues with starry glows and pink scrunchies.

Rose-Tinted: Warm retro pinks/reds with polka dots.

Crystal: Diamond blues/whites with shimmering gems and pink ribbon accents.

Outfit Redesign — Adapt clothing to fit the theme's silhouette and vibe, but try to echo the original schoolgirl shape (e.g., skirt + top) if it works. Keep proportions similar (teen build, not too bulky). Examples include:

Neo: Cheerleader skirt and pompoms (replaces mic in hand for dance energy).

Rose-Tinted: Polka-dot poodle skirt with a collared shirt and bow.

Crystal: Flowy princess gown with glass slippers.

Starcatcher: Space cadet cropped jacket and boots.

Hair and Head Shape Tweaks — Modify length/style/color slightly, but preserve the foundation (ponytail/twintails silhouette, dirty blonde base when possible). Avoid total overhauls—shorten for retro, add volume for space. Examples include:

Rose-Tinted: Shorter hair with flower.

Crystal: Short bun with tiara.

Starcatcher: Twintails with pink scrunchies.

B-Sides: Brown hair flip, same ponytail shape.

Signature Accessory Adaptation — The headset/mic is sacred—tweak it to match the theme instead of removing it. This is the biggest "anchor" trick! Examples include:

Starcatcher: Add antennae or starry attachments.

Rose-Tinted: Flower decoration with sunglasses.

Crystal: Crystal butterfly wings on the sides.

Pose, Expression, and Effects — Final layer: Keep energy upbeat/cheerful. Add thematic flair (stars, crystals, glows) without overwhelming.

Poses: Performing, jumping, confident—never static/brooding.

Effects: Sparkles for Crystal, neon glow for Neo, stars for Starcatcher.

Headset modified but present

Big smile, expressive eyes, and chipper vibe

Pink accents survive

Hair silhouette similar

Common Pitfalls to Avoid (and How We Fix Them):

Over-changing hair - Makes silhouette unrecognizable (solution: Keep ponytail base shape).

Ditching the headset - Loses performer identity (solution: Always adapt it).

Too many new elements - Overpowers core (solution: Limit to 3–4 big changes max).

Now let's use this approach to change your OC's layers. Here are four helpful steps:

Create a quick checklist or layered sketch: Base, Colors, Outfit, Hair/Accessories, Pose/Effects.

For each layer, note one change and how it ties back to core traits.

Do a rough thumbnail sketch for the variant—pause and ask: "Does this still look like my OC?"

If no, tweak the conflicting layer.

This methodical layering makes redesigns feel controlled and creative instead of chaotic. Once planned, you're ready to draw confidently!

Step 4: Draw and Refine

You've planned everything—now bring it to life on the canvas! This step turns your layered plan into a finished piece while double-checking that the core identity shines through.

With your core traits identified, theme researched, and changes mapped layer by layer, it's time to actually draw. We approach this in phases so we can catch issues early and keep adjustments minimal.

Our Drawing and Refining Workflow for Sarah Variants:

Rough Sketch (Base First):

Start with the unchanged core from our reference: Draw Sarah's face, proportions, big expressive eyes, cheerful smile, and ponytail/twintails silhouette exactly as in the base design.

Add the headset/mic right away in its usual position—even if you're planning to modify it later. This anchors everything.

Use light lines so it's easy to adjust.

Pro tip: Sketch the pose first (dynamic, upbeat—jumping, performing, waving) to lock in the energetic personality vibe.

Apply Planned Changes Layer by Layer: Follow your Step 3 checklist in order:

Colors: Block in the new palette roughly (e.g., mint green fill for B-Sides, cosmic purples for Starcatcher).

Outfit: Sketch the new clothing over the base silhouette (e.g., cheer skirt for Neo, poodle skirt for Rose-Tinted). Keep body proportions consistent.

Hair tweaks: Adjust length/volume but preserve the overall shape (e.g., shorten for Rose-Tinted, add scrunchies for Starcatcher).

Accessory mods: Tweak the headset last in this phase (add antennae, flower, crystal butterfly, etc.).

Effects/flair: Add thematic details sparingly (stars, glows, sparkles, polka dots) after the main elements are down.

Clean Lineart and Base Colors:

Ink over the rough sketch with clean, confident lines (We use brushes that match our usual style—smooth for cute/chibi vibes).

Fill base colors, keeping any surviving pink accents (scrunchies, ribbon details, mic color) to tie back to the original.

Test recognizability here: Step back (or flip the canvas horizontally) and ask, "Does this still scream Sarah at first glance?"

Shading, Details, and Polish

Add shading that fits the theme.

Refine expressions; exaggerate the big smile and bright eyes to maintain chipper energy.

Add small personality touches (e.g., sparkles in eyes, confident tilt of head).

Final effects: Subtle glows, particles, or patterns only after everything else is solid.

Final Identity Check and Tweaks:

Compare side-by-side with the base Sarah (We open the original file next to the new one).

Quick checklist:

Headset present and adapted?

Face/proportions/expression unchanged?

Hair foundation recognizable?

Personality vibe upbeat?

Pink accents or nods surviving? (bonus)

If anything feels "off," revert or tweak that layer only; don't overhaul the whole thing.

Rough sketch (base face, headset, pose)

Mid-stage (colors, outfit rough-in)

Clean lineart and base colors

Final polished version

Tools and Tips We Use:

Procreate/Clip Studio/Photoshop - layers are your friend! Keep core traits on locked layers so you can hide/show them for comparison.

Flip canvas often to spot proportion issues.

Zoom out frequently - small details can distract from overall recognizability.

Save versions (e.g., "Sarah_RoseTinted_v1_rough", "v2_colors") so you can rollback easily.

Common Fixes We Make at This Stage:

Hair looks too different? Undo and soften the change.

Outfit overpowers face? Reduce detail or contrast on clothing.

Mood feels flat? Amp up the smile, add dynamic pose lines or sparkles.

Lineart isn't just a container for color; it's a personality trait! The thickness, taper, and color of your lines tell the viewer exactly what kind of world your character lives in.

1. Line Weight (Thickness)

The "Game" Look (FNF/Papa Louie): Use a consistent, medium-to-thick brush. This makes the character feel solid and "clickable," like a sprite. Don't worry too much about thin tapers at the ends of hair; keep it chunky!

The "Anime/Modern" Look: Use a pressure-sensitive brush. Lines should be thick where shadows meet and paper-thin at the tips of hair or fingers. This adds elegance and movement.

2. Line Color (Colored vs. Black)

Hard Black Outlines: Give a classic comic or early 2000s flash-game vibe. It makes the character "pop" off the background.

Colored Outlines: Use a darker version of the fill color (e.g., dark maroon lines for pink hair). This makes the character look softer and more "integrated" into their environment, common in styles like Animal Jam or Sonic.

3. The "Inner" vs. "Outer" Line

A pro trick for style-swapping is the Sticker Effect.

The Rule: Use a very thick line for the silhouette (the outside edge) and much thinner lines for the details inside (clothes, eyes, etc.). This is a staple of the Friday Night Funkin' aesthetic!

The "Why": Thick lines simplify a character, making them easier to read at a distance. Thin lines allow for more detail. Choosing the right one helps your OC "fit in" with the official cast of the style you're mimicking.

By the end of this step, you should have a finished variant that feels fresh and thematic...but anyone familiar with your OC goes, "Oh, it's you OC in [this style] - cool!"

Step 5: Examples Showcase and the Final Lineup

Proof is in the pixels! This section puts everything together by showing real results from the process. We'll use our own finished variants as the stars here; nothing beats seeing the "before and after" to prove the method works.

You've identified the core, chosen a theme, planned layers, and drawn/refined. Now showcase 4–6 variants side-by-side with the base Sarah to demonstrate how the identity stays intact across wildly different styles. This is the "wow" part that makes the tutorial memorable and helps readers visualize applying it to their own OCs.

How to Structure This Section:

Use a grid or carousel of panels: Base Sarah on the left (or top), then variants on the right/bottom.

For each example: Short caption explaining key changes + preserved traits.

Include arrows/labels pointing to anchors (headset, smile, ponytail shape, energy pose, pink accents).

Aim for variety: Simple swap (B-Sides), moderate (Neo/Rose-Tinted), elaborate (Starcatcher/Crystal).

Examples from Our Series:

Base Sarah Sparkles (anchor)

Original: Fair skin, dirty blonde ponytail, pink headset/mic, schoolgirl outfit, big smile, energetic pose.

B-Sides Sarah (simple color flip remix)

Changes: Brown hair, mint green outfit dominant.

Preserved: Headset unchanged (pink mic), same ponytail shape, identical face/expressions, upbeat vibe.

Caption: "Nightcore B-Sides vibe—minimal changes, but instantly recognizable as Sarah!"

Neo Sarah (cheerleader energy)

Changes: Cheer skirt + pompoms, perhaps brighter colors.

Preserved: Headset present, big eyes/smile, ponytail, performer pose.

Caption: "Neo cheerleader twist; headset stays, energy amps up!"

Rose-Tinted Sarah (retro 1950s sock hop)

Changes: Shorter hair, polka-dot poodle skirt, flower on headset, sunglasses.

Preserved: Big cheerful smile, expressive eyes, headset adapted but there, pink accents, sunny personality.

Caption: "1950s retro sock hop; shorter hair + flower, but the core performer spirit shines!"

Starcatcher Sarah (cosmic space cadet)

Changes: Twintails + pink scrunchies, space outfit, antennae on headset, starry effects.

Preserved: Headset modified (antennae added), face/proportions, energetic pose, pink details.

Caption: "Cosmic Starcatcher; space flair with antennae upgrade, but still 100% Sarah!"

Crystal Sarah (gem princess fairy tale)

Changes: Short bun + tiara, elegant dress, crystal butterfly on headset, shimmering gems.

Preserved: Headset adapted, big smile/eyes, chipper vibe, subtle pink ribbons.

Caption: "Diamond princess elegance; tiara + crystals, but headset and sunny expression tie it back!"

Why This Works:

Readers see the process in action, not theory.

Highlights how small anchors (especially the headset) make big changes feel cohesive.

Encourages them: "If I can turn schoolgirl Sarah into a space alien and still have it be her, you can remix your OC too!"

Tips for Your Panels:

Keep captions short (1–2 sentences).

Use bold for preserved traits.

If space is tight, do a 2x3 grid or collage one big image with labels.

The best way to see if your style swap was successful is to put all your versions in a row. This is your "Lineup," and it’s the ultimate test of your anchors.

The "Squint Test":

Look at your lineup and squint your eyes so the details blur.

Do they all still feel like the same character?

Does the Neo version feel "electric" compared to the Base version?

Does the B-Side version feel like a "remix"?

Final Checklist:

Consistency: Did you keep the anchors in every single one?

DNA: Does the Sonic version actually look like it could run alongside the Blue Blur? Does the FNF version look like a functional game sprite?

Polish: Did you remember to adjust the lineart thickness for each specific style?

By learning how to swap styles, you aren't just "copying" other games—you are training your brain to understand Art Direction. You now have the power to take your OC on an adventure through any world, from a 90s cartoon to a modern rhythm game.

To sum up, here are all the steps you need to draw your OC in multiple styles without losing what makes them them:

Identify Core Identity Traits — Lock in the non-negotiables (face, expressions, signature accessory like Sarah's headset, personality vibe, hair foundation).

Choose a Style/Theme and Research — Pick one clear inspiration and gather quick refs for colors, motifs, and mood.

Plan Changes Layer by Layer — Colors, Outfit, Hair/Accessories, Pose/Effects; always checking against core traits.

Draw and Refine — Start with the unchanged core, apply changes methodically, polish, and do a final identity check.

Showcase and Iterate — Compare before/afters, celebrate what worked, and use the method again for new variants!

The magic happens because of those anchors: For Sarah Sparkles, the pink headset is the unbreakable thread that ties every remix back to her performer identity, no matter if she's a cosmic space cadet, retro sock-hop girl, diamond princess, or minty Nightcore flip. Add in her big cheerful smile, expressive eyes, upbeat poses, and subtle pink nods, and she stays instantly recognizable even in wildly different aesthetics.

Style swaps and AUs are super fun, but they can feel frustrating when the redesign starts looking like a stranger. By starting with the core "DNA" and adapting everything else around it, you get creative freedom without sacrificing consistency. It's how we've built an entire Sarah Sparkles remix series that still feels like one cohesive character. And the best part? This works for any OC; FNF mods, your original characters, genderbends, holiday versions, villain AUs, you name it!

Quick Final Tips for Success:

Keep a "core traits reference sheet" handy (We have one saved in our files with annotated base Sarah).

Test recognizability: Show the variant to a friend (or yourself after a break) and ask, "Who is this?" If they say your OC's name, success!

Start small: Try a simple color swap first (like B-Sides) before going elaborate (like Crystal or Starcatcher).

Experiment fearlessly—worst case, you learn what not to change next time.

Have fun! The more you enjoy the theme, the better the result tends to be.

Joy Williams (@JoyNova13) in PLP #papalouiepals

Happy Easter! In honor of this special day, we're giving our fellow Pokémon fans an extra-special treat: A Pokéball-styled egg with a cute little Pikachu inside! We originally planned to draw a regular Easter egg with a little bunny inside, but we left that to someone else. Considering our love for video games, we just couldn't pass up this opportunity.

Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice.

Growing up, my brother Jamie and I were taught that screaming is reserved for genuine emergencies—like a dog attack, an abduction attempt, or a house fire. We learned early on that expressing excitement or frustration can be done without raising our voices to an extreme level. However, it seems that not everyone has had the same guidance. During our time on the internet, we've encountered many individuals—primarily girls, but some boys too—who express their excitement through loud screams, regardless of their age.

While we understand that excitement can be overwhelming, the sheer volume of their reactions often leaves us feeling frustrated. It can be jarring to witness someone shriek over what seems like a trivial matter, and it’s hard not to roll our eyes at such displays. We recognize that not all fans behave this way, but the prevalence of this kind of reaction, especially on social media, can feel inescapable.

Screaming fangirls have been a part of pop culture for decades, from the days of Frank Sinatra to Elvis Presley and the Beatles. However, the scope of what prompts these outbursts has expanded significantly. Nowadays, fans scream not just over music stars but also over movies, TV shows, books, comics, video games, and even mundane social media posts. The list goes on, and it can be overwhelming to witness.

While we appreciate the joy that fandoms bring, the volume of these reactions can be excessive. It’s not just loud; it can also come across as immature or undignified. We often wonder why such extreme expressions of excitement are necessary.

We understand that some fans may feel an intense rush of emotions when they see their favorite idol in person, discover new fanart, or hear a new song. It’s natural to feel elated about these moments. However, there are healthier ways to express that excitement without resorting to screaming.

Jamie and I can relate to being passionate about our interests, but we choose to express our enthusiasm in a more measured way. We often find ourselves scrolling through social media, only to be startled by sudden outbursts of excitement from others. It can be jarring and even lead to feelings of anxiety or irritation.

We want to clarify that our intention is not to insult anyone or cause offense. We simply feel frustrated by the unnecessary volume of these reactions, which can be harmful to our ears and the ears of those around us.

There are certainly valid reasons to scream—like when faced with a genuine threat or danger. But when the trigger is something as ordinary as fanart, a new episode of a favorite show, or a social media post, it raises questions about the appropriateness of such reactions. We believe that finding a balance in expressing excitement can lead to a more enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

Here are some examples of overzealous excitement Jamie and I have encountered on the Internet in the past few years, mostly over illogical things that don't justify all that noise (we're not going to mention any names for the sake of privacy):

YouTube Users: It’s not uncommon to see creators on YouTube who express their excitement with lengthy, loud reactions—like celebrating subscriber milestones with an overwhelming scream during a livestream.

Fandom Wikis: Some fans engage in enthusiastic shouting in community posts when discussing things like personal milestones, leading to curiosity about emotional regulation in fandom spaces.

Art and Community Platforms: It's frequently observed that fans leave exuberant comments or posts on art-sharing sites, expressing delight over fanart of their favorite characters, often in a way that is difficult to follow due to the sheer volume of excitement.

Discussion Boards: On various fandom wikis, certain users have been known to react with extreme excitement to announcements about new character forms or expansions of their favorite series, resulting in multiple outbursts in comment sections.

Streaming Platforms: Enthusiastic fans often erupt in excitement when seeing beloved characters or content creators, sometimes making comments that are overwhelmingly lengthy and difficult to decipher due to repetitive exclamatory remarks.

Celebratory Reactions: Some individuals exhibit intense reactions during milestones, such as the release of much-anticipated content—like animated series or game updates—often leading to discussions that spiral into chaotic emotional exchanges.

Social Media Platforms: It's not rare for users on platforms like Twitter and Instagram to vociferously express excitement over new projects or appearances, which can sometimes overshadow the actual content they’re excited about.

Multi-Platform Reactions: Across various platforms, some fans express their passion for a particular series or game through excessive exclamations and reactions, often in a back-and-forth screaming match, creating an environment that can sometimes feel overwhelming to others.

Event Announcements: Whether on comic or anime platforms, individuals may react vocally to new season announcements or art reveals, leaving others to wonder whether such reactions could be expressed in less jarring ways.

Creative Platforms: Users often showcase their reactions to new content on platforms like DeviantArt and Newgrounds, where emotional expressions sometimes take precedence over a more thoughtful interaction with the ongoing discussions.

While we understand that excitement can be intense, the sheer volume of these reactions often feels excessive. I've been genuinely concerned about these users' behaviors and want to help them find healthier ways to express their enthusiasm. However, I worry that if I reach out with suggestions, they might not respond positively, as evidenced by some previous interactions.

Now, I know some of you might be thinking, "What's the big deal? It's just a little screaming." But the truth is, excessive screaming can have some serious consequences. For one, it can be incredibly annoying and discomforting for others who may not share the same level of enthusiasm. It can create a negative atmosphere and make others feel uncomfortable or irritated. In extreme cases, it can even escalate into online harassment or bullying, targeting those who don't share the same opinions or feelings. Furthermore, constant screaming can lead to social isolation. Others may avoid interacting with you online if they know that you're going to scream and freak out over every little thing. It can also damage your credibility and authority on a particular topic, making you come across as immature or attention-seeking. But that's not all. Excessive screaming can even have physical and mental health consequences, such as headaches, anxiety, or stress. And for public figures or influencers, it can be seen as unprofessional and damage their reputation. Perhaps most importantly, screaming can reinforce negative self-image and low self-esteem. If you feel like you need to scream to validate your own feelings or opinions, it can create a toxic cycle of behavior that's hard to break.

Now, I know it can be hard to resist the urge to scream and freak out when something amazing happens in your favorite fandom. But here's the thing: there are healthier ways to express your excitement and enthusiasm. 

Allow me to introduce a little step-by-step guide for you to help calm down and control your need to scream:

Awareness - Recognize when you are becoming excited and anticipate the urge to scream. Being aware of your emotions can help you prepare to manage them.

Breathing Techniques - Practice deep breathing or mindfulness techniques to help calm yourself down. Inhale deeply through your nose, hold for a few seconds, and then exhale slowly through your mouth. Repeat this for a few times until you feel calmer.

Count to Ten - When you feel the urge to scream, try counting to 10 slowly in your head. This can help you pause and regain control over your emotions.

Physical Movement - If possible, engage in physical activities like walking, stretching, or even clenching and releasing your fists to release pent-up energy.

Channel Your Energy - Instead of screaming, redirect your excitement into a creative activity, such as painting, playing music, or engaging in a hobby you enjoy.

Mindfulness Meditation - Practice mindfulness meditation to stay present in the moment and observe your feelings without judgment. This can help you manage your excitement more effectively.

Progressive Muscle Relaxation - Tense and relax different muscle groups in your body one by one. This can help release tension and calm your mind.

Positive Affirmations - Repeat positive affirmations to yourself to focus on the good feelings associated with your excitement. Try some affirmations like "I am calm," "I am centered," "I am grounded," "I can manage this energy," "I choose to breathe deep," "I am capable of handling this," "I choose to be mindful of my emotions," and "I am releasing any unnecessary tension."

Practice Gratitude - Take a moment to appreciate what is making you excited and express gratitude for it. This can help you shift your focus to positive emotions.

Practice Self-Control - Remind yourself of the impact that screaming may have on others around you. Practice self-control and consider expressing your excitement in a more controlled manner.

Know Your Triggers - Being aware of what triggers you can help you take back control. Pay attention to situations that typically lead to screaming and try to anticipate them to manage your response.

Celebrate With Words - Instead of screaming or gushing, express your excitement verbally in a calmer tone. Phrases like "I'm so excited!" or "This is amazing!" can convey enthusiasm without overwhelming those nearby.

Think Of Others - Remember that the way we express joy can impact those around us. Taking a moment to reflect on how your actions may affect others can help cultivate a more respectful fandom culture.

Seek Professional Help -  If you're still struggling to manage your emotions, consider talking to a therapist.

Remember to practice self-awareness, respect boundaries, and find healthy outlets outside of fandoms. With a little practice and patience, you can learn to express your enthusiasm in ways that are respectful, considerate, and positive for everyone involved.

Joy's Note:

In honor of the Year of the Dragon, I have composed a modern Chinese track on GarageBand called "Dance of the Dragons". This song combines traditional Chinese elements with contemporary sounds, creating a harmonious fusion that celebrates the rich cultural heritage of China.

Immerse yourself in the enchanting melodies that intertwine with energetic beats, evoking images of dragons soaring through the sky and ancient tales coming to life. The traditional Chinese instruments, seamlessly blended with modern electronic elements, create a unique sonic experience that pays homage to the past while embracing the present.

Joy: For this September, the DeviantArt team has given the community some new challenges that they can contribute to. One of them is the Pokemon/Digimon Rainforest Collab, held by Charity-Guildmaster. This collab is to help support the Nature Conservancy of Canada, and people can contribute to it by submitting jungle or rainforest-themed artwork of a Pokemon or a Digimon. When Jamie and I learned about this, we decided to partake in the collab ourselves. I also had downloaded some nature-themed brushes for Procreate, so this was a perfect opportunity to test them out. 

Jamie: Since Joy and I love both Pokemon and Digimon, we decided to include one of each in our drawing. The 'Mons we chose were Sprigatito and Palmon, which is very fitting because they both have a nature theme. Sprigatito is a Grass-type Pokemon while Palmon is a Vegetation Digimon. Not to mention they both have nature-related powers and attacks (Sprigatito has Leafage, Seed Bomb, Magical Leaf, Grass Knot, Bullet Seed, Leaf Storm, Grass Pledge, and Solar Storm, while Palmon has Poison Ivy, Root Breaker, Plant Shock, Thorn Thrust, Sleep Spores, Thorn Throw, Stench Attack, and Poison Powder). So, who wouldn't see these two be included in a jungle/rainforest-themed scenario of sorts?

Joy: I drew Sprigatito, while Jamie did Palmon. I also did the background using my new brushes, including the grass, ferns, and tree foilage. I must say, we both did a pretty good job. But while we want to enter our submission to the collab, there's only one little problem: Backgrounds are not allowed, and Charity only wants transparent backgrounds. So, to solve this problem, we will submit our drawings separately and without the background. However, we'll keep it just for our gallery. We might also upload separate drawings of Sprigatito and Palmon just in case. Even if our submissions don't make it to the collab, we know we still had fun drawing some cute 'Mons in a scene that fits their type. 

Jamie: Wouldn't it be cool if we got a jungle-themed Pokemon game or a crossover with Digimon? I bet it would. What do you think?

Joy's Note: A few days ago, I heard that Newgrounds is holding a special collab that celebrates the birthday of everyone's favorite teal-haired Japanese virtual idol, Hatsune Miku. I was pretty intrigued, so I decided to take part in the collab as well. For my contribution, I decided to draw some fanart of Miku. Specifically, I chose to draw the Friday Night Funkin' version of her, as she appears in the fan mod Concert Conundrum. Since I downloaded some new brushes and stamps on the Procreate website, I decided to use those to give my artwork a little more flair, hence why the "Happy Birthday Miku" message is written in bright, glittery letters and the scene is decorated with fireworks and neon smiley faces.

Since Miku is Boyfriend's older sister, I imagine her inviting BF to sing with her in honor of her special day, just like she did in Concert Conundrum. It would probably be a private singing session and not in front of a large crowd like last time, since Miku wants to spend some quality time with her brother instead of around her fans. Hey, even virtual idols need some peaceful time to themselves. Boyfriend would really make his sister happy by collaborating on a new song with her. Who knows?

“Friday Night Funkin’: Girls’ Night Out”

This is a Toca Life music video Joy made for Valentine’s Day a few years ago. 

The instrumental song in this video is called "Beat of My Heart", and it's from a Filipino music company called ProwelBeats. If you liked the song and want to hear more ProwelBeats music, you should probably check out their channel.

Joy’s Note: Hey, folks! Long time, no upload, huh?

Joy’s Note: This is a drawing I did of tiger character from one of my favorite video game franchises: Animal Crossing. The one I chose to draw was Claudia (or Marilyn, as she's called in Japanese), the only tiger villager with a Snooty personality.

Joy’s Note: Since today is Easter, I decided to upload a song here that I made a few years ago using an online game called "Singing Easter Eggs". There are three eggs in the game that sing and make music: The green egg plays a banjo, the red egg whistles, and the blue egg provides a vocal bass line.