Spinoffs, Continuations & Adaptations

[Jamison]

Hoping to open up a new discussion about the different types of VS projects a writer can choose to develop. While the act of creating a story from scratch is 'ideal' for writers, some pretty great, new stories can come from ideas previously established by other writers.

So, what are your thoughts on virtual continuations, spinoff series, and adaptations of novels, video games, comic books, etc...

Have you ever considered dipping into pre-existing universes/characters? If so, which universe(s)? Also, what are your thoughts on developing an adaption versus an original series? Do you have a certain preference when looking for something to read/write?

[David]

I like the idea of have a spinoff or continuation. With the twelfth doctor, I considered bringing back an original series character and giving her a spinoff

[guyrjames]

I have a soft spot for continuations. That's how I started getting into the virtual series thing...was by reading the virtual continuations, and getting really excited about that world living on. My first pitch ever was a continuation of sorts dealing with Buffy's kid. (I know...I know, what was I thinking?), but I've off and on toyed with stepping into other worlds, but those ideas always seemed to be TOO much like the original, but if someone had a keen idea on continuing a series, or making a spin-off, as long as the writing is promising and the storylines are good, I'd be up for it.

[Ms. Kerry]

I of course love spin-offs since my show is one! I just know that many times it can be difficult to actually create something fresh and new.

It seems the best ideas for spin-offs seem to come from when characters get their own show.

For example : the show Frasier was a spin-off from Cheers. They took a beloved character from the parent and put him in his own world with new characters and it was a hit.

I took Rose from Doctor Who and put her in her own world with new things and Jack did that for Chloe and Chris did that for Lana. I personally think it is a very good way to go and it catches the reader's interest cause they see character in a new way.

As for continuations I am slightly more meh about them. It seems they are best when the show ended prematurely (like Firefly) instead of being fully completed.

[Jason T. Davis]

Spinoffs are okay, but my opinion of them varies. All depends on the source material; what it was, how much did it appeal to me, etc...

Few years back, I would have been down to read any Buffyverse spinoff, but it's gotten more and more difficult to come up with fresh ideas for that universe. The fandom in relation to VS is plagued with "been there, done that" projects, so its hard to pick one that really stands on its own two feet, rather than riding on the back of its predecessors.

So recently, I've pretty much decided to look for more original projects, when writing and reading... unless you've got a really unique idea that takes a pre-established universe and brings something completely new to the table, or follows a character that truly "deserves" more attention, I won't bother getting into it, even if it's exceptionally produced. My random two cents.

[aria]

I am new to the virtual series world but I am intrigued by all of it. I have been writing for as long as I can remember. I just write more prose than anything so writing actual scripts will take some getting used to. As for the shows I like best, spin-offs are it for sure!