Sidebyggere

Sidebyggere, also known as sidebuilders, are individuals or teams who create content based on existing intellectual property, such as books, movies, or video games, by expanding upon or altering the original material. This practice is often associated with fan communities and can take various forms, including fan fiction, fan art, and fan videos. Sidebuilders typically do not seek financial gain from their creations but rather enjoy the creative process and the opportunity to engage with and contribute to a shared fandom.

The term "sidebuilder" was popularized by the fan community surrounding the video game "The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild." In this context, sidebuilders create custom content, such as mods, textures, and maps, that enhance or alter the game's original design. These creations are often shared with the community through platforms like the Nexus Mods website, where users can download and install them to customize their gaming experience.

Sidebuilding can also involve creating entirely new stories or characters based on existing IP. For example, fan fiction writers might create new narratives set in the world of a popular book series, while fan artists might produce original artwork inspired by a movie franchise. These sidebuilders often collaborate with others in their community, sharing their work and providing feedback to one another.

While sidebuilding can be a rewarding and creative endeavor, it also raises legal and ethical considerations. The use of existing IP without permission can potentially infringe on copyright laws, and sidebuilders must navigate these issues carefully. Additionally, some sidebuilders may face criticism or backlash from the original creators or their studios, as they may view sidebuilding as a form of unauthorized appropriation.

Overall, sidebyggere play a significant role in the fandom ecosystem, fostering creativity, engagement, and community building. Their contributions can enrich the fan experience and provide new perspectives on existing IP, while also challenging and expanding the boundaries of what is possible within a given universe.