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Introduction
In the past, there have been numerous debates regarding the treatment of "canon-adjacent" content. Some argue that such content is entirely non-canonical, challenging the very definition of the term. On the other hand, some members incorporate it into their personal headcanon, while others see it as partially canonical or supplementary. This discussion thread aims to facilitate conversation and establish standards and guidelines for the usage of this term.
Note: This draft provides a general framework for evaluating canon-adjacent works, but it is essential to adapt and refine these guidelines based on the specific fictional universe or community in question.
Examples
The new section will have an impact on certain examples.
- The Witcher (games and books)
- Kingdom Hearts and Big Hero 6
- RWBY (Ice Queendom)
- EarthBound (Manga and Game)
- Young Justice and
- Green Lantern: The Animated Series (GLTAS)
- Catwoman: Hunted
- DC Showcase: Green Arrow
Draft
This is the draft depicting its appearance and maintaining consistency with other sections of the page.
Canon-adjacent refers to content or works that are closely related to the official canon of a particular fictional universe, but may not be considered part of the primary or official canon itself. It refers to material that exists in the same fictional universe, follows similar rules or principles, and is consistent with the established canon, but is not directly integrated into the main storyline or recognized as official by the creators or rights holders.
Canon-adjacent works often expand upon the existing canon, explore side stories, or focus on secondary characters or events. They may be created by different authors or artists, licensed by the original creators, or authorized by the rights holders. These works are typically intended to complement or enhance the main canon, providing additional context, backstory, or alternative perspectives.
When considering a work as "canon-adjacent", certain factors need to be taken into account:
It is crucial to evaluate each case individually and consider these factors when discussing and interpreting canon-adjacent works within a community.
- If the creators or rights holders of the original canon endorse or participate in the creation of the adjacent work, it is likely to be considered canon-adjacent. Depending on the level of oversight or activity the original creator or rights holders have in the creation of the given work, it may be considered fully canon as opposed to canon-adjacent.
- It should strive to maintain consistency with the existing canon. It should respect the core elements of the original while exploring new storylines or perspectives.
References
For newcomers to the site, it is advisable to review these initial standards in order to grasp the context of the staff thread.
Discussion
Having presented the definition of the term, the question arises as to whether we should categorize these works as completely non-canon. Some authors choose to label them as such due to significant deviations from the established canon or lack of endorsement from the original creators. However, there are instances where canon-adjacent material is still regarded as part of the canon by fans or even acknowledged as such by the creators. The challenge lies in delineating the distinction between a mutual singular canon and a crossover canon that encompasses both sides.
It is important to note that failing to meet these criteria would result in only the content featured in the “expanding” work being usable, without referencing the “source” in any way.
For those unfamiliar with the term seeking a brief summary, "canon-adjacent" can be understood as "half-canon.”