GUTTER01
FIND THE
WRONG IDEA.
Invent a character who wants something, then give them a world with one impossible rule. Use the Spark Machine if your brain is temporarily off-air.
BACK TO THE FEEDHOW TO
THE UNOFFICIAL MANUAL FOR OFFICIAL WEIRDNESS
HOW TO
BREAK A STORY.
A completely free, very slightly cursed guide to writing interactive fiction. No code, no writing degree, and absolutely no need for a normal ending.
EVERY DOOR NEEDS ANOTHER DOOR →✳ THE THREE STEPS / ZINE 001
START STRANGE.
END STRANGER.
FIND THE
02
GIVE THEM
BAD OPTIONS.
Write an opening, create at least two outcomes, and make your choices lead somewhere. The studio checks unreachable passages and can show your visual branch map.
03
TEST IT.
LET IT LOOSE.
Test-play every route, add content warnings when needed, and submit for publisher review. Your submission remains private until approved; then you can share it with the next beautiful troublemaker.
✳ NO BLANK-PAGE PANICSTEAL THE
STEAL THE
FRAMEWORK.
MAKE IT YOURS.
Choose one of three illustrated outline kits. They're not completed stories: you create the passages and twist the ending.
CHOOSE A KIT IN THE STUDIO
✳ THE ANNOYING BUT USEFUL QUESTIONSSTILL HAVE
STILL HAVE
QUESTIONS?
We keep it simple so you can spend more time writing than navigating a manual.
What is an interactive story?
It's a story with decisions. You write connected passages, and readers choose which scene comes next. Different choices can lead to different endings.
Do I need to know how to code?
No. GutterLore has a visual branching-story writer where you add passages and connect choices by selecting destinations.
Can I save a story before it is ready?
Yes. Save private drafts and return through My Shelf. Submitting for publication sends your story to a private publisher review queue. Approved stories appear in the public archive.
Can I use a starter kit or the Spark Machine?
Yes. Starter kits are editable outlines, and the Spark Machine remixes weird premise fragments. Replace any guide text and write your own original content before publishing.
Who owns my writing?
You retain the rights you hold in original work you create. Publishing gives Syndicate Hub LLC the limited platform-display license described in the Terms. Read the full Terms before posting.
✳ NO ONE HAS TO WRITE ALONE
EVERY STRANGE UNIVERSE
STARTS WITH ONE SENTENCE.
WRITE THE FIRST LINE GutterLore is operated by Syndicate Hub LLC. Read the publishing terms and House Rules.