The 'Shroom:Issue 217/'Shroomfest
'Shroomfest
Written by: Ninja Squid (talk), Sparks (talk), and Waluigi Time (talk)
THE 'SHROOM: MOVIE NIGHT MAYHEM
'Shroom Research Lab: Hello, everyone! It's been quite a while since we published an update, but rest assured that we've been hard at work here at The 'Shroom Research Lab. Well, everyone except Johnson, who's still been trying to figure out how to get the true ending of Paper 'Shroom: Choose-Your-Own Adventure ever since we dug that up. The rest of us figured it out months ago, but he insists that we don't spoil it for him. Anyway, according to our research, following the events of our last report there was an extended period without any major conflicts among The 'Shroom staff. Although we expected that the era of frequent conflicts had come to an end after multiple shifts in upper management without incident, newly uncovered documents revealed that old habits die hard.
By this time, The 'Shroom was now under the leadership of Waluigi Time and Sparks. As the summer months drew nearer, and with them expectations of an annual summer special issue, they were faced with a question. How could they ensure high morale among the staff to keep them motivated for the year's upcoming projects? A brainstorming session between the two followed, at first not yielding any results. A proposal by Sparks to give free ponies to all the staff members was deemed unfeasible with the paper's current budget, while Waluigi Time's idea to produce a line of 'Shroom action figures would have been far too difficult to implement on short notice.
After several more rejected ideas, ultimately their thoughts turned to The 'Shroom HQ's old movie theater. What better way to raise everyone's spirits than a monthly movie night, after all? Unfortunately, after being refurbished a couple of years prior, the theater had largely fallen into disuse as the staff became too busy with their projects to get much use out of it. It would take a little elbow grease to clean the space up and polish everything off, but Waluigi Time and Sparks agreed that it would be worth it.
Well, maybe more than just a little elbow grease. It looked like something had been clawing at the walls in here... Just what was going on in that basement of theirs? Waluigi Time simply brushed it off as nothing to worry about, and work soon began on restoring the theater.
After the repairs on the movie theater were completed, it was time for the first official Staff Movie Night! Naturally, as director, Waluigi Time felt that he had the right to pick the inaugural movie, and borrowed Invasion of the Uncomfortably Slimy Space Creatures from Shoey's old film collection, a classic of the science fiction genre. Unfortunately, as it turns out there was a bit of a communication error - Sparks didn't realize what Waluigi Time's plan was and had his heart set on a staff viewing of Kingdom of the Ponies: Magic Prevails!, his favorite fantasy movie. With the staff's already busy schedules, they certainly wouldn't have time for a double feature, so they would have to choose only one of them.
Of course, neither were willing to budge. They started arguing with each other in the middle of the theater about why their respective picks were superior (inadvertently spoiling several plot details in the process) before going on tangents about the merits of fantasy and science fiction. As the debate dragged on longer and longer, the staff members began to awkwardly shuffle out of the theater one by one as they all realized they probably wouldn't be seeing a movie anytime soon. Eventually, the scheduled time for movie night had long passed, and Waluigi Time and Sparks were left alone in an empty theater - except for a certain ninja, preparing to get back to his old tricks.
Realizing that the first Staff Movie Night, if it could be considered that, was a bust, they returned to their offices at a stalemate, both of them planning how they could ensure their movie would be chosen when they tried again next month. As Waluigi Time plotted how to ensure the next movie night involved aliens, he was interrupted by the sudden appearance of an E.M.M.I. unit, holding a sheet of paper with the words "COME TO THE BASEMENT" scrawled on it.
Knowing that when hulking robots with glowing red lights tell you to do something, you should probably listen if you know what's good for you, Waluigi Time ventured back into the basement of The 'Shroom HQ, finding none other than Ninja Squid. He told Waluigi Time that he had heard the debate between him and Sparks, and that he had a surefire way to guarantee that Invasion of the Uncomfortably Slimy Space Creatures would play at the next Staff Movie Night. Specifically, Ninja Squid highlighted the fantastic weaponry that appeared in science fiction movies - high-tech blasters, laser swords, even robot soldiers! All Waluigi Time needed to do was rally his supporters and create a tremendous show of force to prove once and for all that his pick was the only proper one for the first ever Staff Movie Night. That seemed like a great idea to Waluigi Time, so he thanked Ninja Squid for the advice and set off to do just that (unfortunately for him, Ninja Squid had certain other objectives in mind and couldn't spare E.M.M.I.).
With half of his plan complete, a devious smirk emerged under Ninja Squid's mask as he left to go sneak his way into Sparks' office - a trivial task for one so experienced. Once again, he told Sparks that he heard the debate, only this time he promised that Kingdom of the Ponies: Magic Prevails! would be the pick for the next Staff Movie Night under his plan, spinning a vision of an army of valiant knights, powerful wizards, and horse-drawn chariots. By rallying a formidable army to his side, Sparks would ensure that Waluigi Time would have no choice but to concede! Sparks too thought this was a great idea, and went to gather supporters of his own to prove to everyone that magic indeed prevails.
With both members of the directing staff falling for it hook, line, and sinker and heading into New Wikisburg to gather supporters for their chosen movies, only time would tell as to what would happen next...
'Shroom Research Lab: Leave it to these people to start a battle of epic proportions over something as simple as a group movie night! We're still looking through documents to figure out exactly what happened in the ensuing confrontation between Sparks and Waluigi Time, so please stay tuned.
Staff Notes
Back into my good ol' judge seat, yeah!!!
Hi there! This is your unbiased judge, Ninja Squid, and welcome to an all-new round of 'Shroomfest! It's been quite a while since our last one, and we're excited to kick things off again with a fresh debate that's sure to spark some passionate discussion. This time around, Sparks and Waluigi Time are at odds over a classic debate: Fantasy vs. Science-Fiction. They’re each convinced their chosen genre is superior—and now it’s your turn to weigh in!
In case this is your first time taking part in this event, or you're simply a bit rusty on how things work, be sure to check out the rules and guidelines below. They are many ways to show your support to your dedicated side. You’ll also find the opening arguments from Sparks and Waluigi Time. They both have put together compelling cases that just might sway your opinion if you are still undecided.
Now then, let the full chaos of 'Shroomfest begin. Have fun and stay fresh!
Now now... I got a new job for my E.M.M.I.
—Ninja Squid, Judge
Which genre do you prefer, fantasy or sci-fi?
Choose your side and cast a vote!
Join Team Fantasy
So it's come to this: an epic battle between Fantasy and Science Fiction... it is ON!
Oh, hi! I didn't see you there. Welcome to a rather unexpected 'Shroomfest that got its start from a film genre dispute! Don't get me wrong, I think Sci-Fi is a fine category for movies. We got some awesome stuff out of it like Star Wars, but there is no way I'm missing an opportunity to show my friends Kingdom of the Ponies: Magic Prevails! Watching adorable ponies triumph over evil with the power of Magic (which friendship is a part of!) is WAY better than watching 90 minutes of disgusting green blobs in Invasion of the Uncomfortably Slimy Space Creatures. Ew! I shudder just thinking about it... Sorry Waluigi Time, you're not gonna get the last laugh!
From today (the 19th of April) to the 10th of May, I will show my undying support for Fantasy that'll hopefully get you on my side! I've already got many ideas planned - it'll be a fun and crazy battle! Come on! I have a Twilight Sparkle plushie! I was destined to lead Team Fantasy!
So what sayeth you? Join me, and you can be a knight, wizard, dragon, pony or anything else Fantasy-related! If you'd rather settle with being a fantastic Fantasy fan, be my guest! Together we shall prove to Waluigi Time that Fantasy prevails no matter what!
Bring all of your magical relics, swords and spells to the Fantasy vs. Sci-Fi debate thread!
—Sparks, Leader of Team Fantasy
Join Team Sci-Fi
Now you will witness the true power of science fiction!
So, it looks like my Sub-Director and I are having a little disagreement here on the best way to inaugurate movie night. Sure, fantasy is fine, I suppose... But the only fantasy here is that Sparks thinks we'll be watching anything other than Invasion of the Uncomfortably Slimy Space Creatures! They're from space, AND they're slimy! To an uncomfortable degree! That sounds way cooler than a bunch of horses running around shooting happy magic spells, don't you think?
Over the next three weeks, I'll be working to convince you that sci-fi is clearly the superior option here! For the first week, we'll be talking about all the great pieces of sci-fi media that have been produced over the years! I'm sure Sparks has plenty of examples on his side, but you know what I've got? Money! Not the "buying votes" kind because that's kind of unethical I guess, but the "smash the box office" kind! In the weeks to come, we'll also be taking a look at some of the characters that make those stories so great, as well as the unique vibes and aesthetics that sci-fi has to offer. Who would want to miss out on that? (I'll tell you who, aliens.)
Believe me when I say this is the team you're looking for! With your help, we'll show Sparks why lasers and robots beat swords and dragons any day! Maybe even a long time ago...
Join me, and together, we will rule the 'Shroomfest!
—Waluigi Time, Leader of Team Sci-Fi
Rules
In order to help you earn points for each team, we have opted to divide things into three categories.
| Categories | |
|---|---|
| VOTES | You can vote on the poll below once per week. Rally behind your side or give your votes to the side that makes the most entertaining and interesting points each week after looking at the unfolding discussion! |
| ENDORSEMENTS | Show your pride in supporting a team by posting an endorsement (type "Endorse: [Team]" in bold) and, if you want, words of encouragement (such as "Fantasy for the win!" "Go Team Sci-Fi!") in the event thread. |
| EFFORTS | You think you can make a difference and tip the scales of victory towards your team? Bring your side to new heights by posting fan art, your own opinions, a silly story, roleplays, drawings or even photos highlighting your preferred destination. Putting in the effort can be rewarding after all! |
The result will depend on the number of categories a team will win. For example: If Team Alpha receives 12 endorsements, while Team Bravo receives 8 endorsements, that means that Alpha wins on the endorsements category. The team who wins the most categories will be declared the winner of the 'Shroomfest. In addition, the winner is officially and objectively the best according to The 'Shroom's law. Therefore, taking the win is very important!
Event Guidelines
The 'Shroomfest's thread will be opened by the designated judge, who will make a brief introduction to the current 'Shroomfest's subject and the two team leaders, who will make the opening posts for their teams.
Afterwards, for a period of three weeks, the team leaders and their supporters will rally in support of their team. They'll do this with interesting facts, light-hearted arguments, art, photos, and stories that will demonstrate the reasons why their choices should be crowned as the best under 'Shroom law. After one week, the judge will write a brief note, highlighting their favorite posts from both teams.
Using your votes, endorsements, and effort posts, you can help your team get one point per category each week. In other words, a given individual can earn up to three points for their team of choice each week if they contribute to every category.
Afterwards, the judge will present both teams with a fresh question to answer or challenge to complete over the course of the next week, to keep the discussion moving forward and provide interesting new angles for participants trying to think of ideas to support their team.
Once the three-week period has passed, the judge will conclude the event with a short message and invite the participants to come back for the results that will come out at the release of the 'Shroom's next issue. Any message posted after the judge closes the event won't be taken into account during the compilation of the results.
How to endorse a team: In the event thread, you just need to post, in bold, "Endorse: [Team]", filling in the brackets with the team you want to support. You're also encouraged, though not required, to offer some brief words of support to your team. It is entirely possible to change teams at any time by writing another another endorsement for the other team. Take note that only the last team you endorse before the event ends will be counted for your weekly endorsement, so be sure that the team you choose to endorse last is the one you want to support.
How to give points to the Efforts category: To score points for your team in the "Efforts" category, you must add valuable posts to the event. Lay out your own opinion, create art or photos (caption are allowed), write entertaining stories, or even make a meme or two. Making the most interesting and entertaining case is an important part of the event, because it might help win those sitting on the sidelines over to your side. There's no hard rule on what constitutes an effort post, but, as a rule of thumb, it should be something which takes more than a couple minutes to create. If you are unsure if something is worthy of the "Efforts" category, just ask the judge about it on Discord or via a PM. Our main goal is to make the event as accessible as possible.
Please note that, in an effort to keep the event civil, fun, and light-hearted, we request that you please respect all the instructions. Any inappropriate behaviors (spam, flaming, personal attacks, etc.), and discussions regarding politics, social issues, or any controversial topics that veer away from the light-hearted nature of this event will not be tolerated.
The eighth 'Shroomfest will take place from April 19th to May 10th. To join in and support a team, click here.
Cast a vote!
VOTE NOW!
| The 'Shroom: Issue 217 | |
|---|---|
| Staff sections | Staff Notes • The 'Shroom Spotlight • Poochy's Picks • 'Shroomfest • Credits |
| Features | Fake News • Fun Stuff • Palette Swap • Pipe Plaza • Critic Corner • Strategy Wing |
