Information on the Golden PADD Competition
The Golden PADD, also known as the Short Story Competition, is the first competition within Obsidian Fleet where we challenge our creative players to write a short story of 7500 words or less during the month of June.
How do you get started?
Once you have figured out what story you are to write, submit your interest by sending an email with the following details to; [email protected]
- Your Name:
- Your Age:
- Your main character in OF:
- Story Title: (this can be changed later)
- Age Rating:
Once you’ve done this, you will officially be entered into the competition!
It is the middle of June and you are finished?
That’s great, but do you want to submit it yet? We will only accept the first submission and no revisions so, ensure you have it perfect!
What will you be judged on?
It is only fair that you are told the criteria you are going to be put against, so here it is;
Premise/Concept/Plot 10%
Does writer engage the reader’s attention immediately? Is tone, setting and character established promptly? Is the premise/Concept logical, or too far fetched?
Presentation 20%
Is writing fresh and free of clichés? Does it reveal writer’s vision and attitude clearly? Are viewpoint changes and pacing handled smoothly?
Characters & Dialogue 20%
Are characters believable, well-rounded? Actions and interactions consistent and well motivated?
Theme 10%
Does the theme represent what has been set down? Does it correspond to current knowledge from fans? Is it believable?
Plot 20%
Does progression seem inevitable without being too predictable? Is story interesting and compelling to read?
Style/Tone 20%
Is grammar and punctuation correct? Spelling accurate? Is manuscript professionally prepared? Are details consistent and correct?
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will the story that is submitted need to be new?
A: Yes. The story must be wrote during the month of June (1 to 30th)
Q: Can I submit my entry after the deadline?
A: No. Entries after 30 June will be disqualified.
Q: Are ‘fan fiction’ stories allowed?
A: Absolutely!
Q: Can I write with someone else, as a joint effort?
A: Yes, of course. Both parties must submit a submission, and state you are working as a team! Working as a team will also mean you share the prize!
Q: Will crossover fiction be allowed, such as Star Trek/Star Wars?
A: No. The story must be entirely Trek this year. Next year, however, this may change!
Q: Can the story be above, or below, the word count limit?
A: This is up to the judges. If your story is 10% either way, the judges will not mark down, however, they may if it is significantly out and of detriment to the story. So be careful!
Q: I’m dyslexic, will this count against me?
A: There are many online tools to support people with additional needs, such as Google Drive, Grammarly (free or premium) and more. The critera set above is for everyone and no special provisions can, or will, be made.
Q: Are canon characters allowed?
A: No, all characters must be new.
Q: Who are the judges?
A: Only Fluffy knows the answer.
Q: Can I bribe a judge?
A: Ask yourself, do you feel lucky?
If there are any questions, please email; [email protected]