Special mentions for 2023 · 11:39am Dec 31st, 2023
Another year comes to an end. And I'm sure for many of us, it's a time to look back on the memories we've made.
As a frequent member of Fimfiction, I find myself thinking back on the many new stories I've read this year. And while there are a fair few of them I've enjoyed, I wanted to acknowledge two particular writers who have delivered some truly great pieces of work that have stood out to me the most.
The first mention is to Admiral Producer. This year has brought about the completion of his long-term project known as The Misty Saga. To recap, this is basically an alternate take on Misty's redemption. After Opaline reveals her deception, Misty is wracked with guilt over bringing her Sparky and betraying her friends. The saga follows her journey as she comes to terms with her mistakes and leads her friends in taking down Opaline for good. Along the way, the group must band together more than ever as the evil alicorn's influence starts to have devastating effects on Equestria.
This is honestly one of the best series I've read in a long time. It is heart-warming, emotional and terrifying in all the right places, and the writer has really put a lot of thought into every moment of it. I can even confidently say that it has meant as much to me as Make Your Mark has, if not more.
My second mention is to Flamewarrior02. Like Admiral Producer, this writer has written his own series focusing on one particular character, and is appropriately named The Zipp Saga. Following the events of the Tell Your Tale episode As the Misty Clears, the dark magic from Misty's necklace causes Zipp to start suffering unpleasant thoughts and exhibiting concerning behaviour. And after almost succumbing to the darkness completely, she ends up having a severe breakdown. The saga largely focuses on her recovery as she comes to terms with her insecurities and finds peace in herself. Pipp and Misty also play a smaller part, with both of them dealing with how they contributed to Zipp's suffering.
This is another one of the more emotional and better written series that I've seen in a while. Seeing Zipp in despair and fighting her way through to recovery is bound to tug at the heart of anyone who reads this. I really commend Flamewarrior02 for the effort he's put into this series.
For those who aren't familiar with these writers or read these particular stories, I'll provide the links below.
What about you guys? Are there any stories that have stood out to you this year? If so, then feel free to share. I'd be very interested to hear what you have to say.
Anyway, Happy New Year everyone, and best wishes for 2024!
