Reflections on My First Fandoms: From Star Wars to BTS

Reflections on My First Fandoms: From Star Wars to BTS

My journey as a fan has been a rollercoaster, marked by numerous fictional universes that captured my imagination during my childhood. My first serious fandoms were undeniably Star Wars, Godzilla, and later Pokémon. These franchises shaped my early interests and sparked a passion that persists to this day, even as trends and personal tastes evolve.

The Nostalgia of My Childhood Fandoms

Reflecting on these fond memories from the late 1990s, the internet was still in its early stages, far from the expansive digital world of today. Despite the limited access to information, these franchises held a unique place in my heart. Star Wars, with its intricate universe and iconic characters, ignited my imagination, while Godzilla and Pokémon offered thrilling narratives and endless adventures.

While my love for Pokémon dimmed over time, I always have a soft spot in my heart for the Switch games. As a Nintendo fan, picking up new titles keeps me engaged, making me a more complete collector in my gaming library.

The Enduring Love for Mega Man

A particularly significant fandom that began in my youth was Mega Man. I spent countless hours making sprite comics, writing fanfiction, even creating original characters (OCs). This dedication earned me respect within online communities. However, I've noticed a decline in the quality and innovation of recent entries in the franchise, which has somewhat dampened my enthusiasm. The Mega Man Zero series, with their compelling narratives and exceptional art, still hold a special place, but they have now reached their limit.

The Halo Fandom and Beyond

Next followed the Halo fandom, where I poured my creativity into fanfiction. Although I still cherish the games and a few novels, the fandom itself is a bit quieter and less welcoming than before. I still enjoy Halo, but the community is no longer as vibrant as it once was.

Discovering BTS: A New Bright Spot

My current obsession is the K-pop group BTS. I picked up on them this summer and quickly fell in love with their music and message. BTS's unique storytelling through their songs and speeches resonated with me, and I find myself still devoted to them months later. Unlike my commitment to other fandoms, my love for BTS feels more spontaneous and long-lasting.

Despite not fitting the typical mold for a long-term fandom, my enduring love for BTS remains a testament to the power of music and storytelling. Their ability to connect with their audience on an emotional level is something truly special, and clearly, they have captured my heart and mind.

Other Tentative Fandoms

When it comes to my first tentative fandoms, Skulduggery Pleasant, Harry Potter, and Eragon stand out. These franchises sparked my interest, and even though I may not be fully engrossed in them anymore, they still hold a special place in my heart. They represent a part of my journey as a fan and irreplaceable memories from my formative years.

The Evolution of My Fandoms

Moving forward, my fandoms continue to evolve. While I remain committed to certain franchises, the passion for others has waned. However, I remain open to returning to a fandom if they can reignite my excitement. Until then, BTS and a few other interests have taken center stage in my life.