woodenplankstudios
patreon
Moving on
🕑 Added 2024-05-24 17:00:11 +0000 UTCHi everyone. I am going to quit Wooden Plank Studios on July 3rd. That means that there won't be any Wooden Plank Studios content posted after that date. I know this is rough news for some, so I created a video in which I talk about why it's time to call it quits, please watch that for the best explanation I can give (if you can stand 17 minutes of Dutch accent of course). For those who can't watch the video right now, I'll try to give a short-ish summary right here:
Final Pokémonday: July 1st
Final Tuesday Chooseday: July 2nd
Final webcomic: July 3rd
Why I'm quitting
The biggest reason by far: I just don't have the energy anymore. I've been doing this for 11 years and it has been an amazing experience, but the 12 hour workdays, no weekends and constant stress have been slowly killing my social life and having a negative effect on my mental health and physical health. I've been been able to make it work with the help of interns, but a solo trip to Spain last year made me realize just how much I have been missing over the past 11 years of locking myself in an office every day, which is: life.
It has pretty much always been this way from the moment we've started making webcomics, and I've had moments of doubt like this before, but I've always managed to convince myself to keep going and power through the never-ending stress, because it felt like I was building something great. But this time it felt different, because it actually hasn't felt like I'm building anything anymore for a while now. Numbers and engagement are dropping everywhere and the lines are going down, especially on Twitter (since Elon Musk took over), but also on Instagram, and, most importantly, Patreon.
I don't want to blame changing algorithms too much. I do feel like the internet is less welcoming to traditional webcomics these days, but maybe I have just gotten worse at what I do, which is entirely possible. I've definitely seen more critical or downright angry comments in recent years. But it doesn't really matter where this decline is coming from: it all boils down to the fact that I'm getting clear signals that I might have peaked. And I don't want to be in an MCU situation where you've clearly peaked years ago but you're still desperately pumping out content in an effort to remain relevant, you know?
Another reason why I can't go on anymore: there's barely any creativity involved with making the comics anymore. The interns and I have turned Wooden Plank into an incredibly efficient comic-making machine, but there's no time for experimentation at all anymore. It's too much of a risk given the tight deadlines we have every week.
We've also moved offices a while ago, and now we're surrounded by a bunch of incredibly talented artists that make beautiful (and meaningful) work that I've subconsciously been comparing to our silly little Nintendo fancomics and it made me realize that maybe, just maybe, silly little Nintendo fancomics is not where my heart truly lies.
So to summarize: sheer exhaustion + the feeling of a sinking ship + no creative satisfaction + comparison to other artists = lots of doubts about whether I wanted to continue doing this, and I decided that it might be time to pull the plug.
And once I this thought had taken hold in my brain, I quickly lost all remaining energy and passion, which made work even harder. Stuff I had been able to deal with just fine (mean comments, weird things being posted in the Discord, DMs harassing me about how I'm treating someone's favorite fictional character, et cetera) suddenly started hitting me harder than ever and it became very hard to deal with every day. So because of this, I haven't been doing too well over the past year, to be honest. Which probably means that it is indeed time to stop.
Wrapping up
I'm not just suddenly quitting out of the blue though. I'm going to continue making content until July 3rd, which is the day the final comic will be posted. This battle royale arc will be the final arc we'll ever do, and I've chosen this arc intentionally. I wanted to please as many people as I could by giving myself the chance to draw as many different characters from different franchises as possible. A little victory lap, if you will. I'll do my best to end it in a satisfying way.
The final Tuesday Chooseday will be posted the day before, on July 2nd. We worked our asses of to get the mascots done in time so we can still have a bit of a betting competition going on before this is all over, which, admittedly, has made my work a bit more fun in the past few weeks. I'm really enjoying this game mechanic-expansion. There will be six more Tuesday Choosedays to bet on, so if you haven't done so yet, join our Patreon, get in our Discord and become part of one of the three betting teams! I'll make sure to come up with a cool reward for the winning team, maybe a signed print or something neat like that.
The final Pokémonday entry will be posted on July 1st. We're actually really close to having a full dex, so I have been increasing output lately to get it finished in time. I might make some extra Pokémon in my spare time if we don't make it in the regular way, but we'll see. I'll make sure our dex is finished by July 1st one way or another.
As for this Patreon and the Discord: they will remain online for a while longer. This Patreon has A TON of exclusive content in it so I want that to remain available to people for as long as we can. Likewise, we'll keep the Discord up for the foreseeable future as well. When we think it's time to close them, we'll let you know, of course.
This also means that this is your final chance to be part of a Wooden Plank Studios comic through an Instagram shoutout portrait, so if you've ever been thinking about getting yourself one of those, join that $5 tier while you still can!
There might be some random posts after July 3rd to wrap things up, but no truly new content.
What's next for me?
I don't have a fucking clue. Frankly, I'm terrified. I'm destroying a unique job that has taken me 10+ years to create and I'm probably nuking my only source of income as well, so I have no idea what's about to happen, and that's scary as fuck. What's even scarier - but also exciting - is that I'm going to live in Nagoya, Japan for a year (if I manage to get my visa). I've saved enough money over the years to afford a year of language classes, so in October I'm leaving all my family, friends and pets behind for a year to study the Japanese language. I've been doing that on a low level for a few years now, and learning the language is quite a challenge, but I like that, so I'm excited to focus on that for a year. I'm hoping that this will integrate with my post-Wooden Plank career; I'd love to work for Japanese clients or work with Japanese fellow artists. I guess we'll see!
I will also continue to make comics. They just won't be (as much) about Nintendo characters anymore. Right now, I feel a really strong urge to experiment and learn new stuff and discover what I can do when I'm not forced to create the same kind of content every week. But comics will always remain a focus of my work. I can only speculate what kind of comics I'll make in the future. I kind of feel like making more autobiographical, personal stuff, but I'm not sure if my life is interesting enough to make fun comics about, haha. I'd also like to tackle some more... important issues that I really care about, like animal welfare, LGBTQ+ rights and feminism. But as I said, this is all speculation.
Follow my personal account, @abelhagen (on everything) if you want to see what I'll make next!
If you decide to keep supporting me on Patreon as I face this scary and uncertain future, I would, of course, be incredibly grateful, but I totally understand if you want to cancel your subscription after July 3rd as there won't be any new content. I do have to survive somehow though, so continued support would be amazing. I'll also be looking for paid work, so if you have any leads, send me a DM on one of my personal accounts! Hey, maybe I'll even start doing commissions for a while! What I'm trying to say is: after July 3rd, I'm available. Which is something I haven't been in 11 years.
That's about it. Which brings me to a big...
THANK YOU!
First of all, I want to thank all the amazing interns that have helped me run this company over the past 10 years. Fazile, Shewani, Eline, Olivier, Merel, Janika, Luuk, Coen, Hugo, Arnold, Felicia, Laura (1), Cecil, Nina, Jamie, Erik, Bakita, Charlot, Sarah, Elias, Celesta, Milla, Levi, Cyril, Kim, Mink, Laura (2) and Tigran: stress would have killed me years ago if it weren't for you guys and I'm proud on each and every one of you. It's been a privilege to work with talented artists like you.
Another big thank you to co-founder Christiaan, who played an integral part in getting the company up and running and kept helping me with stuff I was bad at over the years. Glad I didn't have to do everything on my own.
And lastly, thank you to YOU, followers and supporters. I still can't fathom why so many people like my silly drawings, but I'm incredibly thankful for your support and humbled by all the kind words you've said to me over the years. I would have never continued for this long without you all. I really don't have the words to express my gratitude. It was my absolute privilege to entertain you each and every week.
If you have any questions you want to ask, I'd recommend doing so in the Discord, because I don't have time to read all the comments on here and other social media platforms.
And once again, if you want to stay in touch, please follow my personal accounts (@abelhagen), I'll be there. And I'd like that, because if you do, this won't be a goodbye at all and I can finish by saying: thank you for-a reading my comics, and we'll meet again!
Love,
Abel
Comments
George Marionerd
It has been a delight and an honour to follow and patronise your comic. I have loved your content for many years now, and I wish you the best in what you choose to do next.
CaptivePlague
I think I speak for a lot of people when I say your comic have given us a great and stable headcanon about how Smash Bros exists and works outside of fights, and we can thank you a lot for that. The arc about reviving everybody especially was phenomenal and showed great care, knowledge, and respect for all the depicted series and characters. I would wish you the best, but you already shown us that you have it within you!
BlueMew
I thought this might happen. Your webcomic has always been my favourite, but I understand why you want to take a step away. Thank you for your hard work.
Christopher haney
You know I would pay 100 bucks if you put the smash comic collection for download.
Gray Fox
As cool as that would be that may draw the ire and fury of nintendo and we definitely don't want that stress on him.
Kagura Baka
I started following your work and joined your patreon two years ago after I got into Smash. I really like the love you put into the series, it made my days bright in the rough times I've had in the past. Understandable why you feel like you need to move on, hope you'll find something else you love as much but is more rewarding in the future.
Luigi Luigi
That sudden Discord DMs thing you speak of is the FBI and DHS astroturfing. This is an intense election year and all. Anyway, you don't have to justify any of your life choices either way. We all have free will at the end of the day.
GenQuin
Out of curiosity have you ever thought about putting your comics into physical print maybe start a Kickstarter?
Travis Scott
I actually can relate to this. I tried making my own WEBTOON for a year, but I got burnout and just quit. I gave up because of the stress and lack of engagement. If it’s not for you, you don’t need to waste your life on it. That’s said I’m really sad to see you go, but I’m happy and wish you nothing but the best of luck. Hopefully you’ll find something with your skills.
Swagner
Man, I'm sorry you've had to deal with some real assholes! I hope things improve for you going forward!
The Paper Prince .
Thanks for everything you've done, I've loved your comics, and wish you the very best! Just a thought, but would you consider releasing some of your already produced comics in book form? (might take multiple volumes but still), I'd certainly be willing to buy them if you did!
SoberAndStupid99
Abel, thank you so much for everything you've done. Fuck the haters. I get it, people suck. THAT SAID, 11 years, this retirement is VERY well deserved. Fair winds and following seas my friend! Thank you for the Revival arc and Christmas Warol.
Samus Aran
Also, I look forward to seeing what new and different types of comics you put out!
Samus Aran
I totally understand you needing to prioritize your mental health. Please take care of yourself!
Marsala
It sucks, but I get it. Good luck on your next journey dude!
Irum Nazir
I'm crying reading this but I understand everyone deserves the life they want so goodluck with your future but we'll miss you and your hilarious but Awesome comics ;'-C :-)
Tim Vinson
Sad day, I enjoyed your comics since I found them. But if your passion and drive for it has waned then moving on is for the best. Enjoy yourself in Japan, and best of luck on future projects.
Jon Brouse
It is gonna be sad to see this great content ended soon, but I understand your reasons. It was a great time with you all, and I wish you the best in your future endeavors. 🫡
William Arnett
I m sad to see you go, but if this is what is needed to improve your life than I don't blame you for quitting and wish you the best.
Anonymous Monkey
well that came out of left field....imagine the next time we see your name it's in shounen jump or whatever else they got over japan XD
Keenan Daniel Regner
I became a patron around the start of the Sephiroth arc. I’m sad that you’re saying goodbye, but I’m glad that I was able to be a part of it. I’ll continue to enjoy your work in the time left.
Blazer66
I only just discovered your site a few weeks ago so this is a shame. Still it is your life and I wish you the best! Do we get to see who at least wins the Island ffa?
Jess
My husband and I have really enjoyed your comics over the past few years, so we're really sad you're leaving. Wishing you all the best in your future endeavors!
Tony Lui
Will you at least release the exclusive content gradually after the comic is over so that it doesn’t remain stuck on Patreon?
Suditeh
It saddes me a lot hearing that, but you gotta do what you need to be happy.
Pandocula
Awww it's sad to see you go but I understand ur decision. I have enjoy ur work since I met during Ultimate. I wish you can do more smash for probably an upcoming smash game but like I say I understand. Thank you for this incredible journey you done for us. Btw your Rabbit is so unique and cute. I guess it time to do some final chosen before the end. I wish you good luck in the future and every plans you going for. I'll gonna miss ya pal ;3
CodeBreaker
Veel succes met alles wat hierna komt, en vergeet niet, Bassie en Adriaan zijn de ultieme battle royale spelers
Matteo Sancio
<3
Issac A. Flores
I’m gonna miss your content buddy. But it’s understandable none the less. Yeah, I’m sad that we won’t see anymore comics but I’m happy at what we got anyways. Thank you for 11 years of laughs and charms. I wish you the best luck on your adventures in the future. And if you ever decide to come back, we’ll always be here for you. But until then, live the life you wanna live.
Invisible Cloud
You mentioned supporting you in the future. Will that be on this patreon profile or your alternative you mentioned in the post?
Sean Chan
Thank you for working tirelessly to get comics out with such an amazing team. I never realized how vigorous and difficult it was to come up with new concepts or ideas in such little time. The past 2 years I've been a Patreon member have been more than I could ask for. Look, I got on the wrong end with you and others on Discord recently, and want to apologize for my profanity. Sorry that I spoiled the fun and humor out of this week's comic. I'd still like to support you in your future projects and works, and also, Japan! Its such an amazing country to explore, the culture, the arts, the food; you are going to have the best time of your life there. Let the Wooden Plank Studios community know if you need anything or when your next new post comes up. We'll be rooting for you all the way.
Julia
Very sad for us but very beautiful for you! So many new opportunities! So thank you (the whole team) and I'm looking forward what you'll create in the future.
CSDX
Thank you for everything, Abel. Whatever you do after July 3rd, may you thrive forever in it.
J. C.
Sending you all the best for the new adventure you’re preparing to embark on. Thank you for all the wonderful art that you have made and for sharing your wonderful sense of humor with the world. The haters are wrong and your work has been amazing!
Pokedude14
Man, I found the comic via Gabaleth's dubs I don’t even remember how long ago and have been looking forward to each one every Friday. (And I never noticed a decline in quality. If anything it just kept getting better) While I understand, it's still a bit of a shock, like when BiTF announced its ending. Good luck on whatever you do in the future
Carlos Hooper
I completely understand your choice man I’m gonna miss this series it actually how I got a new passion for video games I wasn’t that into them when I was a kid but thanks to you I started to love and play video games more thank for the stories man but could you maybe reschedule the final comic to following week the day it ends is on my birthday
Giggy the Lobster
We'll miss the comic obviously but honestly fair.
Gil Galindo Bucio
I respect your decision. Thank you for your hard work and the fun comics. I'm starting following your accounts. Greetings from Mexico.
Pags
Thank you for your work! To me there was no decline in the quality of work, so I want you to know I appreciated the content you provided to us. I hoped for this to last as long as possible, but understand your reasoning for stopping. Good luck on your future endeavors!
ironic_badger
Thank you for all you've made for us! Looking forward to the next chapter of your comic art. All the best!
Jose C
It's been a fun ride. Thanks for it.
Tyler
We love you
Lord Circe
Lots of love to you, and wishing you the best, especially in regards to your upcoming year in Japan. I am sure it will be an amazing experience!
Peter Passalacqua
You've provided us with so much content over your career. I personally thank you on behalf of all of your fans, and I wish you luck on your future.
Levi
I joined when the thirsty Daisy parts came in the comics, no shame lol. But it was bound to happen, tyvm for what you do. I'm looking forward to new endeavors.
The Wesinator
Dang, this is tough. I subscribed about a year ago for Pokémonday, and that’s given me something to look forward to at the start of every week. But I’ve been enjoying your comics ever since the Sephiroth comic where he sits at the shirtless table showed up in my Instagram feed. I’m really gonna miss this content, but I don’t mind saying goodbye. Cause as someone who’s also struggling with where his future is going, I really hope everything works out for you.
Heavy Blues
All good things have to come to an end, I suppose. Best of luck to you.
Zach Rhodes
I’ll miss these comics, but I wish you well in your next endeavors. If you could find some way to assemble the Smash comics in a physical format, I would totally buy!
Danielle Stout
Thank you so much for your comic over the years. The Arc where Sephiroth killed everyone was my favorite. Good luck in the next chapter of your life!
Christopher Williams
So I don't comment much (or everywhere for that matter) but I would like to say thank you for your work. Seen your stuff since the Pokemon Sun and Moon days and you have made great strides and improvements in putting smiles, humor, gaming references, lewd thoughts, and love into the community. For the web comics themselves, ignore the haters/nitpickers since it's just a what-if/parody. I already know of handful gaming web comics, I won't mention, that depict their characters with more inaccuracy to their original source. Your stuff is fine, even better.
Blindboiexe
Wish you the best of luck! Thank you for making these awesome comics
Kingofsouls
Hugs
GainingGamer
You could always keep the studio title and post your own characters and such that you actually wanna do there instead of keeping a schedule
Monet4Nakama
Thank you so much for 11 years with funny skits and engaging comics, you may be gone soon, but you will not be forgotten
BenjaMan64
Thanks for all the memories, we understand your reasons for ending it here. Sorry if some of us at times caused you grief at times. May your future projects be successful, and we hope you discover that one thing that you truly enjoy and feel passionate about.
Alan-Michael White
Hey can we use your fakemons in romhacks? I want to get a bunch of people to let people use fakemon in gba rom hacks to improve flavor. Also will you be releasing patreon extras to the public?
D A
Thanks for making all the comics, they always put a smile on my face.
Jack Max
A shame, but the content here is awesome and is deserving of a break. Thanks for all the cool stuff made.
SeedersPhD
It's been a damn good run, thanks for all you've given us over the years! Can't wait to see how the comic wraps up and glad we'll still hear from ya on your personal accounts. Best of luck out there!!! 💕
Tejayes
You're making the best decision for yourself for sure. We as fans of artists and creatives also need to understand just how much work goes into making such high-quality content on a regular basis. You're exiting on a high note for sure, and I wish you all the best!
Zas
It's been a fun ride loved your comics all the best and know we had a great time.
The GAG Reflex
Thank you for all of the wonderful art and stories, you've been an inspiration for as long as I can remember, I wish you good luck on you're future ventures and thank you again for all you've done.
gamerdonate26
It was fun while it lasted. I really enjoyed these comics a lot. Thank you for the amazing times with these comics.
Luc
A very clear and understandable decision Abel! Thank you for all the content you've been pushing out over the years. I wish you all the best and a lot of fun in Japan, and I'm curious what you'll do next! It sounds very cool and interesting, and I'm all for creative exploration :)
Russell Hale
I also hope at some point you can post all of these comics, (including bonus panels) on WEBTOON or your online site, but still sad to see you go
William DeCell
Hey you gave your comics a very good run and there are times that artist do feel they need to do something more. It’s your life and you’re in control of it. Don’t let life slip past by you. Take hold of it and do something wonderful with it.
Erich Scheidle
NOOOOO!!! Please no!!! Now there is no reason for me to stay on Patreon....
Novikous
👏Applaudes👏 You made a grand comic. Knowing when ti end it is the best. Just please don't let it become lost media.
Myrte
And fuck you Gabaleth!!!!!!
Christopher haney
I enjoyed you comics and hate to see you go. But you come first take care of yourself.
Kevin Vognar
Let me be honest: I'm really excited for you. I really feel like this is the right choice. I've always been impressed by the work you put into these comics and I enjoy that it's about characters I know and like, but I think the talent on display here is missing its chance to really shine when it's focused on fan appeal. Whatever you make I'll be excited to see it. Also: I've always loved all the tiny details that seem to go into every panel, and I bet you would make some absolutely baller children's books. The kind that kids like to pore over and discover new things with each read. Maybe that's not your thing and that's cool, but... something to think about? Good luck! Enjoy your travels! Be inspired! More important than that, be happy!
Tomerate
Your comic has been a highlight in my week for some time now. Thank you for all of it and good luck with whatever comes next.
Cameron Devera
Good luck.
Grundle
I was never really into subscription services, but the content that you guys created was something that I wanted to support. Its been a wonderful few years, I think the first comic I read from yall was in 2017, and during the pandemic these comics helped put a smile on my face. Not to mention, the crossovers that we the fans got to see of our favorite characters was something amazing. I was really happy seeing Travis Touchdown in one of the newer posts. Thank you Abel, Balthazar, and all from Wooden Plank Studios who have given us so many memorable comics :)
fictionfan0
Sad to hear, but I ain't complaining. I've really enjoyed your work. Good luck with your future.
Katie Crawford
Don't worry about us or that you're ending it!! It is bound to happen at some point for any artist and their team, especially with making comics, and I support wherever life takes you. Unfortunately, today is all about the production value and how to keep it going without listening to or caring about the people behind it. It is mentally and physically draining and I understand due to being a fellow artist. If anything it'll be a good change and just have faith in yourself that you made the right choice for your sanity. lol It's been fun reading the comics. I came in around the time Sephiroth was announced in Smash, and I've been reading it all since. Good luck in your endeavors and you all got this! Good luck!
Jordan Ortiz
That's understandable and you have been doing a fantastic job on all of your ideas and comics. I hope to see you again someday in whatever medium you follow but if not then I hope you take care and enjoy your time exploring yourself.
Russell Hale
I most started really reading the comics when you did Pokémon Scarlet arc, I found it hilarious and very cool how most of the plot would have been solved with those characters, but still I love the work you did, and I’m sorry to see this comic end, but I wish you the best of luck with your future projects
OmegaArts13
Well, best wishes for the future!
Miguel Angel Perez
Best of luck. You were amazing with your arts.
Frozen Flames
It's sad to hear that one of my favorite content creators will be bringing their work to an end soon, but if you feel that it's time for the curtain call than that's just how it is. Thank you for the years of top-notch comics and stories, they've been a joy and inspiration throughout. Wherever your life takes you after the Studios shut their doors, I hope that you find something every bit as fulfilling and enjoyable as what you've given us.
DemiGodzillaZ
So…where does this leave the Super Smash Bros comics?
Maurice
I only joined this year and found about you last year but I was fucking Loving it. Little bit sad but its best to stop on a good Note and with a bang instead of just stoping a series. You did great and I am Sure you will do amazin what ever you will do next. Im looking forward to it
Tolis
Wow. That was... unexpected.i am incredibly sad to see you go.i have been reading your comics for years and always loved them but I completely understand where you are coming from. Maybe someday in the future you will decide to come back but if you don't that's completely understandable.you deserve to live your life after all.i wish you the best
lChronosl
Hey mate, don't worry about us. Thanks for explaining everything. You should do the best for you. And good luck on your future endeavors.
TP Rules
I’m going to miss you! I wasn’t here for so long but I’m happy for being here for these amazing comics.
Excelsius
I wish you all the best, take care, and I hope things work out!
Joral
Wasn't here for too long but I'm grateful for all that you did. Best of luck wherever you go 🖐
Maurice Brown
I wish you the best
Edson Espinosa
Thank you for this bro, it was an awesome time, good luck with your plans
Sephylon
I was not a patron for a long time, but I really enjoyed it. Thank you very much for all that you have done!
Robert Mirhady
Thank you for all your hard work making content we love to read.
Firestorm blade
Aw… aw man… no more? But… good luck. ^^
Jake Lyde
God speed dude. Thanks for the ride, you’ve been awesome!!
Bella Lee
Abel, I wasn’t a patron for long, but I’ve found so much joy in your posts. The community you’ve established here and on Discord feels like an online home to me. Thank you for so many memories and best wishes on your next chapter in life! 💜
