Different worlds, realities, and people all exist in the landscape of storytelling.  Maybe you enjoy reading online comics, or sampling different works of fanfiction? How about a good novel, manga series, or even indy comics?

     What is your favorite genre?  Do you love a good fantasy full of valiant heroes and merciless overlords? How about an engaging mystery that draws you in as you follow along with the clues? Maybe you're more into high spirited science fiction or a hilarious comedy.  The bottom line is that you can find it here in Kamishibai. 

                                                  Or you can create one yourself.

     This is what Kamishibai is about.  It is a free computer based form of storytelling that has stories made by people just like you that you can download and view whenever you're in the mood for a good story. Already there are hundreds of stories out there for you to read of all types.  Kamishibai on the web specifically takes images, sound effects, music, and story text bringing them together for an uncanny form of storytelling.

     But Kamishibai isn't just for viewing, that's just the icing on the cake, because the program is also used by Kamishibai authors.  All coming from different walks of life with different stories to tell.  From the mature noir story to the light-hearted coming of age comedy we've all endeavored to write what comes to mind.  The best part about being a Kamishibai author is that you really get to know your audience and are basically assured that someone is reading what you do.  Why? Because the people reading your work just love telling stories and hearing them.

     Luckily making a Kamishibai isn't as hard as doing flash or one of those other programs and a number of different things can be done. 

 

     Maybe you'd like to create a darker and more twisted tale?  Something in another dimension or right here on Earth. Something with Vampires, Ghosts, Killers, etc?  Do you enjoy reading stories that yourself?

     Or maybe you've just been itching to finally make that fanfic you've been writing with pictures.  You could even be longing to do that for a fanfic you've just read and can't wait to get something down.  You can bring that fanfic alive with Kamishibai.  Using the music you'd like to use, the sounds you want, maybe even voice clips or voice actors if you so choose. Include your own fan characters and creations, the options are in your hands.

     For both people who think they may want to read a Kamishibai, and those who may want to create one its cool to note that there isn't just one Kamishibai player/viewer to choose from.  Each viewer is different, some may suit you more than others. All the pics shown here of players are actual size and as you can see the talent is varied.  Can't draw? Use sprites. Can't really write? Find a writer and form a partnership, maybe even start a kami making group.  Your artwork can be however you want it to be: Anime styled, Anthropomorphic, American Comic style, Cartoonish, you can even have a comic made completely in abstract water color if you want.

     Sounds intriguing doesn't it?  It hasn't even been mentioned that you can add animations to your scenes. Or that some people have even created games with multiple paths and options such as the one below? 

     But of course the focus of Kamishibai isn't supposed to be fancy drawings or who has the best music selection.  It's on making a good story be that story a series in the making or one-shot deal.  Take a look at the Kamishibai out there.  Our link section has a myriad of locations to check out concerning free stories and places with tips and tricks.  Some content and free downloads can be found right here on the site too. 

                     Take a look around and sample the world of Kamishibai here at KamiCross. 

                                                 You won't be disappointed.