Why is it Called Rule 63?
Rule 63 is an internet meme stating that for every fictional character, there exists a gender-swapped counterpart. It's not an official rule, but rather a playful observation about the prevalence of gender-bending interpretations in fan works.
The exact origin of Rule 63 is uncertain, but it solidified as an internet meme within online fan communities. Sources suggest it originated from the observation that many fictional characters have been reimagined with the opposite gender—a phenomenon particularly popular in anime, manga, and other fandoms. This practice manifests in various forms, including:
- Fan art: Illustrating characters with switched genders.
- Fan fiction: Writing stories featuring gender-bent characters.
- Cosplay: Dressing up as gender-swapped versions of characters.
The term's popularity is fueled by the significant number of examples where such gender-swapped interpretations exist, making Rule 63 a common and easily understood phrase in online communities. The core idea is a simple yet effective summary of this common creative practice.
While the precise origins are obscure, the meme's widespread adoption highlights a compelling aspect of fan culture: the creative reimagining and expansion of existing fictional universes. Rule 63 encapsulates the vibrant and playful nature of fan participation in shaping the fictional worlds they love. Many examples can be easily found online across various fan communities, including those dedicated to anime, manga, video games, and more.
Examples of Rule 63 in Action
Many examples across various fandoms illustrate Rule 63:
- A male superhero might be reimagined as a female superhero with similar powers and personality traits.
- A female anime character might be depicted as a male character in fan art or fanfiction.
- A popular video game character could have a gender-bent version created by fans.
The wide application of Rule 63 underscores its influence and acceptance within various online communities.
