General Submissions

Difference Engine is inspired by stories from Asia. We are committed to publishing diverse, well-written, and beautifully illustrated comics of all genres. We would love to work with writers and illustrators, both new and experienced, to contribute to the growing Southeast Asian comics community.

We accept submissions for all age groups and of all genres. Both fiction and non-fiction pitches are welcome. If you have a story to tell, we want to hear from you!

We accept:

Pitches or experimental ideas
Original unpublished graphic novels
Previously self-published comics, digital or print (Please indicate when it was previously published and through what channels)
Pitches for works that are written in the English language. Where integral to the story, the use of non-English languages in dialogue or as sound effects is welcome

Your fiction submission should contain:

50-100 word bios of each creator
Description of the target readers
One-page story synopsis including the conclusion
Character bios
Rough sketches of characters and settings (Of proposed work)
Sample comics pages (From prior work)

Your non-fiction submission should contain:

50-100 word bios of each creator
Description of the target readers
One-page proposal of topic
One-page explanation of interest in topic, relevant qualifications (including lived experience), and research done or planned
Rough sketches of art (Of proposed work)
Sample comics pages (From prior work)

Please do not send us:

Hard copies of your submission
Your script without art samples
Your illustration portfolio without a draft script
Your full script or finished comic art until we have requested for it
AI-generated content (Difference Engine reserves the right to request to view working files in cases where a submission is suspected to include AI-generated content)

Important things to note:

All pitches will be treated with the utmost confidentiality
If a pitch is successful, creators will be offered a publishing contract with DE. Creators will retain copyright of their project
Individual creators should only submit a pitch if you are able to take on both the roles of writer and illustrator (including lettering and colouring)
Group applicants should apply as a complete creative team that is able to take on all aspects of writing and illustration (including lettering and colouring)
Difference Engine will not be able to pair writers up with illustrators or vice versa