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I spent 10 years building a sci-fi universe alone. No team. No AI. Just grit
r/SideProject
7/10/2025
Content Summary
Darko Markovic (DarMar), a concept designer with industry experience, spent 10 years creating INSIDE44 - a 544-page hybrid graphic novel/encyclopedia. The project faced publisher rejections due to its scale and uniqueness. The creator self-published using premium POD services, built a 27k Instagram following for marketing, and produced a documentary. Key challenges included high production costs (15% loss per sale) and distribution logistics. The project combines artistic vision with direct-to-consumer approach, aiming for viral potential through its documentary.
Opinion Analysis
Mainstream opinions praise the creator's dedication and artistic integrity. Users admire the 10-year commitment and quality achieved without AI/team support. Key debates focus on:
- Pricing strategy: Some question the $200 price point's accessibility vs others see it as justified for premium quality
- Distribution efficiency: Concerns about 15% per-unit losses and long-term sustainability
- Marketing approach: While Instagram success is noted, comments suggest expanding to other platforms
- Product format: Discussions emerge about balancing physical books with digital alternatives Controversial viewpoint: One comment implies the project's scale may limit commercial viability compared to traditional publishing models
SAAS TOOLS
| SaaS | URL | Category | Features/Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| KDP (Kindle Direct Publishing) | https://kdp.amazon.com | Publishing | Print-on-demand service mentioned as inadequate for premium quality books |
| POD service (unspecified) | N/A | Printing | Used for premium-quality book printing, alternative to KDP |
USER NEEDS
Pain Points:
- Traditional publishers rejecting large/risky projects
- High costs and logistical challenges in premium book printing
- Difficulty reaching target audience for niche products
- Significant financial losses per sale due to operational constraints
Problems to Solve:
- Finding reliable premium printing solutions
- Effective marketing for niche creative projects
- Building sustainable distribution channels
- Maintaining quality while managing production costs
Potential Solutions:
- Using specialized POD services instead of KDP
- Leveraging social media (Instagram) for audience building
- Creating documentary content for viral marketing potential
- Direct-to-consumer sales model bypassing traditional publishers
GROWTH FACTORS
Effective Strategies:
- Long-term audience building through social media (27k Instagram followers)
- Creating ancillary content (documentary) to enhance product narrative
Marketing & Acquisition:
- Instagram as primary marketing channel
- Viral potential of documentary content
- Direct customer engagement via AMA sessions
Monetization & Product:
- Premium pricing strategy ($200 price point)
- Focus on unique product differentiation (544-page hybrid format)
- Acceptance of initial financial losses for market entry
User Engagement:
- Transparent communication through detailed FAQ
- Community building via Reddit AMA and social media interactions
- Offering previews to drive purchase decisions