Okay, I'm going to make this quick.

I LOVE the custom pet overlay feature.

But one of my custom overlays was rejected this week, because it was an inanimate object. It's clearly stated in the rules that a pet's custom overlay cannot be an inanimate object, which I completely forgot while uploading. But my pet is an Aenoid, which is a plant-inspired pet. So, his character is a tree. Which is technically an inanimate object, which is why his custom overlay was rejected.

And the rule completely makes sense. BUT I AM SO BUMMED OUT. D8

It's not like the tree represents his character. It's literally his character. He is a tree.

A tree without a custom overlay. B(

Some pings, because I'm sad:

thats some serious crappiness there, would it be possible to maybe make it like a Pocahontas grandmother like tree?

If you wanted to argue about it, trees are animate objects. Sure it doesn't move freely, but it is alive, it grows, and it can move slightly. If the rules are simply "no inanimate objects" and trees are not allowed, I'd request the rules be clarified.

I thought about some different ways to have the overlay modified to qualify, but then it starts to alter the character itself too much. S:

I considered taking it up with staff, but I'm not sure I have a lot of ground here. I might gather the gumption to file a ticket, as an Aenoid is a plant and a tree is a plant, so I feel like a custom overlay for an Aenoid should, in turn, be a plant. And therefore acceptable as a custom overlay.

BUT I DON'T WANT TO MAKE A BIG STINK AND LOOK LIKE A JERK. D8

yeah, truthfully its kinda shitty that plants are considered inanimate (i have a plant pet idea too) cuz they are living, inanimate to me is more like... a chair

I'd argue about it because I love arguing over semantics, and it would probably result in clearer rules in the future :p the definition of inanimate is unliving - like a rock. To me, I think it boils down to being alive AND having a face. I think that is what they want.

Yes! A chair, or a lamp.

And then it made me think about the Nostalgic pets with custom overlays. They are technically toys and trinkets, which are more inanimate than trees in my opinion. I think that pets that are toys and pets that are living things should qualify. Right?

Haha, I think you're right! I think they are looking for alive with a face, specifically.

But maybe I'll file a ticket after all. Maybe they'll reconsider my custom overlay in the end.

Or at least clarify the rules.

Yeah at least get a clarification, because I think you could successfully argue that trees are animate, but I doubt they'll change their mind. Worst case scenario is you put a face on your tree, even if it's a subtle face. I like how it looks though :)

they should, and even the Dilemma is a plushie more or less, i mean whats the point of having pets that are based off plants if you dont allow people some freedom with it?

and

I filed a ticket! I'll let you folks know what happens. o:

Good luck! :)

please do and good luck

Whoop, I saw your comment, but I have a terrible time responding on my phone! Currently in Japan and I didn't bring my laptop lol.

And yea, have to argue that a tree is technically not an inanimate object. Hopefully you'll get positive results from your ticket, but if not, I'll gladly redraw the icon/overlay for you!

I'm also curious about the response you'll get, because I agree that plants and inanimate objects like chairs are completely different. This should be a special case where you get to use your overlay, at least.

Hey, everyone! Here is the response I received from the staff:

Frank will just have to be a pet without a custom overlay. If I change the overlay to include a face and arms, it draws too far away from his character. :c

in·an·i·mate in?an?m?t/ adjective adjective: inanimate

not alive, especially not in the manner of animals and humans.
"inanimate objects like stones"
    showing no sign of life; lifeless.
    "he was completely inanimate, and it was difficult to see if he was breathing"
    synonyms:	lifeless, insentient, without life, inorganic; More

that one word really bothers me lol. but I'm pretty sure they just mean it doesn't have a face.

Aw man, sorry to hear that verdict! Maybe they'll be more specific next time. Good luck to you and Frank. :(

well shit... guess ill have to review Zombify which kinda throws off the whole damned theme to the pet and it freaking sucks for your pet :c

hopefully you can figure something out

It bothers me, too, but they're not willing to budge here. I think you're right, though: it comes down to the overlay having an actual face.

Thank you! It will be okay.

Oh, no! What is his overlay?

mutanty venus flytrap thing i dont have it drawn out yet but my idea probably has to be scrapped or lessened in seriousness