Y'know, since I started uploading Daniel here I've gotten a ton of awesome new readers, and this was the first webcomic forum I've been to that was full of nice, open-minded people that hasn't turned to a bunch of snippy a-holes (yet). XD
As the forum gets more people I expect it to change, but gosh it's getting harder and harder to defend Tapas as a website now that it's all about those behind a pay wall, and I used to kinda try. XD I realize they can't work like Webtoon since THEY have the equivalent of Google behind them, but maybe Tapas should consider looking at the free uploaded comics who become popular as they do instead of only going by the people who submit to them or they have personally found and decided to use as their special babies. XP That would be better than sweeping the popular freebies completely under the rug, hoping they're not as noticed as your main babes.
EDIT: Or heck, if making tons more popular comics into Premium ones isn't an option, then show off Patreon pages for popular comics on the main page or something. Just, y'know, try to show the love for the big freebies somehow! =P
Even if they don't fix up the layout, I'd still probably stay here since I already have a fanbase here and leaving wouldn't really benefit me much, but yeah, if it stays like this then newcomers are either going to turn away or be screwed from the beginning, no matter the quality of the comic. And when people are allowed to upload their own written works, will they get any consideration from Tapas if their story becomes popular? Heck, will it even be possible for a freebie written work to be noticed at all here?
Basically, yeah, gettin' way too hard to defend Tapas as it is. XD
Also, if this site is really about independent creators, then you should embrace your community aspect; your forums...don't you think? Put that link back in an obvious spot! XP