Inktober began in 2009 as 's attempt to﷽ improve his inking skills through a month of daily illustrations. Since then, it's exploded into a worldwide phenomenon that'll fill your Twitter feed with artistic greatness. Throughout October, you've got the perfect excuse to go combing through thousands of submissions, from professional and amateur artists alike, in search of sketch-style tributes to our favorite game characters. There's a lot more to Inktober than fan art, of course, but it's still a great way to get started appreciating your friendly neighborhood social media artist. What follows are some of the best Inktober pieces we've seen in the first half of the month; be sure to follow these artists to grace your timeline with even more of their amazing work!

Metal Gear Solid 5's Venom Snake plays subway regulations like a damn fiddle

This loving tribute to Ghosts 'n Goblins was drawn by the designer of Spelunky!

Popuri from Harvest Moon 64 is a deep cut and I love it

All that's missing from this sketch of Destiny's Lord Shaxx is voice work by Lennie James

No need for a shrinking safe zone in Cat PUBG - just put out a single cardboard box

Some D&D magic items ARE pretty silly, come to think of it

There's an entire series of these adorable Fire Emblem character + dog illustrations