There was something about needing at to offer shows with at English versions? I didn't keep up and I kinda don't remember. If you're curious, it's in the comments here. They did end up slightly changing their policy. As far as matching goes, they let AO3 run their program and then I think there were 3 pinch hits? Not so bad. I know some challenge mods still hand match but I think most of it is done on AO3, which is so much simpler. I had to make a spreadsheet and it took forever back in the day lol

Oh that is convenient. Then you really can just go at your own pace. I saw the all_bingo cards and it is nice that you can make your own. That is smart. :D

Treating fictional characters like real people is a time old tradition on the internet, one I cannot see ending any time soon. Most people seemed to just use it as an opportunity to make jokes/memes rather than take it seriously though. And the challenge was definitely thrown together on a whim. It is a lot of work, even with the AO3 assistance.