Beyond Mainstream: The New Era of Gaming and Variety Streamers

In this digitalized world, we have grown up with diverse forms of entertainment; such as cinema, animated shows, social media and more. However, another widespread yet unacknowledged form of entertainment has entered the market! With millions of passionate viewers and dedicated content creators, this industry has far surpassed its predecessors in recent times and has become a cultural phenomenon. Although it has yet to secure a position of prominence in the Pakistani population, it is a sensationalized genre of entertainment around the globe. 

Gaming and Variety streaming initially started on a live streaming platform, popularly known as Twitch during the mid-2010. Later on, many social media platforms such as Youtube and Facebook caught on with the trends and adapted it as one of their channels of entertainment. 

Building Connections in the Digital Realm: 

Their popularity skyrocketed during the pandemic when the world needed a distraction from the reality around them. People sought out solace and companionship from behind the screens of their devices and streaming had become an outlet for many. Content creators on these platforms formed communities that transcended all national, linguistic and racial bounds known to man. This unbroken camaraderie amongst the streamers and their audience forged an insoluble connection in this entertainment community. It had successfully broken the 4th wall, by providing real human connectivity which no longer existed in the digital landscape. 

Mainstream Trends of Streaming: 

People who had been trapped indoors for months on end got their dose of adrenaline from watching skilled and competitive individuals excelling in what they loved and admired. Whether it be political and sports commentary, or competitive gaming; everything had a place on this platform. Streamers like Tarik, Ninja, Pokimane, Faker, Shroud, xQc entertained their communities through a variety of competitive gameplay, while internet personalities such as HasanAbi, Ludwig, Mizkif provided an uncensored commentary on world and media politics. Another emergent form of streaming is adopting the lifestyle of a Vtuber. In simpler terms, it is a form of content creation in which a virtually generated avatar or character becomes an individual’s online persona. Many use real-time motion capture technology and voice modulation, which is recognized as a real turn of the century invention. Their admirable dedication to the craft blurs the boundary between reality and digital animation. The collaborative spirit of the streaming community solidified their place in the entertainment industry. Content creators on these platforms organized events, conventions, charities, gaming competitions, podcasts to strengthen their alliances and help their communities mingle with each other. The rising popularity of E-sports as a professional career is one of the changes these efforts have brought to our world, as we know it. The immersive content and engaging gameplay far exceeded the limitations of traditional entertainment.

How Did I Discover It?  

As a young adult in her early 20’s, the pandemic had completely brought my life to a halt. I had completely exhausted my other sources of entertainment and online classes had taken the joy out of being chronically online. I had always enjoyed keeping up with my favourite internet personalities and had stumbled upon a group of streamers by mistake. They were actively streaming the much-popularized game called Among Us, every night for their viewers. The group better known as OfflineTV curated a huge fandom in the span of mere months. I discovered other content creators through them and became part of various communities around the web. Although I am in my mid 20’s now, I still manage to take out time to enjoy a bit of gaming and relax in the virtual hemisphere. 

What’s Next?  

From a niche to a mainstream form of entertainment, gaming and variety streaming has successfully revolutionized what it means to be entertaining. People have successfully monetized their hobbies and passions and curated a living out of digital engagement. The future of this interactive medium of entertainment is completely dependent on its ability to harmonize a sense of community, disregarding diverse backgrounds of its participants. If any of you have a working pc and a decent internet connection, you can too join this world of impossibilities and share your uniqueness to the world.