How Twitch Encourages Engagement and Benefitted Us During Our Isolation

Covid-19 was the surprise party we never asked for. It has impacted us tremendously and has changed our way of living. Before the virus, going out and hanging with friends and family was common. Now that, depending on your state, or country, restrictions are set in place.

This has, like any topical issue, has created a discussion on both sides. To some, the coronavirus is less damaging than the common flu. Whatever your argument may be, one thing has remained the same, we have been advised by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and our government to isolate.

Isolation has been a lonely time for many of us. Fortunately, with social media and the rise of streaming giants such as Netflix, Hulu, Disney Plus, and Amazon Video has allowed us to catch up on our favorite shows and movies.

Data provided to The Observer has shown these platforms have garnered more than 4 Million global users.

That is incredible.

Those are not the only streaming platforms currently thriving. Twitch, a platform that allows gamers to stream and play their favorite games has advantages that should not go unnoticed.

In our times of isolation, joining a community is important for our mental health and sense of belonging.

Twitch, a partner of Amazon, allows streamers to bond and build relationships with their audience. This gives it an advantage over Netflix and Hulu by enabling streamers to produce content that will allow the retention of the audience and bring in new viewers.

Here is what helps make Twitch stand out.

Community

Twitch is an excellent platform for building a long-lasting community. Other outlets such as YouTube have a chat interface integrated but Twitch’s chat system encourages real-time conversation.

DrGluon, a primarily Sims 4 streamer, has a platform that encourages and engages his audience through interactive challenges.

There is a popular challenge in The Sims community known as “Rags to Riches” where a Sim begins with zero simoleons (their in-game currency) and must work up to riches. What DrGluon has done has implemented a wheel system into the challenge that spins: good, bad, and random.

When DrGluon gains a new subscriber he spins the wheel immediately making that subscriber feel important from the start.

This interactive system creates an inclusive and engaging environment.

Another popular challenge is the “100 baby challenge” where a sim must have 100 babies. Through his chat, he gives subscribers an opportunity to name one of the babies.

These are just a few examples of how DrGluon has made his channel a place for inclusivity and engagement.

YouTubers have recognized the importance of Twitch’s ability to engage.

In regards to The Sims 4; YouTubers such as Lilsimsie, Plumbella, Clare Siobhan, James Turner, and Vixella have brought their YouTube following to Twitch. On Twitch, YouTubers are not restricted to 10–15-minute videos. They can continue to create stories while communicating with their audience.

Popular YouTuber DanTDM, who have over 23 Million subscribers has begun streaming over on Twitch. By streaming on Twitch, Dan can transfer his massive following from YouTube over to Twitch which brings more eyes to the streaming service.

DanTDM has 648K followers on Twitch, almost a million. With Dan’s assessability and light-hearted demeanor, that number will only grow.

This is a win-win for all involved.

In conclusion,

During our times of isolation Twitch’s platform has allowed us to join and be apart of a community. Twitch offers a variety of content besides video games that are welcoming to all users. Thanks to Twitch, we no longer need to talk to ourselves in the mirror or our animal companions.

Are you apart of a Twitch community? Let me know!

Zach Watson is a content writer, poet, and occasional humor writer. He hopes you enjoyed this article.