The idea of people watching someone play a video game for hours or listening to their responses to chat is not an appealing use of time when you say it out loud. Yet, it is a facet of entertainment that has captivated a large audience. Many streamers gain an audience through their personalities and fun gameplay that make for calming background noise or a way to unwind after a long day. However, one aspect of this seemingly innocent pastime that often gets overlooked is how the streamers themselves can impact viewers’ perspectives on large issues.
Streaming is a form of media that can tackle all sorts of topics, though some genres are more forthcoming than others. Political streams are exactly what they sound like, often filled with faces that push radical stances and like to react to controversial videos or rant about something said on X (Twitter). Streamers who dedicate themselves to gaming make for a more laid-back form of viewing, but the thoughts and opinions of the streamer pop through the veil every once in a while.
Streamers can do whatever they want on their channels, but their thoughts on politics are based on a lifestyle that can’t easily be replicated. It’s a dream for many to play video games for a living, but it is not a reality for most people. It’s reminiscent of many actors and directors in Hollywood, who live in a bubble of wealth and think their thoughts on political issues hold weight. The only difference is that large streamers convey intentionally or not that they are just like the rest of us, which makes people think of them as being relatable.
It raises concerns that the next generation of voters and political voices are being inspired by people who don’t have a full grasp of the issues. Sometimes, it only takes a step back to realize that our environment affects us and that not everyone is as relatable as they seem.
