This presentation explores how YouTube functions as a social platform for community building within VTuber fandoms, with a particular focus on Nijisanji.
Hi Yeo Xin! That’s a very interesting topic to talk about. I’ve always been curious about the VTuber community since it became popular somewhere back in 2021 but I never really explored the fandom that much.
Question 1:
You touched on participatory culture, and I’m curious how fans are able to expand on the community being more recognisable to others? The first time I came across a VTuber profile, I actually thought it’s just a fictional character from a show, until I found out that they actually talk to ‘fans’. That’s when I explored a bit on what VTuber is about, and it’s intriguing. So, how does the community form a connection between other fans and the creator themselves, as I find it would be different compared to a real person, in a sense of developing intimacy.
Question 2:
Expanding on the affordance that you mentioned on YouTube features, do you think there would be a difference in engagement and popularity with VTubers (who use digital avatars) and actual person videos back before live streaming was a thing? Let’s say somewhere in 2011, when the live stream was still newly developed and lacks the interactive features that we have today. Do you think VTubers would fare and become as big as it is today (with less developed features)? How will the community evolve and create meaningful engagement? As in how will the community formation differ and form without relying on features such as comment sections, emoji reaction.
I imagine that it would be something like watching animation shows on TV, but I’m curious how the interaction between fans and creators or between fandom would develop. As far as I know, the part that makes VTubers unique is that they rely on real-time performances to connect with the fans and that means live sessions are important.
Question 3:
I came across a video of fans ‘meet and greet’ with one of the popular VTuber (not quite sure who they are specifically). I find it quite interesting that it’s just a fan to screen interaction instead. I felt like it would have been the same as watching their videos on your phone, there are interesting discussions on this as well. Although I understand that it’s to keep the creator’s anonymity and safety, but I’m curious what your thoughts are on this and if you could change something about the ‘meet and greet’, how would you improve the interactions between fans and creator? Does that expand on the ‘interactive experience’ for the community to feel belonged and recognised? Do you think it makes a difference?
I’m really looking forward to hearing what your thoughts are to these, and I would love to discuss further on this topic with you soon!
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