Many media observers began noting towards the end of 2020 that podcasts were beginning to be replaced by other audio and video media forms, and that trend is predicted to continue deep into 2021.
This is not to say that the podcast as we know it is obsolete, but what it does show is that digital media trends can change almost as quickly as the weather.
One of the genres of content creation that is eating into podcast territory is that of live streaming, where individuals from around the world document their online gaming exploits on platforms such as Twitch, YouTube, and Facebook Gaming, to name but a few.
People increasingly want to see the faces and reactions of their favorite podcasters rather just hearing their dulcet tones and turns of phrase
Mobile Technology and Screen Quality Drives Thirst for Sound and Image
One of the main drivers behind this trend is that mobile technology has come such a long way that there are no longer any barriers to including video content, in real time, alongside audio output.
This is evidenced in the huge rise of podcasts that now take place via platforms like YouTube, which were once the domain of video-specific content but have now diversified, as audiences feel a closer connection to podcasters whose facial expressions and reactions they can see with their own eyes.
Improvements in mobile data networks, the dropping cost of said data, and the screen quality that many mobile devices are now capable of, means that increasingly people want and expect all their senses to be engaged.
Less Editing and Equipment Mean More Streamers Coming OnlineÂ
Another interesting factor that is propelling new content creators towards this media form is the fact that in many ways creating a stream is easier than piecing together a podcast.
By operating live at all times, streamers are less reliant on expensive editing software and live more in the moment, which gives the viewer the sense they are almost conversing with the streamer in question, just as they would with a friend or colleague.
There are now plenty of articles online that list the limited amounts of software and hardware that any budding streamer must amass. Surprisingly, much of this equipment is exactly what some of the biggest Esports streamers in the business still use to this day, including the likes of Lex Veldhuis, ZLaner, and Spraggy. This equipment list that people need to start streaming basically boils down to: a good internet connection, a microphone, a webcam, software that creates overlays and alerts, and plenty of passion and drive.
Ultimately it is the latter two points that sets Esports streams apart and is increasingly having them outperform podcasts in their field.
Content consumers increasingly expect to see their heroes’ every twitch and flinch on screen
Packed Schedules Mean Audiences Do Not Get Distracted
Because of the time it takes to piece together a coherent podcast episode, most of them release new content on a weekly or monthly basis.
The issue with this is that in the consumer’s downtime away from the pod, they can have their head turned by competing podcasts or other media forms.
This problem is done away with by live streams, as most popular Esports streamers will adhere to a strict schedule that encapsulates hours of live content at a time, over the course of four or five days per week. Online communities have been built around such consistent content output, as people tune in just as they would to check in with a friend or neighbor.
Support Model Delivers for Content Creators
Finally, there is the issue of funding, which for many podcasters is a constant struggle as they attempt to tap dwindling revenue streams.
Many live streamers have no such issues, because their followers donate to their channels in return for exclusive sets of emojis, special chat function privileges, and even for access to imaginary club houses and performance centers, such as Dr. Disrespect’s Champions Club, which exists only in the imaginations of those who inhabit it. Weird? Yes, it is. But it is proving to be a financial model that podcasters are scrambling to replicate.
In conclusion, the rise of live streaming in the world of Esports is changing the game when it comes to digital media trends. With mobile technology allowing for better video and audio quality, audiences are increasingly expecting all of their senses to be engaged. As you have already read on this page, it is also easier to create a broadcast than to assemble a podcast piece by piece, while relying less on expensive editing software and paying more attention to being in the present moment. Additionally, live streams offer consistent content output, which builds online communities around content creators. Lastly, the funding model for live streamers is proving to be more lucrative, with followers donating to channels for exclusive perks. All of these factors are contributing to the growing popularity of live streams, making them the new Esports podcasts. To learn even more visit this page.
