Abstract
This paper explores how players perceive Fortnite streamers as influencers and how these internal perceptions shape their experience of the streamers’ videos and their
own gameplay. Fortnite is currently the most popular multi-platform free-to-play game. In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted revealing that streamers are, frst, perceived as entertainers by showcasing high-level gameplay. Gamers consume this content because it is perceived as fun, relaxing, and an engaging way to learn. Streamers are, second, an inspiration to play by inspiring competition, collaboration, curiosity and commitment in gamers through their expertise in showcasing the game. Finally, gamers perceive streamers as endorsers through their videos as skins are perceived as giving social status, the battle pass is perceived to provide
rewards, skin choice is highlighted in the player’s game, and new game mechanics are promoted.
own gameplay. Fortnite is currently the most popular multi-platform free-to-play game. In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted revealing that streamers are, frst, perceived as entertainers by showcasing high-level gameplay. Gamers consume this content because it is perceived as fun, relaxing, and an engaging way to learn. Streamers are, second, an inspiration to play by inspiring competition, collaboration, curiosity and commitment in gamers through their expertise in showcasing the game. Finally, gamers perceive streamers as endorsers through their videos as skins are perceived as giving social status, the battle pass is perceived to provide
rewards, skin choice is highlighted in the player’s game, and new game mechanics are promoted.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 349-368 |
| Number of pages | 19 |
| Journal | The Computer Games Journal |
| Volume | 9 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 16 Sept 2020 |