Affinity Spaces

Affinity Spaces in Gaming 

Because of the simple nature of gaming, there are numerous examples of affinity spaces in gaming. Gaming communities are well known for their extremely diverse communities and audiences.

Discord

Discord is a communication platform that was primarily designed for gamers. Discord features voice chat, text chat, video chat, and community building tools. Discord operates on a server-based model where users can create and join servers based on their interests and communities. Discord servers also offer roles and moderation, allowing communities to build levels of authority among themselves. Many discord servers are also used for personal use with friends when gaming. 

"Discord is the 'home base' where you and your fans come together and connect. There's no limit when it comes to structuring your server on Discord, so build it with your unique needs in mind" (Discord).

Reddit

Reddit is a social media platform that is used for many different types of news, discussion, community, etc. Reddit relies heavily on its user interaction as it is ran by subcommunities or "subreddits" that are created by the users and for the users. Like Discord, Reddit operates with communities that are guided to create roles and moderation. There's just about anything that has its own subreddit. Many gamers use Reddit for open discussion about a certain game, news for games, and simply a complaint forum.

 "Reddit is a network of communities where people can dive into their interests, hobbies and passions. There's a community for whatever you're interested in" (Reddit).

Twitch

Twitch is a popular live streaming platform that primarily features video games, esports, and creative content. Twitch allows users to broadcast their gameplay live to an audience, interact with viewers through its chat, and build communities around shared interests. Many popular Twitch streamers have gained their ticket to fame through live streaming them gaming popular video games. Twitch also supports live stream events where competitions within video games take place. Like Discord and Reddit, Twitch offers users to create roles and moderation within the chat because what is the human experience without some form of hierarchy.

"Twitch is where millions of people come together live every day to chat, interact, and make their own entertainment together" (Twitch).

“About.” Twitch.Tv, www.twitch.tv/p/en/about/. Accessed 3 Apr. 2024.

Reddit - Dive into Anything, www.reddit.com/. Accessed 4 Apr. 2024.

“What Is Discord?” Discord, discord.com/creators/what-is-discord. Accessed 3 Apr. 2024.