I’ve watched some here and there, but having to try to catch them when they stream has put me too much in the mind of old tv and catching shows when they air. Watching the recording afterward is maybe good for some white noise, but it’s clearly not the intended experience I think.
I think parasocial relationships are a big part of it
Yup, this is a huge part of the draw. People like to feel like they’re in the same social circle and class as their favorite streamers
For the most part, they probably are. It’s just the top ~5% that are actually making decent money from it.
Though, I’ve noticed that already having money and comfort is the starting point for some streamers. Because they have the luxury of being able to do whatever they want without consequence.