Twitch has established itself as the leading player in live gaming coverage, but it’s not the only thing drawing people back on a daily basis. As the platform’s content has diversified beyond esports, the interactions between streamers and viewers have made into a hub for community and discussion.

Once perceived as an anti-social pursuit, gaming now offers people a way to connect with peers around the world through streaming, forums, and social media. How do these diverse communities go beyond gameplay to support individuals in their search for escapism and creative expression?

Ex-US veterans are being recommended gaming as a therapeutic tool to help improve their physical and mental wellbeing. As society’s growing interest in wellbeing continues to provide greater openness to alternative therapy treatments, gaming’s social and physical benefits are being explored.

Once maligned as anti-social and addictive, gaming is being seen in a different light due to the COVID-19 crisis. As the pandemic forces large parts of the world into quarantine, the WHO has acknowledged the activity as an important method of social connection.