Popular VTubers have harshly criticized Twitch over a new rule that imposes restrictions on streamers' appearances. The rule now applies not only to regular content creators but also to their digital avatars, which directly affects VTubers. For instance, deep necklines and bare thighs can no longer be shown during live streams, even if they're animated.
Twitch says the new rule is meant to level the playing field for all creators. However, many VTubers strongly disagree. They argue that creating a new digital avatar is much more complicated than a regular streamer simply switching to less revealing clothing. Changing digital designs takes more time and often requires significant financial investment in hiring artists.
Some VTubers have started trolling Twitch over a new rule. For example, LithiaVeyTuber created a piece for a 2D costume that she dubbed the VTuber Chastity Belt (complete with the Twitch logo on the belt!) and encouraged anyone to use it to avoid attracting the platform’s admins.
Got hips? Expooooosed hips?
— Lithia Vey ✟ V-Artist ✟ vgen comms open! (@LithiaVeyTuber) October 8, 2024
Hide 'em away from Twitch's TOS with the ?????? ???????? ????! ?? Comes in 4 separate parts for ease of arrangement on your model! Featuring a stylish Twitch padlock so you'll never forget who stole your bare hips from you.… pic.twitter.com/DxahIXzIdp
On social media, some VTubers have claimed that Twitch seems to have it out for them and is trying to push them over to YouTube. However, there’s no evidence so far that any VTubers on Twitch have actually faced penalties or consequences due to these new rules.
Currently, YouTube significantly outpaces Twitch in the number of popular VTubers, dominated by Japanese streamers from agencies like NIJISANJI and hololive. While Twitch is home to its own roster of popular VTubers, one of its biggest stars, ironmouse from VShojo, recently grabbed headlines by launching a massive subathon on September 1. She didn’t just make waves: she broke records, surpassing the previous all-time subscription record set by Kai Cenat that had held strong for a year and a half.
VTubers are virtual streamers who use animated characters — often in anime style — to engage with their audience in real time. These characters can be created using 3D or 2D graphics, with their movements and facial expressions tracked by specialized software. VTubing gained popularity on platforms like YouTube and Twitch, where virtual characters stream games, chat with viewers, and participate in various entertaining activities. Many popular VTubers draw thousands of viewers with their charisma, creativity, and original content. This phenomenon blends elements of anime, gaming culture, and streaming, and it continues to grow in popularity worldwide.
Each quarter, VTuber viewership rises by 3-8%, making this segment of live streaming one of the fastest-growing areas in the industry.
Read also: VTubers Q2 2024 report — industry keeps growing, new leader emerges
