The vibrant city of Rotterdam recently played host to TwitchCon 2024, an event that brought together thousands of dedicated streamers and fans from around the globe. This biannual gathering, organized by the popular streaming platform Twitch, showcased the incredible diversity and creativity of its community, which boasts a staggering 30 million daily users.
As attendees flooded into the Rotterdam Ahoy convention center, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement and anticipation. The event featured a variety of activities, including panels, gaming tournaments, and meet-and-greets with beloved streamers. Among the notable figures present was Welsh streamer Connor Colquhoun, known as CDawgVA, who poignantly remarked, “You’re making the Truman Show. Just no one else is part of it.” This statement encapsulated the essence of TwitchCon, where countless individuals share their lives and experiences through live streaming.
At TwitchCon, the concept of In Real Life (IRL) streaming took center stage. Attendees navigated a maze of live broadcasts, each sharing their unique perspectives and experiences. The event provided a rare opportunity for fans to connect with their favorite streamers and fellow community members in person. Many attendees, like a young streamer I encountered on the Eurostar to Rotterdam, were embarking on their first solo trips abroad, driven by the desire to meet online friends face-to-face.
Since its inception in 2007, Twitch has evolved dramatically. Originally launched as Justin.tv, a platform where entrepreneur Justin Kan streamed his life 24/7, it quickly transitioned into a gaming-centric platform by 2011. The creation of Twitch marked a significant turning point in the way gaming content was consumed, fostering a new culture around streaming and community interaction.
The first TwitchCon took place in San Francisco in 2015, and since then, the event has grown exponentially. Now held twice a year, the convention alternates between North America and Europe, with Rotterdam serving as the host city for 2024 and 2025. This year’s event highlighted the importance of archiving and documenting the ever-expanding world of streaming, which has become a significant part of modern screen culture.
As I made my way to the convention center, I couldn’t help but notice the myriad of TwitchCon-related streams being broadcast on my phone. From a 160km bike ride to Rotterdam to a casual sandwich-eating session watched by over 2,000 viewers, the Twitch app served as a gateway to alternative experiences of the convention. This digital platform allowed fans to engage with the event even if they couldn’t attend in person.
During the opening ceremony, Twitch CEO Dan Clancy unveiled an exciting new version of the Twitch app, exclusively available for TwitchCon attendees. This innovative update promises to enhance user experience and engagement, reflecting the platform’s commitment to evolving alongside its community.
The convention also featured a range of panels and workshops, where industry experts and popular streamers shared insights on various topics, from content creation to community building. Attendees had the chance to learn about the latest trends in streaming and gaming, further enriching their understanding of this dynamic industry.
One of the highlights of TwitchCon 2024 was the emphasis on inclusivity and diversity within the streaming community. Many panels focused on representation in gaming and streaming, addressing the importance of creating a welcoming environment for all individuals, regardless of their background. This commitment to inclusivity resonated with attendees, fostering a sense of belonging among participants.
Cosplay also played a significant role at this year’s TwitchCon, with many attendees showcasing their elaborate costumes inspired by their favorite games and streamers. The vibrant display of creativity added to the festive atmosphere, as fans celebrated their shared passions through artistic expression.
As the event unfolded, it became clear that TwitchCon is more than just a convention; it’s a celebration of the streaming culture that has captured the hearts of millions worldwide. The connections made at TwitchCon extend beyond the event itself, as attendees forge friendships and collaborations that will shape the future of streaming.
Overall, TwitchCon 2024 in Rotterdam was a testament to the growth and evolution of the streaming community. With its rich history and promising future, Twitch continues to redefine the landscape of entertainment, bringing people together through shared experiences and passions.
