How to stay connected while social distancing

Photo courtesy of iStock / gorodenkoff

Let gaming bring you together

Streaming development company StreamElements reported a 10 percent increase in viewership on Twitch on March 14 over the previous weekend. Gamers are on to something. This popular streaming platform creates a place for people to virtually “hang out” and chat while playing (or watching others play) just about any video game you can imagine.

“When we were kids, we took turns with the controller, offering our siblings or friends advice or commentary as they played,” says Twitch Director of Community and Creator Marketing Erin Wayne. “Twitch allows you to do that – but with friends and gamers around the globe. Gaming has always offered an opportunity for people to escape the real world for a while, and online gaming allows people to do that together.”

The platform has evolved beyond gaming, as well. In the past few weeks alone, Formula 1 drivers have faced off against gamers in a grand prix, Willie Nelson streamed a live show and a pair of students created a “Corona Madness” tournament to replace March Madness. 

Discord, a free voice and text chat app, offers another social distancing alternative to LAN parties or casual gaming get-togethers. This platform is primarily focused on audio, so you can chat with your buddies without leaving your game. And according to Gabe Madway, VP of Communications, the platform extends far beyond gaming.

“Discord’s audience is much broader, with interests ranging from soccer to fashion design, from book clubs to faith organizations to LGTBQ groups,” Madway explains. “Discord is the place where millions of people come together to talk, which couldn’t be more important right now.”

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