Buzz
Witnessing the evolution of the streaming profession in Vietnam reveals the remarkable transformation of the iconic industry for the new era.
In recent years, we have witnessed the powerful resurgence of the streaming industry both in Vietnam and worldwide. Streaming has become one of the most favored and pursued careers, thanks to the modern world's internet and technological coverage, making the demand for new online entertainment essential.
The streaming profession emerged from the curiosity and fascination of a part of the younger generation but also faced certain prejudices in society.
Looking back at the first steps of the streaming industry in Vietnam
Today, the terms 'streamer' or 'livestream' are too familiar in the modern world. Streamers are individuals who perform live broadcasts for viewers through an online streaming platform that allows interaction. With just a phone connecting to the internet, you can instantly become a streamer, covering various areas like gaming, dining, entertainment, and more.
This concept is quite understandable for the modern youth, but looking back a few years, the idea of streamers was somewhat blurry for many. More than half of ten people couldn't grasp what a streamer was. For them, sitting in front of a computer screen and rambling alone all day seemed more like an autistic activity than a money-making job.
Gradually, the notion of streamers took clearer shape in Vietnam when the first ones started live broadcasting on the Talk TV platform. Among them were pioneering names and current hot streamers like Pewpew, Misthy, Trâu TV, and ViruSs.
The year 2018 marked a leap forward for the streaming industry in our country. At that time, the world witnessed the explosion of Esports, with many teams emerging and receiving significant investments from major players. Esports could compete and generate profits comparable to traditional sports. Vietnam caught up with this trend, giving rise to numerous professional Esports teams.
In addition to the demand for directly enjoying intense gaming sessions, watching others play games has become a new and increasingly popular pastime. With a massive gaming community, the electronic entertainment industry gave birth to a new profession called streamer. As livestream platforms emerged, major tech giants also joined this promising market, turning livestreaming into fertile ground for many young talents and streamers in Vietnam to flourish.
Alongside this, various game titles raced to debut, providing a springboard for streamers. Remember the time when PUBG emerged and created a global sensation. This survival game, with its solo gameplay against the world, along with novelty and excitement, quickly garnered a massive player base. Many current famous streamers also rose to success thanks to PUBG, such as Độ Mixi, ViruSs, Mèo Ú, Rambo, and others. Additionally, other popular games like CS:GO and Liên Quân Mobile also made a significant impact.
Streamer profession - an icon of the modern era and Generation Z
After an initially vague period, streamers have now surged as a new phenomenon among the youth. Apart from viewer donations, streamers can earn additional income through advertising contracts and fixed live contracts on livestream platforms.
The likes of Độ Mixi, ViruSs, and many other renowned streamers receiving tens of millions in donations from the audience after just one broadcast is no longer unfamiliar. Clips capturing ViruSs receiving a 100 million donation or Độ Mixi getting over 60 million have left everyone astonished at the streamers' staggering income. However, male streamers use donation money for charity, earning praise from fans.
Alongside the lucrative income, the fame of streamers has skyrocketed, extending even into the Vietnamese entertainment scene. Comparing follower numbers on some online platforms sometimes surpasses those of other well-known celebrities. Hot streamers like MisThy, Linh Ngọc Đàm, Độ Mixi, ViruSs, wherever they appear, attract audiences. Their reach is truly undeniable.
In addition to music, film, and comedy stars, many television gameshows choose to invite famous streamers such as ViruSs, Pew Pew, Misthy, Linh Ngọc Đàm, Cris Devil Gamer to attract more viewers. The gap in the entertainment industry seems to blur when these famous streamers share the stage with established stars in Vietnam.
Thanks to such widespread fame, many streamers have ventured into other fields like film, fashion, music, and business. For instance, Linh Ngọc Đàm with a modern, trendy fashion style has collaborated with a local brand, launching various products such as t-shirts, jackets, and backpacks. Additionally, female streamers have expanded into business, participating in short films, music videos, and gameshow programs.
ViruSs ventured into the music industry and even took on additional business responsibilities. Xemesis, MisThy, Độ Mixi, Pew Pew are involved in the food business and explore various other areas.
Alongside top names like Teacher Ba, Sparrow in the Sun, Độ Mixi..., there is a growing number of individuals pursuing the streamer profession. Whether newly emerged or less famous than their predecessors, they still enjoy stable income and high appreciation, such as the members of the Refund Gaming team and SBTC.
However, fame and substantial income come with hidden drawbacks in the streamer profession. Streamers face irregular working hours, dedicating most of their time to work and sacrificing other personal activities. Challenges include improving gaming skills, creating innovative and captivating content to retain viewers. Regardless, being a streamer is part of the entertainment industry and entails enduring pressures.
The Future of the Streamer Industry Full of Potential
The increasing number of young streamers brings another story—the saturation of the streamer profession. Amidst a forest of streamers sprouting like mushrooms, many find it challenging to build an impressive and unique personal brand.
Nevertheless, this is a booming industry in society, and if leveraged correctly, it can generate significant income. Moreover, streamers easily transmit positive energy and inspiration to society.
For young talents, all that's needed is skill, passion, charisma, and dedication to the profession. Following this smoke-free industry, there's no need to mimic or become a copy of someone else; being unique will eventually yield sweet fruits.
The journey of the streamer profession is full of ups and downs, but in return, it has given rise to many talented streamers and inspired countless individuals.
