The Dark Side of Being a VTuber
The following is an opinion piece, and does not reflect the views or sentiments of AnimeFanatika. Shiro shares his experiences on being a VTuber and the lessons he’s learned.
Let's start: What is a VTuber?
A VTuber, short for Virtual YouTuber, is an online entertainer who uses a digital avatar, often anime-inspired,powered by motion capture or animation software. Popular on platforms like YouTube and Twitch, VTubers livestream games, sing, chat, or perform skits, blending virtual identity with real-time interaction to captivate global audiences.
Disclaimer: The following video contains foul language, viewer’s discretion is advised.
“Being a professional content creator is harder than a regular job,” is a common joke that, unfortunately, isn’t far from reality, especially for Professional VTubers.
So, if you’re an aspiring VTuber hoping to make a name for yourself, my advice is simple: don’t.
VTubing is a lonely profession.
Content creators who dedicate substantial time online, such as VTubers, may struggle to maintain close relationships beyond their immediate family. The demanding nature of the work, characterised by long hours, irregular schedules, and the constant need to generate new content, can impede opportunities for socialising and cultivating friendships.
During periods of success, this isolation might be tolerable. The thrill of audience building, the gratification of creative endeavours, and positive feedback from fans can mitigate feelings of loneliness. However, when challenges arise—be it a mental health crisis, creative stagnation, or personal setbacks—the absence of a robust support system can be profoundly detrimental.
In these difficult times, the lack of close friends who can provide emotional support, practical assistance, and perspective can intensify feelings of isolation and despair. It is during these moments that the true consequences of prioritising a virtual life over real-world connections become painfully evident.
VTubers face a lot of pressure.
The landscape of VTubing is a dynamic and demanding arena, characterised by an insatiable appetite for fresh and captivating content.
This constant pressure to innovate originates from the inherent nature of the platform itself, where audience engagement and retention are intrinsically tied to a consistent output of new and stimulating material. The rapid pace of the digital environment, combined with the perpetually shifting trends and the evolving expectations of viewers, necessitates that VTubers continuously adapt and diversify their content offerings to stay ahead of the curve and sustain their viewership base.
Staying relevant in the VTubing sphere requires more than just churning out videos; it demands a keen understanding of audience preferences, an ability to anticipate emerging trends, and a willingness to experiment with new formats and ideas. The VTubers who thrive are those who can consistently deliver content that is not only entertaining, but also resonates with their target audience on a personal and emotional level.
I took a calculated risk and used my years of real-life experience in jewellery to use as a gimmick for my VTuber journey.
The VTubing industry is rife with scammers
Being an independent VTuber is tough! You don’t have the backup of an agency, so you’re on your own when it comes to finding and working with visual artists, managers, and merchandise agencies. It’s like navigating a minefield – the VTuber community has its fair share of shady characters who might try to scam you, break contracts, or steal your work.
On the other hand, agency VTubers have it easier. Their agency acts like a bodyguard, handling all those external relationships and making sure they work with trustworthy people. Plus, they have legal teams to look over contracts and protect their interests. This means VTubers can focus on what they do best – making awesome content and connecting with their audience – without the stress of dealing with the business side of things.
However, being part of a VTuber agency is often not a significant improvement. While agencies can provide resources and support, such as equipment, software, and training, they also take a significant cut of a VTuber’s earnings. Additionally, agencies may have strict contracts that limit a VTuber’s creative control and freedom. Some agencies may also prioritize profit over the well-being of their talents, leading to burnout and exploitation.
Furthermore, competition within agencies can be fierce, making it difficult for VTubers to stand out and gain a following. In some cases, the pressure to meet agency expectations and maintain a certain level of popularity can lead to mental health issues and a loss of passion for the craft.
You’re only one mistake away from total ruin.
As a VTuber, your online presence is constantly under scrutiny. Every word you utter, every action you take, and every piece of content you create can be meticulously analyzed and dissected by your audience and others. This heightened level of attention means that you must be mindful of your online behaviour and the potential consequences of your actions.
Remember that anything you say or do online can be taken out of context, misinterpreted, or used against you. It’s important to think carefully before you post anything and to be aware of how your words and actions might be perceived by others. Additionally, be mindful of the potential for your content to be shared and spread without your consent. Once something is posted online, it can be difficult to control where it goes and who sees it.
And you can forget about romance, especially if you’re female. The moment they find out about any relationships, engagement or marriage, your ‘adoring audience’ will turn on you.
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