US popular culture in the mirror of video game industry conventions

Abstract

Video game culture is one of the most dynamically developed forms of modern popular culture. Over the past 10 years, the number of communities that represent certain areas has grown rapidly. Being in direct connection with film industry, literature and music the video game culture has occupied a new segment that requires detailed research. New opportunities of online communication have transformed the traditional understanding of gaming culture. Social segment identifies as gamers. This kind of culture can be used to spread a social message using human interactions. It should be noted that in a comprehensive sense, this problem covers the interaction with computer and algorithm art, artmedia, demoscene, cybernetic and digital art, evolutionary and generative art, new media, systems art and other areas which are represented in PC, VR, Console, Handheld, Tabletop. Communities of gamers, as well as game developers have created and promoting quite recognizable festivals and conventions which are described in this article. Games and game-related merchandise by Sony Interactive Entertainment – PlayStation Experience; BlizzCon by Blizzard Entertainment with their major franchises: Overwatch, Warcraft, StarCraft, Heroes of the Storm et al; general video gaming and video game streaming – TwitchCon convention; RTX conventions by Rooster Teeth; Penny Arcade Expo as gaming culture festivals with their PAX Arena, LAN Party, eSports tournament and Omegathon. This article does not describe the US comic con conventions that carry much more content than the focus on video games, such as San Diego Comic-Con International, New York Comic Con et al. Gamers have developed specific communication languages and rituals, they spread their culture on gaming conventions and discussion websites that create a distinct virtual space. An important part of video game culture is the activity of gamers on YouTube, gaming channels are very popular, this is confirmed by millions of subscribers. Post-dynamic structure of changes was formed in all streams of public life during the growth of the pandemic. COVID-19 is accelerating existing trends and indicate future transformations in the video game industry.