Communicative Appropriation of Digital Sports

In collaboration with the University of Agder in Norway and Manchester Metropolitan University in England, we are conducting a trinational research project focused on communicative patterns in esports. Specifically, we analyze the complete chat logs from the "BLAST.tv Paris Major 2023" Counter-Strike tournament.

Our research primarily examines viewer interactions with each other and their attempts to engage players, teams, casters, organizers, and developers. We aim to understand the dynamics surrounding how pivotal game moments are identified, discussed, and evaluated. Additionally, we are studying expressions of personal revelation, identity formation, competence demonstration, and expertise among the spectators. This extends to understanding the written manifestations of star admiration and their underlying foundations.

Ultimately, our goal is to understand the empathetic feedback loops between the participants during digitally-enhanced live events. This insight will help pinpoint communicative opportunities and requirements for meaning-making. By doing so, we hope to develop new mediation formats for the domain and amplify the societal appreciation of esports, along with its cultural and communicative practices.