The world of esports is no longer niche; it’s a mainstream form of entertainment and people are paying attention to the players behind the profession. Leaning into the growing influence of gamers, Gucci is swapping out its typical influencers for a new kind of digital icon: esports stars.

What happens when the world’s most popular video game joins forces with the fastest-growing social network? Turns out, a dance competition.Fortniteand TikTok's emote contest is giving Gen Zers a chance to use their creativity to be immortalised in the game and earn digital fame.

As lockdown measures have kept people cooped up at home, video gaming has emerged as a vital source of entertainment and connection for Australians across age groups. How might the pandemic influence the way people engage with this leisure pursuit (and tech more broadly) in the future?

Faced with months of lockdown, life simulator video games have surged in popularity, offering escapism, catharsis, and a supportive community. But The Sims Spark’d – a reality TV show that blurs the line between players and in-game avatars – confronts the uglier elements of gaming culture.