About a sixth of all mentions discussed specific majors as well as independent studios’ community efforts of the aid organizations. HumbleBundle as an example, a Californian digital storefront for video games, organized a special gamers sale in which all proceeds went to support various charities for Ukrainians.
Other gaming developers showed their support too, by using their substantial financial clout to organize their respective communities of patrons for aid, rallying other players for donations, and by raising political awareness for Ukraine. Several popular streamers even created their own private organizations, offering their followers and subscribers marathon stream sessions in return for donations. One outstanding mention from a Ukrainian gamer mentioned that while she is streaming her gameplay occurred during an aerial bombing raid.
Data analysis of the conversations showed that the main theme, as shown by 80% of all conversations, focused on the concern and care for the Ukrainian people. Gamers expressed their sentiment by flocking to online channels and showcasing their warm condolences for Ukraine.
A somewhat surprising result indicated that the conflict’s sentiment was not unilaterally in support of Ukraine. Around 25% of all player mentions expressed criticism over an unfair negative stigma towards Russian gamers and civilians, referring to those who didn’t support their government’s actions. Specific complaints centered around Western gaming companies, such as Steam and Sony Interactive, canceling Russian gamers’ pre-orders and transactions.
Criticism from around 7% of all mentions surrounded hypocrisy matters, as there were players that criticized their other colleagues for “cherry-picking” this conflict while not landing a hand in support of other global wars. Finally, there were other players using hashtags such as “# stopRussia” and “# gamersunite”, openly targeting and shaming those companies which did not sever their ties with Russia over the invasion.
Affogata tracks and analyzes real-time market trends from all over the open web, based on millions of online conversations. The data analyzed also helps figure out how people react to world events and depicts the public’s sentiment and voice.