Esports Spectating Motives and Streaming Consumption: Moderating Effect of Game Genres and Live-Streaming Types

• Main Authors: Shang-Chun Ma, Kevin K. Byon, Wooyoung (William) Jang, Shang-Min Ma, Tsung-Nan Huang
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: MDPI AG 2021-04-01
• Series: Sustainability
• Subjects: esports; spectator motives; game genres; live-streaming; esports consumption behavior
• Online Access: https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/13/8/4164

Previous studies have paid little attention to spectators’ consumption behaviors and motives for watching different types of esports live-streaming and game genres. This study, therefore, investigates spectator motives and consumption behaviors based on the interaction effects of live-streaming types and game genres. Convenience sampling was conducted to collect 312 responses from Taiwanese individuals via the Professional Technology Temple. The measurement tools include the motivation scale for sport consumption, esports streaming consumption behaviors, and two moderators (i.e., game genres and live-streaming types). The moderating effects were examined using the PROCESS macro. The results showed that esports spectating motives and consumption behaviors are determined by different types of live-streaming and game genres. A matrix of esports spectator segments was developed to illustrate the findings and managerial implications. The study’s findings broaden our understanding of esports consumption behaviors and can contribute to the fast-growing esports marketing literature. In addition, the results are expected to help practitioners better segment their consumer groups to develop more tailored marketing programs.