Twitch cracks down on ‘sexually suggestive’ streamers

Sex sells. It’s an old adage that has proven remarkably effective over the years, and an idea that has been adopted by advertising firms, TV shows, movies and the new digital age of game-streaming. After all, who needs to be factually relevant or entertaining when a pretty face and some flesh can help hide a pointless and irrelevant online ego? And no, I’m not jealous of the fact that I’m devoid of either looks or charm. Moving on, Twitch is cracking down on topless streamers so put your damn shirt back on.

The online streaming service have slapped some new changes into their rules of conduct, chief of which is a new no shirt no service rule. It’s a clause that is going to hit several channels particularly hard, as they’ve been notching up views in the past by either dressing in suggestive clothing or hardly any fabrics at all. In other words, it’s been distracting from what Twitch stands for (Gaming and absurd community Pokemon streams), with the general community not being a fan of this trend which was last seen during the infamous reign of terror implemented by YouTube Re:ladies. Here’s the full update from Twitch:

Dress…appropriately Nerds are sexy, and you’re all magnificent, beautiful creatures, but let’s try and keep this about the games, shall we? Wearing no clothing or sexually suggestive clothing – including lingerie, swimsuits, pasties, and undergarments — is prohibited, as well as any full nude torsos, which applies to both male and female broadcasters. You may have a great six-pack, but that’s better shared on the beach during a 2-on-2 volleyball game blasting “Playing with the Boys.” We sell t-shirts, and those are always acceptable. #Kappa

By the way, #Kappa is Twitch code for sarcasm. I have to say, I’m with Twitch on this one. Twitchbait like this doesn’t do the channel any favours, and could land them in hot water for allowing such content to be unregulated when there are children about. Won’t somebody please think of the children?

That, and this new rule has completely scuppered my channel plans for my own topless show. Well played Twitch, well played. Now what must I do with this mankini?

Last Updated: October 28, 2014