Streamer Spotlight: iamBrandon
It’s Halloween week, which means Twitch is inundated with streamers playing all manner of spooky horror games. The queer community’s love of horror games is something we’ve covered here on Gayming Magazine, from screaming streamers to horror heroines.
With so much attention on horror this month, it’s the perfect time for some fundraising! This year, iamBrandon again organised an annual ScareAThon with a bunch of other streamers, which raised just under $20k for Able Gamers.
Not only that, Brandon is a horror fan all year round and a passionate advocate for the black and queer communities. And it all started with Chun Li…
When and why did you start streaming?
I started steaming in late 2014. I began a gaming website called “UGRGaming.com” and Twitch happened to be one of the social platforms we had for the site. One of the staff introduced me to it and thus began history.
What games do you prefer to stream?
I am pretty known for my horror and retro game streams but I do enjoy the occasional RPG or in-depth story games. For example Life is Strange has always been one of my favorite games because you choose your own adventure.
What makes your stream unique?
I feel like every streamer feels like this but I believe I am a good person who connects with people. I was sort of an outcast when I was younger and I was able to really show my personality through streaming and make new friends.
Can you tell us a bit about the ScareAThon?
The ScareAThon is a three day charity event that was started by myself and Ravenhart three years ago. It features over 30+ streamers who are all playing horror games to raise money for the various charities we have represented. This year we’re raising money for Able Gamers, check out the stream here.
What got you into horror games?
Honestly, Twitch got me more into them. I don’t always enjoy them per se, but my viewers enjoy watching me get scared! It’s nice to have the viewers to help get me through it.
What makes a great horror game, especially one to stream?
One that doesn’t only rely on jump scares. It is truly something when a game gets its audio and atmosphere right.
How do you find being an out LGBT+streamer?
To be honest, I rarely get comments anymore about it on Twitch. On social media, I see more people being appreciative of my vocal stance on LGBT+ issues. I want to give a voice to people who may not always have that chance.
What’s your main goal as a streamer for the future?
I have plans to move away from streaming to be a gaming personality. The last few months have proved that I have more to give and I want to explore that.
What’s the best thing about being a streamer?
Being able to make someone’s day. It gives a great feeling of compassion and care that you were able to lift someone’s mood and improve their day.
What advice would you give to gaymers wanting to start streaming?
Start now, learn about moderation, and how to protect yourself. Don’t let fear or nervousness stop you.
What’s the game that first got you into gaming?
Street Fighter II was the very first game I was able to buy with my own money for my birthday. I played as Chun Li, beat the game in one sitting and was set to be a Chun Li main for life!
What’s your game of the year so far?
Life is Strange 2. After playing through the Life is Strange series, this new storyline really moved toward real life issues that people can sympathise with. I like games that don’t feel scared to push the boundaries.
To find out more about iamBrandon, catch him streaming on his Twitch channel.
Don’t forget you can vote for your Streamer Of The Year at the Gayming Mag Awards right here!
