Twitch, the popular video-streaming site, has altered its rules of conduct to prohibit users from appearing in a state of undress, requesting that streamers dress “appropriately”.
The new Twitch rule opens with the tried-and-tested rule of flattery:
Nerds are sexy, and you’re all magnificent, beautiful creatures, but let’s try and keep this about the games, shall we?
The statement then goes on to outlaw “sexually suggestive” clothing and “pasties” – the nipple covers, not the cheese and onion variety:
Wearing no clothing or sexually suggestive clothing - including lingerie, swimsuits, pasties, and undergarments – will most likely get you suspended, 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.”
Perhaps the most refreshing thing about Twitch’s new rule is that both male and female torsos are banned from appearing on webcams, a level playing field which often does not apply IRL.
The company then goes on to offer the following handy tips to streamers struggling with not being naked:
• If it’s unbearably hot where you are, and you happen to have your shirt off (gents) or a bikini top (ladies), then just crop the webcam to your face.
• If your lighting is hot, get fluorescent bulbs to reduce the heat. Xbox One Kinect doesn’t zoom? Move it closer to you, or turn it off. There is always a workaround.
• We sell T-shirts, and those are always acceptable. #Kappa
Twitch has become hugely popular since its launch in 2011, largely due to the gaming community live-streaming playthroughs.
The company was acquired by Amazon.com in August this year for just under $1bn, after long speculation it would be purchased by Google.
