Welcome to 2024, where gaming influencers are not just playing the game — they’re changing it. With over 65% of U.S. citizens engaging in gaming for at least an hour a week, the landscape is ripe with gaming creators making their mark.
This year, brands are poised to invest a staggering $7.14 billion in influencer marketing, a notable 15.9% increase from 2023. This surge emphasizes the vital role of creators, especially those shaping YouTube Gaming, in driving the future of gaming entertainment.
As we explore gaming’s ever-changing world, we’re not just chasing past trends; we’re looking ahead to who’s next. So grab your controllers, adjust your headsets, and discover who made it to Viral Nation’s top gaming influencers of 2024.
Top 20 Gaming Influencers to Follow in 2024
We recently dived headfirst into the gaming world, looking at 10 video game marketing tactics to level up your business. We’re continuing the trend by spotlighting gaming talents who are at the top of their game or set to make 2024 their breakout year.
These gaming creators, already making significant waves in the social media space, present an exciting opportunity for brands looking to connect with passionate, engaged audiences across various gaming niches.
chocoTaco
The eSports Conqueror
Location: Toronto
Followers: 1.6M on YouTube, 1.3M on Twitch, 369K on Instagram, 101K on X
Jacob’s electrifying victory in a Fortnite tournament or his League of Legends strategy guide not only demonstrate his gaming skills but also showcase his analytical acumen. But his journey is far from one-dimensional. He made a name for himself by streaming PUBG over six years ago, and now he’s a versatile content creator diving into various PC games, including titles like DayZ and American Truck Simulator.
His involvement in brand campaigns with renowned companies like Hyundai, Doritos, Turbo Tax, and CLIF Bar is a testament to his growing influence in the gaming industry. Jacob is one of the few streamers openly discussing the pressing issue of mental health challenges in the content creator realm, underlining the importance of taking breaks and maintaining a balanced schedule to counteract burnout.
theRadBrad
The Walkthrough Wizard
Location: Atlanta
Followers: 13.5M on YouTube
Bradley Colburn, better known as theRadBrad, stands as a titan in the YouTube gaming community, celebrated for his engaging video game walkthroughs. Launching his channel in 2010 while in college, Colburn quickly carved out a niche with his unique blend of realistic commentary peppered with animated reactions under pressure.
Colburn’s early focus on Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 walkthroughs set the stage for his rise as a beloved gaming commentator. He’s recognized as the “king of the YouTube walkthrough” by FMV Magazine and highlighted by Susan Wojcicki, the former CEO of YouTube, as one of the “platform’s top gaming creators.” Collaborations with industry giants like Machinima and Ubisoft, along with the launch of his own merchandise line, underscore his standing as a pivotal figure in the gaming world.
EYstreem
The Minecraft Mentor
Location: UK
Followers: 8.64M on YouTube, 1.4M on TikTok
Eystreem, crafted by the imaginative Jordan Barclay, has become a cornerstone of the Minecraft community on YouTube. His channel is a vibrant playground for young Minecraft enthusiasts, testing viral hacks, exploring meticulously designed levels by fellow players, and crafting narratives that captivate his audience.
Jordan’s long-term collaboration with HyperX headsets stands out among one-off campaigns like the one above from Sega’s Sonic the Hedgehog. His role extends beyond content creation to the community, as he actively engages with his fans through his Minecraft servers, offering them a chance to dive into adventures alongside him.
Brizzy Voices
The Virtuoso of Voice
Location: California
Followers: 2M on YouTube, 197K on Instagram
Anna Brisbin, affectionately known as Brizzy Voices, is a true gem in the world of voice acting and video game content creation. With her enchanting YouTube channel, she’s taken us on a captivating journey through her astonishing vocal talents, effortlessly impersonating our favorite animated characters and beloved celebrities. Her Overwatch character dubbing video, where she brings fans’ beloved characters to life, garnered over 3.7M views, displaying her exceptional vocal range and talent.
Armed with a solid theater performance degree from Chapman University, Anna’s passion for voice acting has seamlessly transitioned into the world of video games, where her voice breathed life into characters in Bayonetta 3, God of War: Ragnarök, Final Fantasy VII Remake, and Fallout 76.
Beaulo
The Digital Marksman
Location: Toronto
Followers: 1.4M on YouTube, 1.2M on Twitch, 555K on TikTok
If you’ve ever wondered how someone can out-frag the entire enemy team without breaking a sweat, then you’ve probably crossed paths with Beaulo, aka Jason Doty. This gaming sensation has made a name for himself in the world of Rainbow Six Siege, pulling off several jaw-dropping 1v5 ‘clutch’ victories where he single-handedly takes down an entire enemy team, blowing up social feeds. Jason’s friendly rivalry with other popular Twitch streamers, such as Shroud and KingGeorge, has led to memorable viral moments where they face off against each other.
Jason has been part of streamer houses, like the TSM Rainbow Six Siege team house with vlogs capturing the day-to-day antics of the housemates providing a glimpse into the personal lives of these popular streamers. When he’s not carrying his team (DarkZero Esports) to victory, Jason also ventures into the world of brand collaborations, sharing his preferred gaming equipment and settings to give his viewers a competitive edge.
TacticalGramma
The Sniper Grandma
Location: Los Angeles
Followers: 1.7M on TikTok
Tacticalgramma, whose real name is Michelle Statham, is a 59-year-old grandmother who has been playing video games for over 50 years. Her Call of Duty clips, amassing millions of views, exemplify her gaming prowess and charisma, captivating a broad audience. She’s living proof that in the gaming world, experience and skill know no age limits.
@tacticalgrammaThey couldnt believe I am an Auntie! #hawaiian #callofduty #warzone♬ original sound – tacticalgramma
One of her most talked-about moments was when she landed an extraordinary snipe on an enemy player, which was so impressive that it led to widespread debate about her method. Tacticalgramma is a gaming sensation who defies age stereotypes with every sharpshooter victory.
Macie Jay
The Tech Whisperer
Location: Los Angeles
Followers: 1.5M on YouTube, 1.1M on Twitch
Back in 2006, Macie Jay launched his YouTube channel; fast forward to today and he’s the internet’s cool uncle of gaming and a master of Rainbow Six Siege. With over a million viewers tuning in to witness his tactical prowess, he’s more than just a player, he’s a philosopher dissecting gaming mechanics. Straddling the line between casual play and competitive esports, Macie has taken us through the Six Invitational 2022 and beyond.
Now you’ll find him spinning tales of epic plays, sharing laughs over gaming bloopers, and delving deep into the nitty-gritty of game mechanics. With the brain to back up the brawn, his critical eye for gaming consoles has drawn in over 800K viewers, turning his channel into a beacon for gamers seeking wisdom in a sea of tech.
Xaryu
The Healthkick Gamer
Location: Toronto
Followers: 560K on Twitch, 217K on YouTube
Josh Lujan, skilled in battlegrounds as he is in the gym, is the gamer who reminds you to stretch between levels. Since launching his Twitch channel in 2013, Xaryu has drawn in a dedicated audience with his strategic gameplay and in-depth understanding of World of Warcraft. But Xaryu isn’t your average gamer – he underwent a remarkable transformation, gaining nearly 50 pounds of muscle and fuelling his hashtag movement #doyourdailies.
Now, he’s on a quest to infuse the gaming community with a healthy dose of fitness, proving that taking care of one’s health can coexist with a passion for gaming. From streaming daily at-home workouts during quarantine to authoring e-books on fitness and nutrition, Xaryu is leading by example, showing that a balanced lifestyle is not just achievable, but essential in the gaming world.
Har_fie
The Cosplay Conjuror
Location: UK
Followers: 1.4M on TikTok, 227K on Instagram
Harry Field, known as Har_fie, is a luminary in the cosplay and modeling scene, celebrated for his stunning renditions of characters from gaming and anime universes. His portrayals range from Spiderman to iconic anime figures like Vash the Stampede and Ezreal from League of Legends.
Har_fie’s influence in the cosplay community was further recognized by Electronic Arts, who collaborated with him to promote their Apex Legends Doppelgangers event, embodying the spirit of the in-game character Mirage.
@har_fieIt’s time to get Bamboozled with the New Apex Legends doppelganger event! TRAILER #ad #ApexLegends #Mirage♬ original sound – Har_Fie
Harry is a founding member of Project 4, an innovative idol group initiative by Philippine-based Tier One Entertainment that fuses the realms of gaming, anime, and music into a singular experience. His entrepreneurial spirit extends into co-founding Exobase Creative, a production company dedicated to enriching the gaming and esports landscape with live-action productions.
thejamplan
The TikTok Trailblazer
Location: Canada
Followers: 785K on TikTok
Aria Korda, better known as thejamplan, unveiled her TikTok realm in 2020, and in no time her star was on the rise. One video, where she channeled her inner Tiny Tina (a quirky video game character), went viral, racking up 1M views. From the futuristic intrigue of Detroit: Become Human to the adrenaline-pumping battles in Fortnite and the survival struggles of Project Zomboid, she’s got gaming diversity down to an art.
@thejamplan#newtalesfromtheborderlands is out now!! stream sponsored by 2K #twitchclips #borderlands♬ original sound – thejamplan
But here’s the twist that makes TheJamPlan so relatable – she’s not just about the games, she’s about living life outside of the screen. Whether it’s busting out moves to the latest chart-toppers or letting her feline friend, Tuna, steal the spotlight, her content is a delightful blend of gaming passion and everyday charm.
Element X
The Creative Crafter
Location: Toronto
Followers: 526K on YouTube
Meet Element X, the maestro of Minecraft, who’s been reeling in viewers since 2015. In the world of Minecraft, Element X is the master builder, architect, and storyteller all rolled into one. With a staggering 610 videos, his channel is a treasure trove captivating over 140M views. Blending coding and AI like a tech-savvy sorcerer, Element X brings game-changing modifications to life.
Element X draws a vibrant young audience looking for more than just gameplay – they’re there for his ingenuity, his flair for the dramatic, and a chance to see Minecraft transformed in ways only he can imagine. In the realm of YouTube gamers, he’s not just playing the game – he’s literally changing it, one video at a time.
Kai Cenat
The Cinematic Streamer
Location: Atlanta
Followers: 9M on Twitch, 8.4M on Instagram, 5.1M on YouTube, 1.7M on X
Kai Cenat has not only dominated the streaming world clinching the title of Streamer of the Year at both the 12th Streamy Awards and the 2023 Streamer Awards. His knack for blending comedy, gaming, and lifestyle content has resonated widely, leading to a record-breaking subathon in 2023 that crowned him the most-subscribed Twitch streamer. Cenat’s influence extends beyond Twitch; his debut on the music scene with Bustdown Rollie Avalanche alongside NLE Choppa showcases his multifaceted talent.
Cenat’s ventures into philanthropy, founding a non-profit for empowering underprivileged youth, and breaking into the fashion industry with Mafia Worldwide Clothing underscore his impact off-screen. His recent partnership with Nike, becoming the first streamer signed by the brand, and hosting Nicki Minaj on his stream, breaking his viewership record again, highlight his unparalleled ability to captivate and engage audiences across different platforms
TSM Reps
The Team Spirit Mascot
Location: Las Vegas
Followers: 311K on Twitch, 105K on YouTube
Step into the electrifying world of TSM Reps, the Apex Legends sensation who’s been making waves in recent years. Reps has become a household name in the gaming community, thanks to his remarkable performances in Apex Legends tournaments, including the prestigious Apex Legends Global Series. Marking a pivotal moment in his career, Jordan joined the ranks of Team SoloMid (TSM), a renowned esports powerhouse.
Living alongside fellow TSM teammates in Las Vegas, he exemplifies the close-knit bonds that can develop within the competitive gaming world. With an estimated net worth of $606K primarily from tournament winnings and streaming, Reps has also ventured into the realm of brand partnerships, courtesy of TSM’s collaborations with iconic brands like GEICO, Grubhub, Lenovo, Logitech, and MTN Dew Game Fuel.
jacksepticeye
The Irish Entertainer
Location: UK
Followers: 30.6M on YouTube, 7.9M on Instagram, 7,7M on X, 2.8M on Twitch
Seán William McLoughlin, known as jacksepticeye, has been a dominant force on YouTube since he started in 2012. Not just confined to the digital realm, McLoughlin took his charisma to live stages across Europe and the US with his How Did We Get Here and Ready Player 3 tours.
Beyond gaming, tours, and vlogs, McLoughlin’s ventures into Twitch streaming, appearances on Disney XD, and roles in mainstream films like Free Guy starring Ryan Reynolds. He’s not just about entertainment; Seán is a co-founder of the clothing brand Cloak and the owner of Top of The Mornin’ Coffee company.
Faux
The Wanderlust Gamer
Location: Houston
Followers: 296K on Twitch, 66K on YouTube
Introducing the one and only Faux, where sarcasm meets wholesomeness in the world of Twitch streaming. As a Twitch streamer, fitness enthusiast, husband, and father, Faux has been making waves in the gaming community since 2013. With over a decade of experience, he’s not just a streamer; he’s a gaming legend.
Before entering the Twitch scene, Faux proudly served in the US Army, bringing a unique perspective to his streaming career. Faux’s journey began with RuneScape way back in 2002 before his infectious charisma and undeniable gaming skills quickly earned him recognition. His viral moment came when he became the first person to snag an extremely rare Draconic Visage drop live on stream.
PewDiePie
The Retired Champion
Location: Japan / UK
Followers: 111M on YouTube, 21.3M on Instagram, 1.5M on Twitter
Felix Kjellberg, widely recognized as PewDiePie, revolutionized the YouTube landscape with his dynamic blend of Let’s Play videos, vlogs, comedy shorts, and music videos. Since launching his channel in 2010, he quickly ascended to internet stardom, becoming the most-subscribed YouTube channel by 2013 and holding the title of the most-viewed channel from 2014 to 2017.
Despite facing controversies and shifting content focus, PewDiePie’s channel remains a titan of the platform, boasting over 29.2B views. His impact extends beyond entertainment, significantly boosting sales for featured video games and mobilizing massive support for various charity drives. Named one of the world’s 100 most influential people by Time magazine in 2016, PewDiePie’s legacy is defined by his profound effect on internet culture and content creation.
Austin John Plays
The Poké-Streamer
Location: New Jersey
Followers: 2.38M on YouTube, 205K on Twitter, 101K on Twitch
In a dramatic pivot from the turntables to the digital realm, Austin made a bold leap to become a full-time YouTube content creator with the release of Pokémon Sword and Shield. This strategic shift marked a significant turning point, propelling his channel from 840K to 1.2M subscribers in just a month.
https://www.tiktok.com/@austinjohnplays/video/7308116909805931819
Navigating through the choppy waters of YouTube’s copyright restrictions, Austin refined his content strategy to keep his channel thriving. Austin taps into the pulse of his audience by tackling specific game challenges and combining this feedback data with his strategic mastery of YouTube’s algorithms to establish himself as a crucial resource for gamers.
NicsNite
The FX Guy
Followers: 2.6M on YouTube, 1.8M on TikTok
NicsNite, born Nic Suriano, takes a VFX approach to creating live-action skits based on beloved video games like Minecraft, Apex Legends, Call of Duty, and Grand Theft Auto. Suriano’s skill in weaving together engaging narratives with eye-catching special effects and green screens makes his content a go-to for fans seeking a fusion of entertainment and artistry.
@nicsniteWhat games/ actions should I do next??🤔👀 #cod #modernwarfare #apexlegends #minecraft #gta #rainbow6 #fyp #foryou #warzone #gamingskit #gaming♬ Mr. Blue Sky – Electric Light Orchestra
Beyond the laughter and special effects, NicsNite’s collaborations with high-profile brands such as Call of Duty, Taco Bell, Lenovo Legion, and Intel Corporation underscore his influence and versatility as a content creator. Suriano’s journey from launching his TikTok in August 2018 to becoming a viral sensation underscores a trajectory not just of growth but of significant impact in the digital entertainment space.
TDBarrett
The Sports Gamer
Location: Canada
Followers: 1.59M on YouTube
Brett Barrett, known as TDBarrett, launched his YouTube journey in 2014 and has since become synonymous with MLB: The Show and Madden. His adeptness at blending gameplay with deep dives into strategies and challenges and sharing glimpses of his life, from collegiate football endeavors to his marriage enriches the bond with his audience through shared experiences and passions.
From casual gamers to those entrenched in the nuances of fantasy football strategies, he dissects complex gameplay mechanics and offers a unique blend of engaging narratives. These strategies, coupled with personal anecdotes and strategic masterclasses, have fostered a vibrant community of enthusiasts, eager for Barrett’s next play-through or fantasy draft breakdown.
MrBeast Gaming – Jimmy Donaldson
The Gaming Philanthropist
Location: North Carolina
Followers: 41.9M on YouTube
MrBeast Gaming, launched in 2020, quickly transformed his viral brand into a titan of the gaming world, amassing 2B views and 16.5M subscribers in its first year. MrBeast Gaming brings a unique twist by incorporating high-stake challenges where players, his crew members, and notable YouTubers compete for hefty rewards, often reaching $10,000. This collaborative approach has not only distinguished the channel but also contributed to its explosive growth, making it one of the fastest-growing YouTube channels in history.
Originally stemming from MrBeast’s diverse content journey — from gaming to comedy, and then to challenge and donation videos — MrBeast Gaming was created to cater to the gaming interests of his vast audience. The channel stands as a significant extension of MrBeast’s digital empire, designed to fund the elaborate and philanthropic ventures on his main channel.
Make 2024 Your Year For Gaming Influencer Marketing
As we wrap up our journey through the vibrant landscape of 2024’s top video game influencers, it’s clear that the digital realm is teeming with untapped potential and groundbreaking collaborations.
Viral Nation Talent stands at the forefront as a distinguished digital talent representation agency, offering a gateway to the most extensive and varied inventory of digital influencers. Viral Nation Talent ensures influencer marketing campaigns are not just seen but felt, leaving a lasting impact in the ever-evolving world of video games.
See the transformative power of influencers in reshaping brand narratives by delving into Viral Nation success stories. These include the global reach of PUBG Mobile Star Challenge, the launch of Resident Evil 4 VR for Meta Quest 2, and Call of Duty League’s hyper-targeted influencer strategy. These narratives exemplify how innovative influencer campaigns can transcend borders and create immersive experiences.
