Who They Are and Why Gen Z and Alpha Can't Get Enough of Them

Hi, I'm Punni the Artist. Recently, I keep seeing these cute animated characters everywhere... and the number of their shows is growing fast!

So who are these mysterious heroes? Maybe you're one of them?

In this post:

1. What is a VTuber and where did the name come from?

2. When and why did VTubers appear?

3. What do VTubers actually do in their videos and livestreams?

4. Why do audiences love them? Are they the new online hangouts?

5. What scandals have involved VTubers recently? Any money drama?

6. Top 5 Most Popular VTubers in 2025

Honestly, I wasn’t into the VTuber scene myself. I didn’t know who they were, and I’ve never been to one of their streams. But so many people love them — I had to investigate!

1. What Is a VTuber? The Origin of the Term

Before VTubers came along, there were Vocaloids — 3D virtual performers launched in Japan. The most famous is Hatsune Miku, the blue-haired pop icon.

At their core, Vocaloids were software-based singers powered by Yamaha’s Vocaloid engine, first released in 2003. These virtual idols performed live at real concerts with holographic projections on stage — and the crowd went wild.

Eventually, even K-pop stars adopted virtual concert technology. But Vocaloids, as software, didn’t have true emotion or spontaneity. Enter the VTuber: real people behind animated avatars.

Anyone with $1,000 to invest in a Live2D model and animations could become a VTuber and launch their own show. Are you thinking about trying it yourself?

VTubers (Virtual YouTubers) are streamers and video creators who appear as digital characters. They produce all kinds of content — from gameplay and music to "Just Chatting" streams and virtual concerts. Gen Z and Alpha fans love VTubers for their interactivity, emotional connection, and safe spaces for self-expression.

2. When and Why Did VTubers Appear?

As we learned, VTubers emerged after Vocaloids — but with more heart. Instead of voice banks, we got real people hosting digital parties, chatting about games, anime, and even their personal lives.

VTubers first appeared in Japan in the mid-2010s, evolving from virtual idols like Hatsune Miku and Super Sonico. The trend exploded in 2014–2015 with the rise of FaceRig and Live2D, making virtual streaming affordable and accessible.

Why did VTubers become popular?

• Anonymity and safety. Many creators — including marginalized voices — use avatars to protect their identity and express themselves freely.

• Online bullying. The internet can be brutal. People are mocked for weight, skin, or simply being different. Some brave teens pushed back — wearing what they wanted, like princess dresses or historical cosplay, reclaiming their identity.

• Tech advancements. With webcam-based face tracking and affordable software (like VSeeFace), people could stream from home using expressive avatars. And the result? More emotion and connection — through technology.

3. What Do VTubers Do in Their Streams?

VTuber content is incredibly diverse:

• Gameplay. Playthroughs, live commentary, collabs with other VTubers.

• Music and dance. Cover songs, original tracks, even full virtual concerts.

• Just Chatting. Interacting with the audience, answering questions, being a "virtual friend."

• Creative & challenge content. Cooking streams, digital drawing, "smol streams" with tiny avatars.

Each VTuber builds a community that shares their interests — like fandoms, but with real-time chats and social interaction. When people vibe with the creator, they stay… and often donate to support the content and community.

4. Why Gen Z and Alpha Love VTubers

• Parasocial connection. Viewers feel emotionally close to the VTuber, like a friend. Personal messages and interactive chats create a virtual hangout vibe.

• Safe identity. Avatars provide freedom to be yourself — without fear of judgment.

• Content variety. From anime fandom to cozy chats, there’s something for everyone.

• Innovation. VTubers push creative boundaries with AR events and immersive digital concerts.

5. Recent VTuber Scandals & Financial Drama

• Selen Tatsuki (Nijisanji EN) — In Feb 2024, Nijisanji faced backlash for firing this star VTuber without clear reason. Accusations included payment delays and internal mismanagement. Several talents went on break in protest.

• Super Chat refund chaos. In early 2025, YouTube began refunding VTuber donations (Super Chats) due to monetization bugs, affecting creators like Ricky Poppet and Cersei Soulstorm. This sparked outrage among both streamers and fans.

• Zero profit case. Independent VTuber Dokibird revealed that in 2023, despite millions of views, she earned nothing in net income.

6. Top 5 Most Popular VTubers (May 2025)

1. Gawr Gura (Hololive EN) – 4.74 million subscribers

2. Houshou Marine (Hololive JP) – 4.03 million subscribers

3. Kizuna AI (Independent) – 3.07 million subscribers

4. Filian (Mythic Talent) – 3.04 million subscribers

5. ZilverK (Independent) – 2.89 million subscribers

Final Thoughts

Many traditional anime studios and old-school YouTubers are stuck in topics that no longer resonate with Gen Z and Alpha. If they ignore what young audiences watch and talk about, their products could fade into obscurity.

As for me? Maybe I’m an old panda, but I’ll be dropping by some VTuber parties to learn what you all love — because everything I create, I create for you.

Join me in the magical comic world of Witch’s Pie! 🍰✨