Digital Gaming Communities: the Determinants of Quasi-Communities Shaping on “Boosty”

This study examines the Boosty platform and its user community, with a particular focus on socio-demographic characteristics and the role of social capital. The initial hypothesis that Boosty represents a quasi-community was analyzed, revealing that users join the platform not only for exclusive content but also for active interaction with other participants. Socio-demographic analysis showed that the main audience consists of young men aged 18 to 24. Data analysis also demonstrated that open and public forms of interaction, such as likes and comments, positively affect user satisfaction, whereas personal messages are associated with lower satisfaction levels. Key determinants of community membership include age, gender differences, motivation and interests, social connections and engagement, and social capital. The study highlights the importance of a comprehensive approach to understanding the mechanisms of formation and functioning of online communities.