The Great Exodus: Tabletop Creators Flock to Bluesky Post-Election

In a significant shift in the social media landscape, numerous tabletop creators and fans are abandoning the Elon Musk-owned platform X (formerly Twitter) in favor of emerging alternatives like Bluesky. This migration is largely prompted by dissatisfaction with the current direction and policies of X, which have diverged sharply from the values of many within the tabletop gaming community.

Once seen as a vibrant digital town square, X has experienced a dramatic transformation since Musk's acquisition for a staggering $44 billion in October 2022. The platform's atmosphere has shifted for the worse, as it underwent massive layoffs—80% of its workforce—and implemented a paid verification system. Moreover, moderation processes have been weakened, resulting in an alarming rise in hate speech and misinformation, a trend that many users find disturbing. After the recent US elections, reports indicated that over 115,000 users had deactivated their accounts by mid-November, seeking refuge in platforms that prioritize safety and respectful discourse.

Bluesky has emerged as a beacon of hope for these disenfranchised users. Launched in early 2023, the platform's user base skyrocketed from 9 million to an astonishing 21.2 million by the time of this report, attracting approximately eight new users each second. This growth includes many prominent figures from the tabletop arena who are eager to rekindle relationships with their audiences in a more conducive environment.

A standout feature of Bluesky is its absence of a centralized algorithm that prioritizes engagement through sensational content. Instead, users can create “feeds” to curate posts around specific topics they care about. This unique approach allows for a more meaningful engagement with content, rather than the divisive tactics observed on X. Customizable “starter packs” enable users to aggregate accounts relevant to their interests, simplifying the discovery of quality creators and fostering community growth.

However, the platform isn't without its drawbacks. As Bluesky gains traction, the potential for misuse of its discovery tools to target marginalized voices remains a concern. Nevertheless, Bluesky’s robust, if not perfect, moderation capabilities offer a reassuring alternative to the chaotic environment found on X.

Notably, this migration to Bluesky encompasses a broad spectrum of the tabletop ecosystem. Established publishers like Paizo and Kobold Press, as well as digital platforms such as D&D Beyond and DriveThruRPG, have joined this movement. Key personalities in the industry, including notable players like Aabria Iyengar, Matt Colville, Chris Perkins, and the beloved cast of Critical Role, are also making the switch.

The long-term consequences of this mass migration remain uncertain. However, many creators are optimistic about finding a supportive community on Bluesky, especially in light of the growing polarization and concerns regarding authoritarian tendencies within the current political landscape. As this platform continues to expand, it remains to be seen whether it can achieve the sense of community that early Twitter provided—a coveted space for creativity and collaboration among tabletop enthusiasts. As they say, "Where the skies are bluer, you might just discover your next adventure!"