France Bans English Gaming Words Including "Esports" & "Streamer"
French officials earlier this week passed legislation that would ban the use of certain modern English words and terms related to video games and esports. This decision has been made amidst the growing popularity of streaming and competitive gaming, something that is well-evidenced by landmark moves like Snoop Dogg's joining of FaZe Clan.
Although video game content and related events have been increasing in popularity over the past few years, things like esports competitions and streaming are not without their restrictions. Twitch famously cracked down on the infamous boom in hot tub streams, wherein streamers would carefully walk the line of the platform's content guidelines. When it comes to the competitive realm, there are generally rules against the use of certain language, such as threats, alongside clear-cut restrictions about cheating during matches. Violating the rules of any competitive or streaming platform will often result in lengthy or even permanent bans. Of course, streamers are also beholden to the laws of their local government, with China recently banning Elden Ring on streaming platforms.
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The French government has also decided to increase its involvement in the world of high-profile gaming by banning certain terms and words, as explained by a recent article from The Guardian. To preserve the French language against what is being called "degradation" by way of English influence, French officials from the Ministry of Culture and other authorities now require official government documents to replace terms like "pro-gamer" with "joueur professionnel." Terms like "streamer" and "esports" must also be replaced with "joueur-animateur en direct"
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