Hololive Production, Japan’s most popular VTuber agency, has announced a new event that has sparked intense discussion on social media. The “Hololive Meet&Greet 2024” will take place on September 15-16, 2024 at Tokyo International Forum Hall B7 in Tokyo. What caught the attention of many is the cost of 7,700 yen (approximately US$ 53) for the opportunity to speak for one minute with one of the Hololive members.

The event includes two types of special activities: the “Ichi-Oshi Talk,” which allows fans to have a one-minute face-to-face conversation with their favorite VTuber, and the “Monitoring Talk,” where VTubers will host live broadcasts from the event. Each “Ichi-Oshi Talk” session comes with a postcard with a message reproduced from the VTuber.

Fan reaction was mixed, with comments ranging from enthusiasm to disbelief:

• «Didn't the previous event cost less than 5,000 yen? That became expensive, could it be because of the appreciation of the yen?».
• «It's quite reasonable, if I was a Hololive fan I would go too».
• «It's much better than sending a 10,000 yen super chat and not knowing if it will be read.».
• «This seems like a healthy business somehow».
• «The perception of value depends on who pays. A great product is rubbish if you're not interested.».
• «Won't they call the most popular VTubers?».
• «Hello, nice to meet you, [name] and this takes about 30 seconds».
• «Without including insurance, consultation with a psychiatrist costs the same».
• «It's an excessive price, but criticizing how people spend their money gets you nowhere. Leave them alone, if you have the heart.».
• «The cast is very mediocre. 7700 yen so it's almost a scam».

Despite criticism about the cost, many fans are willing to pay for this unique opportunity. For some, interacting with their favorite VTuber, even for a minute, is a dream come true. The emotional connection that these virtual characters generate with their followers is very strong.and events like this allow fans to feel a special closeness, even if they can't directly see the person behind the avatar.

The VTuber industry has proven to be a powerful force in digital entertainment., and events like the “Hololive Meet&Greet 2024” are proof of this. Despite the controversy over the cost, demand remains high, reflecting the dedication and enthusiasm of fans for their favorite VTubers.

Source: Otakomu