10 Questions with AlarmingAmber: Getting to Know TikTok’s Viral Fortnite Content Creator
We catch up with Fortnite content creator AlarmingAmber to find out more about her streaming career and how it all started.
We catch up with Fortnite content creator AlarmingAmber to find out more about her streaming career and how it all started.
In this article, we’re talking to AlarmingAmber, TikTok's sensational Fortnite content creator. We'll dive deep into her gaming journey, streaming career, and the challenges and triumphs she's faced as a female content creator in the gaming world. Join me as we get to know the incredible Amber and gain insights into her world.
I’m so excited to talk to you! Tell me a bit about where it all began. When did you start gaming and how did you discover Fortnite?
Amber: I started gaming when I was really young. I started off with Roller Coaster Tycoon and Sims. Then I started playing on my brother's console. We would play like a bunch of COD zombies together and I thought, “Okay, this is getting a little fun.” And then it kind of escalated. I was playing Black Ops 3 and then all of a sudden, Fortnite came out. I was in school and some of the boys that knew that I played video games were like “Hey, bro, have you tried Fortnite yet?” And I said, “No, I haven't given it a go yet.” And they told me “You HAVE to try it.” So in 2018, I started playing Fortnite. And I just fell in love with the game.
And what made you start streaming?
Amber: My one friend that I was gaming with at the time said, “You know, you should start streaming. You're not like completely terrible and you're really outgoing.” So I started streaming in 2019 and I had three viewers starting off. Me, my brother, and my dad. Once I started, I just loved it and I couldn't really foresee myself doing anything else. It really grew from there. I started doing this thing called “Follower Fridays” where every Friday I would play with viewers.
It took me a while to take a step on the TikTok train, but it really took off when I started my random duo series. One day, I went to bed and I gained 100,000 followers overnight. It was literally insane. I never had anything like that in my entire life.
Are you still in community college or have you graduated? What motivated you to pursue streaming?
Amber: Yes, I was in community college when I started streaming. I got into the groove of it and even started making money. So, it wasn't like I graduated and had no job. I was already established in streaming, and I loved it. Instead of going for more education or a different job, I decided to go full-time with streaming.
That's a great decision. It's true, college will always be there if you decide to go back. High school can be quite overwhelming with the pressure to decide on a career. How do you view taking risks in pursuing what you love?
Amber: Absolutely. In high school, there's so much pressure to figure out your whole life, but it's okay not to have all the answers at 18. I'm a big advocate for seizing opportunities, even if they don't work out. Taking risks can lead to amazing experiences.
Your dad's advice about loving what you do is so true. When you're passionate about your work, it doesn't feel like work at all. How did your parents react to your streaming journey? What about now?
Amber: My mom doesn't quite understand it. She thinks I'm a professional player making money from gaming, lol. It doesn't bother her though. On the other hand, my dad has been my biggest supporter from the start. He loved that I was doing what I loved. He saw how happy it made me.
That's wonderful that your dad has been so supportive. It's unfortunate that not everyone has that kind of support from their parents. Moving on, how do you balance content creation with other responsibilities and social life?
Amber: Family time is crucial for me, so I make sure to schedule it in. I tend to stream in the morning and afternoon, leaving my evenings free for family or social activities. I also try to do any video editing before my streams. This way, I can enjoy my social life after without feeling overwhelmed.
That sounds like a good approach. It can be challenging to say no to social events, but setting boundaries is important for your work. Shifting gears, what are your thoughts on the current state of Fortnite? What aspects do you enjoy and what do you think could be improved?
Amber: The recent season has been the most fun I've had in Fortnite in a long time. It's brought back that old Fortnite vibe, which I really appreciate. However, I wish they'd stop adding anime skins. They don't really fit the game's style and can be distracting.
I totally get what you're saying about anime skins. They can feel out of place. Now, in the context of being a female content creator, what challenges have you faced, especially in the Fortnite community? What changes do you think could make it more welcoming for females?
Amber: Personally, I've been fortunate to not face many challenges in Fortnite. The toxicity was more pronounced when I played COD. I think having more female streamers helps. It's comforting for viewers to know they have a positive space to go to. Ultimately, having positive creators on the platform will outweigh the toxicity.
That's a great perspective. Supporting each other within the community is key. You've recently released your own Creative map. What inspired you to create an escape room map?
Amber: I've always loved playing escape rooms, and I enjoy the challenge and creativity they involve. So, I thought, why not make one myself? It was a bit of a learning curve, especially with UEFN, but the process was incredibly rewarding. I'm even considering making more maps in the future.
That's impressive, especially tackling UEFN. Your viewers are in for a treat. Looking ahead, what are some of your goals and aspirations for the next few years, both in streaming and content creation?
Amber: I'd really like to focus on growing my YouTube channel. It's been a goal of mine for a while. I want to create content that I'm passionate about, whether it's Fortnite or exploring new interests. Ultimately, I want to keep doing what I love and connect with my audience.
And there you have it, folks! Our conversation with Alarming Amber has given us a glimpse into the life behind this passionate content creator. With big dreams for the future and a love for all things gaming, Amber is undoubtedly someone to watch in the world of streaming and content creation. We can't wait to see her continue to thrive and inspire other male and female gamers alike to pursue their passions fearlessly. If you’d like to keep up to date with Amber, drop her a follow on X. And if you’d like to keep in touch with me, you can find me there as well.