MELINA MÖRSDORF

„In the hallways of the Rocket Beans editorial office, you see them all the time: in photos, paintings, or depicted as galactic superheroes: Budi, Etienne, Nils – and Simon. He’s still here.

Yet in May, Rocket Beans announced that, after more than 20 years, they were parting ways with one of their founding members, Simon. For people who were interested in web videos and video games in the 2000s and 2010s, this is a big deal: The four guys are pioneers of internet television; they were among the first to ensure that “nerdy” topics like games, TV shows, and comics found a place in the German media. And they paved the way for something that today produces stars by the dozen on streaming platforms like Twitch: gaming in front of the camera and talking nonsense.

Now they’re parting ways. And fans are wondering: “What’s next?”

I have to admit that, until ZEIT online asked me, to take pictures for this piece, I had absolutely no idea who Rocket Beans even were. And when I walked into their studio and saw the passion and perfection with which they produce independent television there, I became a fan right away. Because just getting things done and making them happen, just jumping in, even when the water’s cold; that’s something I can really relate to. So, thanks for your trust⚡️