Heisei otaku culture emerged during the Heisei era and was primarily centered around subcultures such as anime, manga, video games, and light novels. Its key characteristics included: (a) otaku generally being seen as socially unpopular, (b) tightly knit, highly engaged and relatively closed off communities (c) communication mainly taking place on platforms like 2channel and Nico Nico Douga, which led to the creation of many internet slang terms, and (d) self-expression often done through formats like Utattemita (cover song videos) and MAD (fan-made video edits).
In contrast, Reiwa otaku culture, which emerged in the Reiwa era, has become more integrated into mainstream pop culture. Notable features include: (a) otaku now holding a more socially accepted status, (b) more opportunities to interact with favorite creators or idols (oshi) through social media and fan events, and (c)communities being flooded with more casual participants.