In Chapter 3 of How Games Move Us, Isbister talks a lot about communal emotions, and the way we feel when we are merely in the presence of others who are playing games and showing emotions while doing so. I think there is no better proof of the way emotions of competition and excitement can be transmitted (even infectious) than eSports.
Esports exists because of this phenomenon. People go to huge, loud arenas, and feel attached and excited in the heat of competition, even though they are not actually playing. Much work is given to facilitate an environment in which the excitement of the players can transmit to the spectators. However, even in smaller competitive environments can these emotions be felt. I’ve certainly been to smaller, local tournaments or even just informal tournaments with friends where I don’t play a single game but the feel the excitement and joy of playing.
Another phenomenon that exists because of this transfer of emotions are Let’s Play videos, or LPs. Initially, I found the concept of LP videos to be strange and unappealing. Why would I watch someone else play through and experience a game, when I can just play it myself? And although I am not a huge watcher of such videos, I definitely now see the entertainment and fun in watching them. You feel the emotions of the player, and just be being in the same space of play as the LPer, you feel like you are at play as well. Certainly for a ravenous gamer, with a never-ending list of games they want to experience, the appeal of being able to get the experience of a game vicariously and easily has a strong appeal.