Spoilhopping

Spoilhopping is a term used within online communities to describe the act of deliberately revealing plot points or key narrative elements of a piece of media, such as a book, movie, or video game, to others who have not yet experienced it. This is often done with the intention of spoiling the experience for those who wish to discover the story organically. The term itself is a portmanteau of "spoiler" and "gatehopping," suggesting a transgression or unwanted intrusion into a protected narrative space.

The motivations behind spoilhopping can vary widely. Some individuals may engage in it due to a desire for attention or to provoke a reaction from others. Others might feel a sense of power or amusement in disrupting someone's anticipation. In some instances, it can stem from a misunderstanding of social cues or a lack of empathy for others' desire to experience a story without prior knowledge. It is generally considered poor etiquette within fandoms and online forums. Many platforms and communities have rules against unsolicited spoilers, and users often employ spoiler tags or warnings to prevent accidental disclosure. The act of spoilhopping is often met with criticism and can lead to a user being ostracized or banned from certain online spaces.