Twitch is working at becoming the mecca for live streaming content, particularly in the realm of esports, and after an incredible successful 2018 year, the streaming platform is focusing in on which trends are driving viewer engagement.
For now, it seems that the driving force is actually Battle Royale games such as Apex Legends and Fortnite.
“Battle Royale games are highly competitive and easy to follow. They translate very well to Twitch,” Justin Dellario, head of esports at Twitch, said, during an interview with The Esports Observer. “Twitch viewers thrive on live, shared moments and there is no shortage of that spontaneity in Battle Royale games.
“Best of all, Battle Royale games are simple – fight to be the last one standing – so nobody is left in the dark when they see a best play or big win.”
Twitch is also big on community, which remains a primary focus moving forward.
“That’s what today’s young audiences crave: the ability to interact and even influence what they watch. Twitch gives them that opportunity to do so with their fellow fans, their community,” said Dellario.
“People watch Twitch for shared moments, something to enjoy with like-minded people. That’s no different than sports fans gathering at a bar or a friend’s living room to watch a game. How people interact with content and content creators on Twitch builds a live, shared, interactive viewing experience that provides that exact atmosphere from the comfort of wherever you are watching from. That’s what we call multiplayer entertainment – unique, live, unpredictable experiences created by the shared interactions of millions.”
“It’s important to note that while viewer rewards play a part in driving viewership, they also play a part in driving engagement and play time,” Dellario said. “They cause players to return to the game to use the rewards, continue to have experiences that keep them tied to the game, and ultimately help drive them back to watching again to complete the loop.
“Developers recognize the need to strengthen this bond with their communities inside and outside of the game.”
You can read the full interview over at The Esports Observer.
