The live streaming world is witnessing a dramatic shift as Twitch, once the unrivaled leader, faces declining viewership and an exodus of top content creators.
In this article, we’ll dive into the factors contributing to Twitch’s decline and explore how emerging platforms are taking advantage of the changing landscape to attract streamers and viewers alike.
The Fall in Twitch Viewership & The Reasons Behind the Exodus
Twitch, once the undisputed leader in the live streaming space, has seen a significant drop in viewership since its all-time high of over 3 million average concurrent viewers in April 2021.
According to TwitchTracker, by December 2021, the platform’s average concurrent viewership had fallen to 2.5 million, and despite a brief spike in February 2022, numbers have continued to decline.
Overall, Twitch has experienced a 9.4% year-over-year decrease in both hours watched and average concurrent viewers.
The decline in Twitch viewership can be attributed to several factors, including the ongoing issue of DMCA strikes, the prevalence of hate raids, and the enticing financial incentives offered by rival platforms such as YouTube.
These challenges have led many popular streamers to seek out alternative platforms that better cater to their needs and offer a more secure environment for their content and community.
Among the notable streamers who have left Twitch are Cory “KingGothalion” Michael, Soleil “EwOk” Wheeler, Jeremy “Disguised Toast” Wang, Gonzalo “ZeRo” Barrios, and Corinna Kopf.
The Rise of Competing Platforms
As top streamers leave Twitch, they often sign exclusive deals with other platforms such as YouTube, Facebook Gaming, and previously, Mixer.
These competitors have seen a surge in popularity as they provide content creators with better revenue-sharing options, improved tools, and a safer environment for their communities.
Kick.com, another fast-growing live-streaming application, is also making waves in the industry.
Though they come late in the competition (around early 2023), Kick.com empowers streamers with the right tools and revenue splits to monetize their content effectively.
Streamers like Trainwreck, also known as Trainwreckstv or Tyler Faraz Niknam, have expanded their presence to Kick.com, increasing their reach and diversifying their audience.
Conclusion: The Changing Landscape of Live Streaming
As Twitch grapples with its decline in viewership and the departure of high-profile streamers, competing platforms are stepping up to seize the opportunity to attract top talent and expand their user bases.
While Twitch still maintains a considerable presence in the live-streaming industry, it’s clear that streamers are exploring alternatives that offer better financial opportunities, tools, and support.
The future of live streaming is more diverse than ever, with various platforms vying for dominance.
As the landscape continues to shift, these platforms must prioritize the needs of content creators and their communities to ensure a thriving ecosystem for fans and streamers alike.
A gaming writer and Twitch community management expert. My entertaining and informative content provides value to readers looking to improve their streaming setup or stay up-to-date with the latest gaming trends