When it comes to choosing a gaming platform, there are few to choose from. Each of these, though, will experience varying degrees of success. Much of this is thanks to well-thought-out marketing campaigns. And sometimes, it is the users that frequent these platforms that drive more people to use them. Currently, the most popular platforms are Twitch, YouTube’s gaming section, and more recently Microsoft’s Mixer.
Facebook has jumped on the bandwagon with the integration of Facebook Gaming. It is not a full gaming platform, but an additional section of the site much like YouTube’s streaming. But, according to the Facebook app’s head, Fidji Simo, they’re looking to complete with the big players on that front:
Investing in gaming in general has become a priority for us because we see gaming as a form of entertainment that really connects people
Simo goes on to state watching streamers isn’t simply a passive activity, possibly alluding to the stars and ‘bits’ streamers may get. That is objectively true, but it remains to be seen how they can improve on what’s currently available. When Facebook first added its gaming tab, it was much like YouTube’s gaming section. The biggest difference between the two was no more than a handful of things.
Looking to expand on the gaming aspect of their site, Facebook wants to push for a standalone gaming platform. With Twitch, YouTube and Mixer all streaming multiple things, the social media giant may have some trouble competing. There isn’t much room in the gaming platform space for innovation. So whatever surprise Facebook may have for the public, it’ll have to be good.
What do you think of Facebook’s plan to make its own ‘gaming platform’ app? Is it a good idea? Is there even room for another. Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
