Twitch has expanded its ban on streaming content linked to specific websites in compliance with its gambling policy, which was adopted last October. Due to the company’s rules online gaming platforms – the Blaze and Gamdom have now been added to the platform’s blacklist.
Announcing the new bans through its Twitch Support account on X (formerly known as Twitter), the company made it clear that it aims to crack down on roulette, unlicensed slots, or dice games. The expansion of the ban is a part of Twitch’s actions against illegal gambling platforms in the U.S. or other jurisdictions with proper consumer protection measures.
Although this limitation exists, people have discovered ways to get around it, such as by utilizing virtual private networks (VPNs) to access Blaze and Gamdom from the United States.
Unclear Intentions
In a move to address concerns about deceptive and risky practices on questionable gaming platforms, Twitch will soon prohibit users from sharing links or referral codes to websites hosting games involving slots, dicy, or roulette. The ability to visit websites for poker, fantasy sports, and sports betting will still be available on Twitch. Promotions related to skins gambling or sponsorships, particularly for games like Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, remain off-limits.
Recent Reddit discussions highlighted certain disparities in Twitch’s enforcement. Streamer xQc criticized the platform for perceived favoritism after soccer star Neymar was seen gambling on Blaze without consequences. Some users pointed out that Blaze and Gamdom were not yet banned by Twitch.
Is Game Streaming Dying?
Following the installation of its new rules last year, Twitch noticed a huge 75% decline in gaming viewership. This decline is part of a broader trend, as indicated by the “Video Game Live-Streaming Trends Report for Q2 2023” by Stream Hatchet. Most platforms experienced a decrease in game viewership, with an average drop of 9% compared to the previous quarter.
Twitch’s own decline has been notable, with a 4.9% loss in viewership compared to Q2 of 2019. This period is regarded as a benchmark due to its proximity to the Pandemic of COVID-19 and ensuing worldwide shutdown. The worst-off party has been Facebook Live. It suffered a 50% loss the previous year, followed by a further 56.7% loss in the first two months of this year. In contrast, Stake.com-backed Kick has shown positive growth, increasing by 79% during the same period.
Between February 2022 and January 2023, Twitch had a 9.4% drop in average viewership and hours viewed. The implementation of the new anti-gambling policy contributed to this decline.
About Blaze and Gamdom
Blaze and Gamdom, provide a selection of slots-style casino games, roulette, and dice. Both platforms are licensed in Curaçao, but they are not licensed in the United States. As a result, they are not accessible to U.S. residents.
Blaze and Gamdom have both been criticized for their marketing practices, which some have accused of being predatory. Moreover, the platforms were also accused of targeting young people and using misleading promotional materials.
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