Twitch Anticipates Return of Streamers Like Valkyrae & Ludwig Following End of YouTube Contracts

Twitch continues to reign supreme in the realm of livestreaming, with popular streamers such as Valkyrae, Ludwig, and Sykkuno returning to the platform. This phenomenon has not caught the attention of Twitch executives off-guard; they attribute this comeback to the exceptional audience interaction that Twitch uniquely fosters.

In recent years, Twitch has seen some of its most prominent stars migrate to rival platforms like YouTube and Kick. Influential figures such as Myth, TimTheTatman, DrLupo, and others departed to explore new opportunities before eventually returning to Twitch as their exclusivity contracts expired.

Twitch has pointed out significant trends during this transitional phase. They stated, “2024 saw a significant shift in the scene as multimillion-dollar contracts from Kick and YouTube with high-profile influencers expired, leaving many reconsidering their positions with these services.” Such developments have led to a substantial influx of creators returning to Twitch, eager to reconnect with their audiences and rekindle their growth.

Leading personalities like Ludwig (3.3 million followers), Sykkuno (3.9 million followers), and Valkyrae (1.2 million followers) have made their way back to Twitch after temporary stays on other platforms. Their reasons often highlight the community ethos and distinctive format that Twitch offers.

“Their audience never left Twitch”

Pontus Eskilsson, Twitch’s VP of Global Partnerships, proudly boasted about the platform’s top-tier partnership programs and monetization options. However, he emphasized that these financial incentives are not the sole drivers for creators’ return.

“We have been delighted to welcome back so many talented streamers over the past year. It’s no coincidence that many of them have found that their audience never left Twitch and were right here waiting for them,” Eskilsson shared.

“While we offer industry-leading partnership programs and monetization, we know that isn’t what drives creators. To really thrive, they need the engaged audience and real-time discourse that makes livestreaming such a unique and popular format. They come for their communities and friends across shared passions. This continues to be what Twitch is built on, and why we are the leading livestreaming service.”

After an extended period on YouTube, Valkyrae has made her way back to Twitch.

Valkyrae herself noted a shift in YouTube’s focus towards Shorts, stating, “They’ve specifically told me that their priority is Shorts. There were things on the streaming side of things that I wanted changed, that didn’t change and I’ve been there for five years.”

As it stands, Twitch appears to maintain its leading position in livestreaming. While platforms like YouTube and Kick provide essential competition—potentially prompting Twitch to adapt—it’s hard to contest their assertion that they continue to deliver an unmatched community experience for both streamers and viewers.

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