YouTube will soon release “Playables,” an online-games service. The new gaming experience is now being tested by employees, giving players access to both mobile and desktop gaming. Games will include a wide variety of offerings, including Stack Bounce, an arcade style brick-smashing game, which can be played either on YouTube through a web browser or through the app. The addition of these gaming services is a move on the platform’s part to compete with Twitch, which is a growing platform amongst young gamers for livestreaming footage. YPulse’s Gaming report shows that more than 60% of Gen Z and Millennials are playing mobile games weekly or more often, and YouTube is already young consumers’ top source for watching esports, so gaming is well-connected with the brand. (WSJ)
