Facebook is leveling with Twitch and YouTube with livestreaming trends. They have come up with an update that allows livestreaming for online games. With the Games Software Development Kit, developers are able to build Facebook livestreaming directly into the games. The difference between this and other streaming methods is that there is no go-between client or capture hardware required.
The Games Software Development Kit or SDK’s goal is to increase engagement and insert app events and Facebook Analytics to the games. The update will let livestreaming players stream directly from a game to the social networking site. Soon, clips will be shareable to pages and groups. A more detailed report can be read on Facebook for Developers.
A reward system is part of the update
The update also includes a reward system, which allows viewers watching the livestream to receive free perks, such as in-game equipment. The site encourages game makers to “[curate and grant] free, in-game rewards for viewers that tune in during livestreams.” The update also indirectly encourages viewers of the livestream to play so that they may also receive a virtual item. Indirectly, the new feature encourages the viewers to also play the game.
To the game developers, the social media platform offers improvements to its Facebook Login and Facebook Friend Finder features. To better optimize the games, the site has App Events and Facebook Analytics to make that promise.
The reason for the development is so that players and developers focus on the sites Key Player Stats where players can share their performance development, share and find more players.
The social media network announced their new update during the annual Game Developer Conference in San Francisco, which runs from March 19 through March 23.
“Crowfall,” “Paladins,” “Overwatch,” and “World of Warcraft” are the multiplayer online games used to demonstrate their development. The newest features will officially launch on March 24 during the Paladins Premier League.