Twitch Expands Its Empire by Selling Video Games

The ultra-popular video game streaming outlet Twitch has revealed plans to begin competing in the gaming world’s retail market. As of spring, consumers will be able to purchase video games and “in-game content” directly through the platform — both major corporate publishers and independent entities will sell products through the service. The streamers who choose to partner with Twitch in order to sell their games through the outlet will earn 5% of each sale from their respective pages — 70% of each sale will go directly to the creator of the game.

Along with the new retail function, consumers who purchase games through Twitch will receive a new digital product intended for use only through the streaming service. Known as “Twitch Crate,” the randomly-curated round-up of online items includes Bits (a Twitch-only currency for “animated chat GIFs”), emotes and badges. For every game you purchase, you will receive a new “Crate” to add to your collection.

As of this time, companies such as Ubisoft, Paradox Interactive, Vlambeer, tinyBuild, Telltale Games and others have brokered deals to sell games through Twitch — expect the company’s new retail market to formally launch within a few months.