The streaming scene saw remarkable evolution throughout 2024, with Twitch and new platforms making headlines for their monumental growth and unique content trends. According to Stream Hatchet, the overall interest in Twitch streaming surged, significantly influenced by innovative strategies and new gaming genres gaining traction.
One of the standout findings of the year was the meteoric rise of the platform known as Kick, which recorded 1.7 billion watched hours, marking a staggering 176% increase compared to 2023. This growth signifies not only the shift of viewers to alternative platforms but also the diversification of content available across the streaming ecosystem. Notably, Spanish-speaking audiences were particularly engaged, with their watch time skyrocketing from 56 million hours last year to 364 million hours this year, representing an impressive 546% increase.
Other platforms such as SOOP Korea (1.1 billion watched hours), Chzzk (585 million hours), and BIGO Live (217 million hours) also made their mark, filling the niche of regional and specialized content. This shift suggests streamers have begun utilizing various platforms for simultaneous broadcasting, significantly boosting average viewership by 27% to 491% when top streamers leverage multiple platforms.
When delving deep, Twitch maintained its position as the dominant figure within the streaming community. This year's data revealed how Twitch Drops campaigns dramatically increased viewer engagement, with games like Diablo IV demonstrating growth of 1353% due to promotional events. This strategy not only boosts numbers during the event but also extends viewership post-campaign, showcasing the lasting impact of compelling game promotions.
The RPG genre particularly thrived during 2024, collectively racking up over 2 billion viewing hours across various platforms. The game Elden Ring emerged as the king of the genre, accumulating 293 million hours, reflecting its grip on the gaming community. Meanwhile, Path of Exile and Monster Hunter: World generated 90 and 66 million hours respectively, emphasizing the popularity of immersive, narrative-based gameplay.
Interestingly, downloadable content (DLC) enjoyed newfound respectability this year, drawing viewership comparable to full games. The Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree expansion attracted 127 million hours, showing the growing trend of gamers tuning in for DLC content. Other popular expansions included World of Warcraft: The War Within and Destiny 2: The Final Shape, demonstrating the audience's interest extending beyond main titles to their expansions.
Virtual streamers also made gains this year, rising to prominence with 294 million hours of viewing time, driven by content from popular titles such as GTA V, League of Legends, and Minecraft. Their increasing presence on English-speaking streaming platforms indicates a shifting viewer preference where avatars and personalities play pivotal roles.
The competitive gaming arena experienced significant engagement, underscored by the eSports World Cup, which captivated more than 103 million viewing hours. At its peak, the competition attracted 2.8 million viewers, showcasing the rising interest around competitive gaming. Titles like DOTA 2 and Mobile Legends: Bang Bang led the charge for viewer engagement, with 340 million viewing hours for the latter underlining mobile esports' increasing popularity.
Co-streaming has become another pivotal development, making up 44% of all views within the esports domain this year. This innovation allows fans to engage with content creators' commentary and reactions during live gameplay, providing personalized experiences and enhancing community interactions.
With multiple platforms vying for attention and innovations redefining user experiences, the 2024 Twitch streaming year proved to be impactful. Streamers adapted their practices to align with viewer preferences, favoring easier access to content through diverse platforms and content types. The burgeoning RPG genre, the rise of mobile gaming, and the establishment of co-streaming demonstrate how the streamlining of viewer engagement is paving the way for the future of the industry.
This year not only highlighted the impressive statistics but also underscored the growth potential for streaming platforms as they innovate and diversify. With viewership trends reflecting changing demographics and interests, the streaming industry seems primed for continual evolution and expansion as it enters 2025.