Popular Twitch Streamer Pokimane Announces Departure from Platform Exclusivity

Imane “Pokimane” Anys, one of Twitch‘s biggest streamers, is bidding farewell to the platform’s exclusivity as she embarks on a new chapter in her career. Anys, who has been a fixture on Twitch for a decade, announced her departure in a heartfelt message to her fans. She expressed gratitude for the memories and love she has received during her time streaming games like League of Legends, Fortnite, and Among Us.

While Anys will not be terminating her Twitch contract, she is now free to stream on other platforms. During her podcast, she explained the limitations imposed by exclusivity contracts, which prioritize streaming hours over the quality of content. This shift will allow her to explore different platforms such as Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok, in addition to occasionally returning to Twitch. Anys aims to participate in whatever seems fun to her, unhindered by contractual obligations.

With the rise of competitor platforms, YouTube has been actively signing high-profile Twitch streamers, including names like xQc and Amouranth. However, Anys had previously rejected such offers, citing a commitment to her morals and ethics. Nevertheless, YouTube has successfully secured prominent streamers like Rachell Valkyrae Hofstetter, Lily LilyPichu Ki, and Ludwig Ludwig Ahgren.

Anys has been gradually diversifying her content in recent years, branching out into lifestyle-related videos and even launching her own snack brand. She continues to post vlogs on YouTube and create short-form videos on TikTok.

Twitch, meanwhile, is grappling with the challenge of retaining its top talent. While streamers like Anys can still technically stream on Twitch simultaneously with other platforms, the company discourages using simulcast rules to direct traffic elsewhere. Twitch’s CEO Sarah Clancy has recently emphasized that the platform is not profitable and can no longer offer lucrative deals to retain big streamers. Clancy suggested that the cost of retaining streamers outweighs the revenue they generate, leading Twitch to change its approach to exclusive contracts.