Video game live streaming has been around since the early 2000s, but it gained more popularity around the 2010s with platforms like Twitch and YouTube Live. And when all of us were forced to stay at home during the pandemic, many Filipinos – gamers, in particular–turned to Facebook Gaming for their live streaming fix.
So why do Filipinos choose Facebook Gaming over its more internationally popular alternatives? Join us as we dig deep into the possible reasons behind this phenomena; and find out why Facebook Gaming is king.
Accessibility is key
First, some numbers from Meltwater and We are Social:
- 2 million Filipinos are internet users (including those with a home WiFi connection)
- Facebook is the most popular social media site, with over 95.7 percent of Internet users using the platform each month.
It’s no surprise that Filipinos access Facebook to such a degree, since its app comes pre-installed on mobile devices. What’s more, Filipinos have free access to Facebook on mobile. Thanks to Facebook Gaming being connected to such a widely used social media platform in the country, it’s garnered more eyes for its Filipino streamers than what Twitch could offer.
The games we play get more exposure
From Facebook Gaming
You’ll find the usual mainstream range of games when you’re scouting the most popular games on Twitch–from Valorant and League of Legends, to Dota 2 and Counter Strike: Global Offensive. And while many Filipinos love those games too, Facebook Gaming’s front page is catered to our gaming palette. Playerunknown's Battlegrounds (PUBG) Mobile, Garena Free Fire, and– arguably the most popular game for Filipinos–Mobile Legends: Bang! Bang! top the list on Facebook Gaming.
A greater emphasis on mobile games
It’s pretty noticeable from the previous entries that Facebook Gaming’s popularity in the Philippines is correlated to its generous catering to the mobile gaming fanbase. In comparison, Twitch’s main audience base caters to PC gaming. It’s a ‘chicken or egg’ argument whether it’s the Filipino fanbase that’s already on Facebook shaping it the way it is, or if it’s Facebook Gaming being a lot more accessible to mobile gaming live streams–but in either case, mobile gaming is what’s making Facebook Gaming a more popular platform here in the Philippines.
Is there an end in sight to Facebook Gaming’s reign as king of video game live streaming in the Philippines? Only time will tell. However, as long as mobile gaming remains the most accessible option for us Filipinos to game, then we don’t see it ending any time soon.
Although we may be playing our games mostly on mobile, having a fixed home WiFi connection takes your gaming and streaming to new heights. PLDT Home is still your best option to avoid high pings, dropped connections, and for optimal gaming experience. Subscribe today to the Philippines’ undisputed fastest Internet, and see the difference it makes in the way you play!