TechinAsia reported that YouTube is bringing its gaming app to Japan. Japan will be one of the first markets globally, after the US and UK, to get a localized version of the gaming-only video and live-streaming app. With six of the top 10 most-watched Japanese YouTube channels falling under the gaming category.
A YouTube spokesperson confirmed with Tech in Asia that it will “definitely be the first country with a localized app for Asia,” though a specific release date was not provided. The spokesperson said it would launch “as soon as possible.”
The announcement was made by YouTube global head of gaming content Ryan Watt, speaking on stage at Tokyo Game Show. Watt pointed out several Japanese YouTube superstars who have leveraged their online celebrity to become much more than mere gaming enthusiasts:
Hikakin, with 5.9 million subscribers across four channels, is a full-time YouTuber. After he reviewed mobile game Chariso DX (BikeRider DX in English), it hit number one on the App Store.
Max Murai, with 500 million views a year after launching his YouTube channel, has already published an autobiography and released a song with Sony Music. He’s currently raising funds for a feature film.
Hajime, popular for his “let’s play” videos, launched his own mobile game. It shot to the number one spot on Google Play’s casual gaming charts and number one overall on the App Store.
Source: TechinAsia
