Facebook Gaming is Now a Standalone App

The Facebook Gaming tab for mobile devices has been somewhat popular since its release over a year ago. However, it’s popularity has paled in comparison to the likes of YouTube’s gaming section, among others, despite relatively few differences between the platforms.

Much of this has been because Facebook has, historically, not wanted to compete with the established giants in the niche, such as Twitch and Microsoft’s Mixer. Now, however, this is going to change, according to a recent announcement by the firm.

The company’s head of app development, Fidji Simo, has seemingly confirmed that there will be a standalone Facebook Gaming app.

Simo told The New York Times (via TheNerdStash):

Investing in gaming in general has become a priority for us because we see gaming as a form of entertainment that really connects people.

Simo goes on to mention that watching video game streams isn’t a passive activity, apparently nodding to the extensive interactions between streamers and viewers. While Simo did seem to confirm that the social media platform will be branching out into the niche, it’s unclear as to what it could bring to the table.

Standalone Facebook Gaming Enters a Crowded Market

As it stands, Twitch, YouTube, and Mixer are the industry leaders for gaming apps, with there also being a wealth of smaller platforms. As such, there’s quite a large crowd competing for a relatively limited audience. Alongside that, it’s unclear as to what Facebook Gaming could offer popular streamers to attract them from these competitors.

There’s also the fact that there’s little wiggle-room when it comes to innovation in the niche. One of the few things that the social media giant does have is an abundance of users. Whether this translates to success for Facebook’s standalone gaming platform, however, remains to be seen.

The Facebook Gaming app is now available for Google Play. iOS support will come when “Apple approves” it. Stay tuned to GameSkinny for more.