YouTube and Twitch square off at E3 with video game websites

Twitch may have popularized video game streaming, but now it could meet its match in the world’s largest video website, YouTube, which plans to launch its own gaming site this summer.

The two squared off at the Electronic Entertainment Expo on Tuesday, showcasing their offerings from opposite ends of the hall at the Los Angeles Convention Center.

At the Twitch booth, game developers discussed the inspiration for their work in talks livestreamed on Twitch’s website, beside a giant screen flashing excerpts of projects such as “Star Wars Battlefront” and “Tony Hawk Pro Skater 5.”

“We’re not about creating content as much as showcasing other people’s content,” said Chase, a Twitch spokesperson who goes by one name, adding that E3 visitors had flocked to the booth to meet “Twitch celebrities.”

One such notable was Joseph Alminawi, a self-described gaming personality who said he specializes in playing games within video games, like incorporating Simon Says into “Call of Duty.” He praised Twitch for bringing together a variety of creative people.

“It used to be that we broadcast on our own,” he said. “It’s really exciting to see … a crazy crossover.”

But YouTube could become a tough competitor to beat, at least to one gamer who praised the site’s seamless interface.

“This is going to push Twitch to become better,” said Edwin Nolasco, 26, after testing a beta version of YouTube’s site, slated to debut at gaming.youtube.com. He also said YouTube could attract game developers eager to monetize their videos, like many YouTubers before them.

“We’re waiting to see which one will win the battle,” Nolasco said.

Twitter: @dainabethcita