YouTube is enhancing its interactive content by testing multiplayer functionality in its “Playables” gaming collection. This feature aims to increase user engagement by allowing real-time multiplayer gaming within select mini-games.
Currently, games like Ludo Club and Magic Tiles 3 are part of the test rollout. In an official statement, YouTube shared, “We’re beginning to test a new multiplayer feature for a few select games on YouTube Playables. Multiplayer on Playables lets you play games in real-time with other users.”
The Playables feature, which has been in development for over a year, initially offered a free catalogue of mini-games to premium users. However, in May 2024, YouTube expanded access to all users. The Playables library now includes over 130 games across categories like Action, Arcade, Puzzle, Trivia, Racing, Simulation, and Sports.
This move is in line with industry trends, as other platforms like Netflix and LinkedIn have also introduced gaming features to increase user retention and engagement. By adding multiplayer games, YouTube is diversifying its offerings, creating a more interactive experience for users. If the test is successful, the platform may expand its gaming portfolio further, strengthening its position in the gaming landscape.