Twitch Streamers are Getting DMCA Claims on Random Sound Effects

Making a living as a content creator isn't easy, and now things are becoming more complicated for Twitch streamers as DMCA strikes are now being placed on in-game sound effects.

According to a report by gamesindustry.biz, multiple Twitch streamers are claiming that their videos are being flagged for copyright for sound effects. The sounds in question have varied from bird noises to police sirens. They primarily appear to be copyright claims by sound effect publishers and not by the game publishers themselves, bringing the legitimacy of these claims into question.

This followed an ongoing development of user unrest after Twitch issued a wave of DMCA takedowns on their content. After the creators voiced their displeasure, Twitch responded with suggestions to delete any videos that may infringe on copyright and to mute the game itself if they are uncertain of potential issues. Many users remain frustrated at Twitch's handling of the situation.

With Mixer having shut down, this leaves livestreamers with few alternatives for the platform. While Twitch remains the most popular livestream platform, these ongoing administrative issues have been gradually driving creators away. Unfortunately, the second best option, YouTube Gaming (YouTube's live stream system) also has a history of problems relating to illegitimate or unnecessary copyright claims.

We understand that copyright laws are a complicated thing. Companies need to protect their content from being stolen or pirated. But how does deleting a video of someone playing Spider-Man on the PS4 help anyone? If anything, it hurts potential sales of the product by limiting consumer exposure. But we're not marketing specialists.