TikTok is stepping into the arena. After Netflix, it’s now the social network that is turning to video games to boost its platform. It may soon be possible to play mini mobile games directly on TikTok - the first tests have already started.

TikTok is testing its new feature in Vietnam. The Chinese social network wants to expand its reach to a new playing field, that of gaming. Some users in Vietnam have already been able to test this new feature.

If the initial feedback is positive, these mini games may be launched worldwide. Douyin, the Chinese version of the application, has already been offering such options since 2019.

Like Netflix, TikTok intends to tap into the booming gaming field. In 2021, the video game industry made more than US$180bil , 52% of that total or US$93.2bil came from games on smartphones and tablets alone, overtaking the share from traditional consoles and PC areas, according to a report by Newzoo. A market that holds great promise for social media and other streaming platforms.

Since the pandemic, TikTok has diversified its content to attract more brands. After live shopping, Fashion Week and the red carpets of the Cannes Film Festival and the Grammy awards, the Chinese platform is headed for the gaming world.

Back in 2021, TikTok revealed it was taking steps to move into the world of video games by announcing “TikTok Live Studio”, a platform still in the test phase that is similar to Twitch and allows users to broadcast their gaming activities live. The social network has also launched “The Game Room”, a monthly live video game event.

 - AFP Relaxnews