The YouTube channel managed by iXBT Games experienced a temporary block after the Ukrainian game studio GSC Game World lodged complaints about three videos that contained material from STALKER 2. This information was first shared on the portal’s Telegram channel, signaling a disruption that could affect the channel’s ability to publish new content and engage with its audience while the dispute remains unresolved.
According to a posted update from iXBT Games, the channel received three copyright strikes from GSC Game World. The message explained that as a consequence of these strikes, the channel can no longer upload new videos or conduct live streams. The timeline for a possible reversal hinges on YouTube’s evaluation of the case, which may involve the appeals process, potential legal considerations, and a formal decision from the platform’s management. Until such a decision is reached, the channel’s creators have to navigate the disruption and adjust their publishing plan accordingly.
In response to the restriction, iXBT Games has relocated some of its activity to other platforms and streaming services. The authors have shifted portions of their output to VKontakte and Rutube, and they have indicated that live broadcasts will be handled on Twitch as a temporary measure. This multi-platform approach aims to maintain contact with their audience and preserve access to game-related news, reviews, and gameplay footage during the YouTube outage.
At the time of the block, the iXBT Games YouTube channel boasted a sizable reach, with more than 385,000 subscribers and a cumulative view count exceeding 223.5 million since the channel’s inception in September 2009. The loss of the ability to publish on YouTube represents a significant shift for a channel that has historically used the platform as its primary distribution channel for entertainment, analysis, and commentary about the gaming industry. The situation underscores the ongoing friction between rights holders and user-generated content platforms as creators strive to balance each other’s expectations and protect intellectual property while maintaining open channels of communication with fans.
There has been mention on Reddit that this development may be connected to broader discussions about ad blockers and platform accessibility, suggesting that the landscape around content monetization and viewer engagement can be influenced by policy updates or moderator actions across different communities. The incident with iXBT Games serves as a concrete example of how copyright enforcement arguments can directly impact independent content creators and the way audiences receive game news and coverage in real time. As the situation unfolds, viewers and creators alike will be watching closely to see how the appeals and legal considerations evolve and whether the channel can reclaim its ability to upload and stream on YouTube, or whether a longer-term strategy will be required to sustain its presence across multiple platforms.