IGN has outlined its co-streaming guidelines for the upcoming Awesome Indies showcase and gamescom Studio powered by IGN. These rules are designed to protect developers and event partners while allowing content creators to share the events with their communities.
While IGN does not grant express licenses or commercial rights for its content, it will refrain from issuing copyright strikes or DMCA takedowns against pre-approved channels that strictly follow the established guidelines. Creators are responsible for ensuring their streams comply with platform terms of service and local broadcasting regulations, especially concerning mature content, as both showcases feature a variety of games with potential ESRB M or PEGI 18 ratings.
Feed integrity is paramount. Co-streamers must broadcast the shows live and uninterrupted, without obscuring or modifying the core broadcast feed. All on-screen elements such as sponsor logos, developer watermarks, lower-thirds, and legal disclaimers must remain visible. Personal webcam feeds and stream overlays are permitted as long as they do not obstruct critical on-screen information.
Regarding monetization, standard platform features like Twitch Subscriptions, Bits, YouTube Super Chats, and regular ad rolls are allowed. However, creators are prohibited from selling custom sponsorships, running branded overlays, or integrating third-party products in a way that suggests affiliation with IGN, gamescom, event partners, or featured indie developers.
Video on Demand (VOD) archiving of co-streams is permitted. However, creators may not upload standalone, unedited trailers from the showcases. Any recap videos must include substantial transformative commentary from the co-streamer.
IGN reserves the right to revoke co-streaming approval at any time. Violations of these guidelines, platform terms of service, or engaging in harmful behavior such as racism, homophobia, or defamation may result in a DMCA takedown notice.