Nintendo has had a long history of restricting users with regard to gamers uploading gaming content on YouTube. Prior to the update today, content creators had to abide by a strict set of rules and guidelines issued by Nintendo which included sharing the profits of the video with Nintendo, getting their permission to use the content, etc. It seems that the New Nintendo Partner Program Guidelines relax these previously harsh rules and could make it easier for content creators to make more Nintendo content.
The Nintendo Partner Program – Before
The video below aptly summarizes the earlier state of the Nintendo Creator’s/Partner program. You can see that there are a lot of red flags here which is potentially why Sony and Microsoft games dominated the YouTube recommended section while you had to manually search for Super Smash Bros. 4 Gameplay or channels playing the game.
The New Nintendo Partner Program Guidelines – What’s Changed?
The new program outlines that Nintendo will no longer be taking a cut of your profits as long as you use the approved proprietary advertising partners for your videos. In addition to that, You no longer have to worry about getting approval, permission, or otherwise any cooperation with Nintendo if you intend to stream a game, record the game, etc.
Commentary is a must!
The only other caveat is that you have to include some form of original or creative input in the video which should be in the form commentary or similar. You can read the full FAQ for your clarity on the main page itself, but its good to see that Nintendo is opening its doors and loosening its grip.
More Nintendo Content to Come?
Prior to the program’s revision, Nintendo had some very strict rules when it came to their games being used by channels. Unless you willingly partnered your content with Nintendo and surrendered part of your profits to them, you would get a strike or a takedown on your video. This is why many creators prefer making content with the PC, PS4 and the Xbox One as the rules for creating content on them are a lot more relaxed.
Nintendo SwitchNO EARLY COPIES!
The last condition is you are only allowed to use released games. So if you plan on streaming a copy of Bayonetta 3 or Metroid Prime 4 from early copies sold by retailers, that is still going to get you a notice or a strike from Nintendo, so be wary of that. You are only allowed to stream or content for games that are released and are in the market right now.
With the new rules in place, what are your thoughts on the program? Let us know in the comments section below.