Xsolla acquires Lightstream, Rainmaker, and API.stream to empower content creators

In the ever-evolving world of content creation and distribution, innovation and simplification are constant goals. That’s why Xsolla, a major player in the video game industry, has decided to make a strategic move to meet these challenging needs.

Today, Xsolla announced it has acquired Lightstream, Rainmaker, and API.stream from Videndum, the parent company. These tools are primarily designed to transform the landscape of content creation and distribution. The terms and the total amount of the deal were not disclosed.

The deal also underscores Xsolla’s strong recognition of the immense value that content creators bring to the gaming realm. Their focus is on fortifying ties with talent agencies, creators, and their audiences. This move is a significant win for content creators and the gaming industry at large, offering them the necessary tools to thrive and contribute to a more diverse and vibrant gaming landscape.

With this acquisition, creators will gain access to a range of features including easy live streaming through Lightstream, allowing users to go live quickly via cloud streaming services, request free keys from game developers through the Xsolla Partner Network, and participate in referral programs to earn income by promoting games to their audience.

Additionally, creators gain the ability to establish their own branded web shops, selling digital items related to games within Xsolla’s portfolio. Utilizing Rainmaker’s platform, creators can effectively oversee and expand their audience while optimizing revenue opportunities. In essence, the acquisition of Lightstream, Rainmaker, and API.stream marks a significant positive leap for the gaming industry, equipping creators with the necessary tools for success and contributing to a richer and more diverse gaming environment.

“This acquisition, which includes Lightstream, Rainmaker, and API.stream, marks a pivotal moment in the gaming industry, aiming to help creators and enhance content in unprecedented ways. Xsolla will allow creators to go live within seconds via cloud streaming services, request free keys from game developers, participate in referral programs, create their branded web shops, and sell digital goods for games in Xsolla’s portfolio,” Xsolla said in a news release.

Renowned for its Xsolla Partner Network, a platform that allows developers and publishers to tap into fresh revenue sources, this recent acquisition heralds a whole new realm of opportunities. By incorporating Lightstream, Rainmaker, and API.stream, Xsolla is dedicated to simplifying the process for creators: facilitating live streaming via cloud services, accessing complimentary game keys, participating in referral programs, establishing personalized online shops, and vending digital gaming assets associated with Xsolla’s catalog.

Lightstream stands as a cloud-based studio enabling creators to effortlessly produce and share live content. Meanwhile, Rainmaker provides creators with the tools to manage and expand their audience, optimizing revenue prospects. API.stream consists of adept engineers committed to evolving the landscape of live-streaming production. With their expertise in cloud-native output, they’ve paved the way for innovative forms of content creation.

The aggregation of tools within the Xsolla Partner Network also offers an inclusive array of features designed to enhance audience engagement, monetization, and the distribution of complimentary keys.  Xsolla’s CEO, Chris Hewish, highlighted the company’s dedication to empowering creators through this acquisition, aiming to provide extra value to the gaming community and transform the Xsolla Partner Network into a comprehensive solution for developers, publishers, creators, and their audiences.

“Xsolla is committed to supporting creators and providing them with the tools they need to succeed. The acquisition of Lightstream, Rainmaker, and API.stream reinforces our dedication to delivering extra value to the gaming community and making the Xsolla Partner Network an all-encompassing solution for developers, publishers, creators, and their audiences” Hewish said.

Meanwhile, Xsolla reassures current Lightstream users that the platform will continue smoothly, maintaining partnerships with major players like Microsoft, Xbox, Twitch, and Steelseries. The goal of the acquisition is to enhance user experience by offering additional resources and features.

Founded in 2005, Xsolla has been a global video game commerce company offering tailored tools and services for the gaming industry, supporting game developers and publishers in various aspects like funding, marketing, launching, and monetizing games worldwide.

Videndum, on the other hand, is a key provider of high-quality hardware and software solutions for the content creation market, catering to various customers from broadcasters and studios to independent content creators. Their array of products and solutions spans different aspects of content creation, employing about 1,800 individuals across 11 countries, organized into three divisions: Media Solutions, Production Solutions, and Creative Solutions.