Twitch Fixes Bug That Discounted Subscriptions And Streamers Aren’t Happy

The support Twitter account for Twitch has confirmed that the company has fixed a bug that allowed existing subscribers to take advantage of a special promotional offer intended solely for new subscribers. The SUBtember deal is set to run throughout September and offers up to 30% off the price of subscription packages depending on how long users choose to support each individual streamer.

Twitch has gone through a strange time over the last few months. Many felt that the streaming service would benefit from the demise of Microsoft’s Mixer and several high-profile streamers did indeed return to Twitch. One prominent example was Shroud, who announced in August he was returning to the platform in an exclusive deal. However, the service has also faced criticism for the way it banned Dr Disrespect without any explanation.

Twitch has confirmed that it has fixed a bug that allowed users to take advantage of a special promotional discount. Every year, the streaming site runs a special “SUBtember” event so that viewers can buy subscriptions at a lower price than normal, with the biggest reductions coming for three and six-month deal. However, the bug allowed anyone to simply cancel a subscription and then get access to the discounted price despite the fact the promotion is intended only for new subscribers. Twitch Support confirmed the company has now closed the loophole, saying, “SUBtember is reserved for first-time Subscriptions to channels, or Prime/Gift Subs continuing to a paid Subscription,” and, “We are very sorry for any confusion or disappoint this may have caused.”

However, the Twitter representative was quick to point out that “users who purchased Subs via this bug will keep the promotional pricing” and that “there is no impact to Creator revenue.” The move has angered some high-profile streamers according to Kotaku, with content creators arguing that the bug makes more sense than the actual promotion. After all, few new subscribers to a channel will be willing to commit to a six-month package, so the full price-reduction is largely wasted.

The streaming giant also came under fire recently for allegedly failing to protect its Creators. Streamer Sweet Anita went public with her concerns about the fact that Twitch refused to help protect her from a stalker who was using the platform to contact her. Others have also spoken out about the way Twitch doesn’t do enough to deal with sexual abuse and harassment.

Although Twitch was always likely to fix this particular bug, it is understandable to see creators upset. The offer was a good way to get existing subscribers to support streamers in the long term but is unlikely to convince new viewers to commit. Most users will want to try out a subscription for a new streamer before deciding to buy a six-month package, meaning the promotion is largely pointless for three and six-month packages.

Source: Twitch Support, Kotaku

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Nathan P. Gibson
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Nathan is a freelance writer with a passion for video games. He has contributed to a variety of outlets over the last five years and has written everything from breaking news stories to reviews of AAA games.

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