New streamer Binge targets gaming world

Binge has already inked deals with gaming companies

A new Canada-based streaming platform for original series and shows inspired by popular video game worlds and content creators is gearing up to launch in 2022.

Binge, co-founded by Cody Hackman and Allan Ungar, aims to bridge the gap between gaming and traditional entertainment. The service is not related to the Australian streaming platform of the same name, backed by Foxtel.

Hackman is also the co-founder of LA-based blockchain outfit Slate Entertainment Group, which announced plans for a blockchain-based VoD platform called Binge in 2018.

However, a spokeswoman for the new gaming streaming service told C21 that Binge is now its own company and is not related to Slate Entertainment Group, adding that it will use blockchain technology “to provide transparent analytics for its content creators on the Binge platform.”

Hackman will serve as chief strategy officer at the streamer, with Canadian film director, producer and screenwriter Ungar as chief content officer.

“While gaming may have become more mainstream in recent years, we are still sorely underrepresented in the entertainment space,” the company said in its announcement today, timed ahead of E3, the trade event for the video game industry that begins on June 12.

The on-demand content platform is set to allow fans to experience content together and will be available to stream for free on internet connected devices when it launches in 2022.

The company said it had signed partners and inked development deals with as-yet-unnamed content creators, game publishers and studios to produce premium original series across retro, indie and blockbuster titles.

Hackman said: “With our extensive background and expertise in production, gaming and development, we’re fully committed to deliver high-quality content that respects the games we love. Over the coming months, we’ll share more information as we set the stage to welcome fans to the ultimate platform for original gaming entertainment.”

Ungar added: “When I directed Uncharted, the film, with Nathan Fillion starring as Nathan Drake, it was designed to be a love letter for the gaming community but to also prove there was a place for these kinds of adaptations; it was about staying loyal to the IP and the DNA of that world.

“The support the film received shed light on the fact that there is a real demand for this kind of content. Now we are thrilled to bring that same passion and fandom to binge.com. But, most importantly, to create an opportunity for gamers around the world to actively contribute and help define the future of games entertainment with us.”