Amazon is experimenting with playable game demos on its Twitch platform
An experiment has begun on Twitch enabling users to try game demos directly from the platform. This initiative comes from Amazon, with a test run involving a 20-minute sneak peek of "Reanimal," developed by Tarsier Studios.
Games journalist Zac Bussey noted the demonstration, which bypasses the need for a Steam download, allowing the demo to run directly on Twitch. Upon starting the demo, a countdown appears, leading users to the game's Steam page once the time runs out.
The service seems to use Amazon's Game Lift, which is likely leveraging cloud technology to facilitate gameplay. Bussey suggests that the primary focus of this demo is advertising.
GamesIndustry.biz is reaching out to Amazon Web Services (AWS) for further information regarding other potential games, pricing details, and any future expansion plans.
AWS initially rolled out GameLift, a service intended for deploying and running multiplayer games, back in 2016. This was followed by the introduction of Amazon GameLift Streams, a cloud-based gaming service, in March 2025. By January 2026, the service had grown to include six additional regions.
This streaming service is capable of delivering games in up to 1080p resolution at 60 frames per second to devices utilizing a web browser.