As Apex Legends enters its 17th season, it finds itself amidst controversy. While the previous season focused on fixing older Legends, the changes in this one have not been well-received. The negative reaction seems to have extended beyond the game itself, as Apex Legends' viewership on Twitch has now hit a significant low.
Although not the all-time lowest point for Apex Twitch viewership, it does mark a record low for the past several years, indicating a notable decline from the game's previously achieved popularity.
Apex Legends made its debut in 2019, instantly garnering massive numbers in daily traffic and viewership. During its initial launch, the game reached its peak online popularity. However, shortly after, it experienced a steady decline throughout 2020. Things took a turn for the better afterward, with Apex Legends successfully building its player base back up and even achieving impressive Twitch viewership in 2022.
However, 2023 has presented challenges for the game. Despite promises of a bright future, developers have struggled to address persistent bugs, unbalanced Legends, and a new Ranked mode that has dampened enthusiasm for the game overall. These issues are now evident in both the player count and Apex Legends Twitch viewership.
The past week witnessed Apex Legends Twitch viewership plunging to levels not seen since 2020. This decline reflects a decreased interest in the game and content creators' frustration, leading some to abandon their coverage of the game. The changes to the Ranked Mode have notably impacted content creators' engagement with Apex, contributing to the reduction in Twitch viewership. If this trend continues, the game's viewership may hit a new low before the Season 18 release date.