Twitch brings Pokimane, TimTheTatman animations to Times Square

Twitch is releasing a series of animations to be shown on Times Square billboards. The animations show off popular streamers as “legends,” including Imane “Pokimane” Anys and Timothy “TimTheTatman” Betar. The videos all end with the tagline “where legends are made.”

Pokimane’s video is bubbly and fun with an animation style that could be inspired by Steven Universe. Pokimane has bright purple hair and is accompanied by her cat, Mimi. The short animation says Pokimane has the “superhuman ability to befriend everyone” as well as to “eat while gaming.” This includes eating spaghetti “when things got sus.” While breaking new ground and making new friends, Pokimane has also “silenced a few trolls.” 

“When she reached the top of the game did she stop? Heck no. She broke right on through. Where will she go next? Only she knows. And Mimi probably knows too,” the video concludes. 

TimTheTatman’s animation looked a bit more like Regular Show or The Misadventures of Flapjack. The narration changes back and forth between an energetic narrator and a friendlier voice that speaks to TimTheTatman’s warm nature, which contrasts with his intense gameplay and appearance. 

While Tim is a fierce competitor, he also helps at-risk kids. The video also highlights his personal out-of-game accomplishments, including having a son. TimTheTatman tweeted that his animation and lore were inspired by his Twitch chat. 

Streaming superstar Tyler “Ninja” Blevins also received his own animation. His anime-inspired animation sees Ninja fighting a larger version of himself, “his biggest competition.” The video mentioned Ninja’s decision to leave Twitch and join Mixer, stating that he came back more dominant than ever before. 

The response to the animations has been largely positive. Fans and fellow streamers were impressed with the creative animations, which were catered to represent each streamer and their respective fans. Popular streamer and 100 Thieves co-owner Rachel “Valkyrae” Hofstetter even told Pokimane she was going to take a trip to Times Square just to see it in person. 

It’s unclear when exactly the billboards will pop up in Times Square or how long they will be present there.