During a limited period spanning late 2025 and early 2026, the Game Night Picks YouTube channel experimented with YouTube’s built-in Promotions tools to expand the reach of selected videos. These tools are offered directly by YouTube and distribute videos to broader audiences within its platform, with resulting views counted and reported by YouTube.

Because this approach produced view counts significantly higher than the channel’s historical norms, steps were taken at the time to provide sponsors with context. In late November, sponsors were notified of the surge in viewership numbers. Subsequent communications outlined how sponsorship billing would be evaluated when engagement patterns differed from typical performance, and the channel’s “Video Services” documentation was updated to restate those policies. Sponsorships have always been reviewed on a case-by-case basis using the full range of available metrics, and that approach was applied consistently during this period.

After evaluating the results, it became clear that YouTube Promotions did not produce the level of sustained viewer engagement or long-term value that Game Night Picks aims to deliver for sponsors and viewers. As a result, these promotion tools are no longer being used on the channel.

Game Night Picks’ objective has always been to operate in good faith with publishing partners: to communicate clearly, set expectations in advance, and provide flexibility in how campaigns are assessed when circumstances change. That includes offering alternative billing structures or adjustments when appropriate, and ensuring sponsors can evaluate campaigns using the criteria that matter most to their business.

Going forward, advertising placements on Game Night Picks will continue to emphasize clarity around traffic sources, billing methods, and evaluation criteria before campaigns begin. Transparency and responsible stewardship of sponsor trust remain core priorities.

Thank you to the publishers, collaborators, and viewers who have taken the time to understand this situation. Game Night Picks remains committed to professionalism, open communication, and providing real value to the partners it serves.