Games industry roundup: The big trends at E3 2019, Dr Disrespect banned from Twitch, and blockchain's increased E3 presence

While PocketGamer.biz focuses on the world of mobile gaming, it's always a good idea to keep an eye on the trends, controversies and opportunities of other sectors.
To that end, each week we round up the hottest stories as selected by our expert editorial team across our network of sites that includes PCGamesInsider.biz, InfluencerUpdate.biz and BlockchainGamer.biz.
Looking for a mobile roundup? You can check out our Hot Five here. You can also catch up on all the news coming out of Asia in our East Meets West roundup here.
Learn more about all these sectors of the games industry at Pocket Gamer Connects Hong Kong on July 17th and 18th.
Hottest stories
Over on PCGamesInsider.biz, there's analysis on the biggest trends to come out of E3 2019, and news that Grand Theft Auto V developer Rockstar North almost doubled its headcount in the 2018 financial year.
BlockchainGamer.biz reports that blockchain companies increased their presence at this year's E3, and the speakers and conference schedule for Blockchain Gamer Connects Hong Kong has been revealed.
InfluencerUpdate.biz meanwhile there's a look at why Instagram is hiding likes and what that means for influencers, an interview with What's Good Games, and a story on Dr Disrespect's Twitch ban following an IRL broadcast in a public bathroom.
PC game news and insights
Here are the five hottest stories from our sister-site PCGamesInsider.biz for the last week.
Positivity, Netflix-for-games and Keanu Reeves: Here are the biggest trends from E3 2019
Check out the biggest undercurrents from this year's show.
E3 2019: Microsoft has more studio cash to splash as it prepares for the next generation
Double Fine Productions acquisition, a new console, Keanu Reeves and much more.
E3 2019: Ubisoft's show wasn't flashy, but the French firm is making the most of its strong heritage
A decent variety of new and old, this felt like a celebration of what Guillemot and co. have built.
Jagex subscription revenue up 22.9 per cent in 2018
Offsets declines in microtransaction and advertising revenue.
For the 12 months ending March 31st, 2018, the Edinburgh studio had a monthly average of 1,063 members of staff.
Blockchain game news and insights
Here are the five hottest stories from our sister-site BlockchainGamer.biz for the last week.
Blockchain gets its own spotlight and stage at E3 2019
During E3 2018 we managed to see the steady inclusion of some big blockchain names among industry giants.
Speakers and schedule revealed for Blockchain Gamer Connects Hong Kong
The first-ever Blockchain Gamer and Pocket Gamer Connects Hong Kong is just over a month away on July 17th to 18th.
B2Expand introduces gamers to its newest title – Light Trail Rush
B2Expand, the development studio behind Beyond the Void, has introduced its community to its newest title, Light Trail Rush. According to the team, Light Trail Rush is all about reviving the classic arcade racing experience.
Axie Infinity sale ‘over in minutes’ on Battle Racers
With more than 600 parts being added to the Battle Racers roster within 150 exclusive chests. The Axie Infinity sale promised to be an interesting inclusion to the chest sale. Interesting turned out to be a remarkable understatement, however.
0xRacers has had an interesting launch
0xGames has had an interesting time so far with its newest title, 0xRacers.
Influencer news and insights
Here are the five hottest stories from our sister-site InfluencerUpdate.biz for the last week.
Why Instagram is hiding your likes and what it means for influencers
“We want people to worry a little bit less about how many likes they’re getting on Instagram and spend a bit more time connecting with the people that they care about,” says Instagram head Adam Mosseri.
YouTube improves notifications for users
YouTube has made changes to the way it notifies users about new videos and creators can now see what percentage of their audience has bell notifications on.
Dr Disrespect banned from Twitch following IRL broadcast in a bathroom
Twitch personality Guy 'Dr Disrespect' Beahm has been banned from the platform after broadcasting footage from a bathroom to his channel.
YouTube CEO responds to LGBTQ+ community following homophobic content
Susan Wojcicki has addressed concerns regarding the platform's decision to defend harassment, stating that she stands by the platforrm's decision to not take further action against controversial creator Steven Crowder.
What’s Good Games on being more than just the “girl gamer podcast”
Podcasting trio What's Good Games discuss the challenges and rewards that come with making a weekly gaming show.