How to Start a Video Game Streaming

Streaming games online is not just a hobby anymore, but a great career option and can land you some money as well. When you stream online, there are no filters. The game is recorded with your reactions, and the entire content contains an element of performance.

If you think making videos for youtube is similar to streaming games, it’s a grave mistake you are making, my friend! Streaming is a complicated venture and requires technical knowledge. More than anything, it’s live!

How to Start Streaming Games

If you ever wonder for what joy people watch gaming streams, the answer is the thrill! It’s fun watching your fellow gamers get the last boss on the ground, and the journey feels too real. Many gamers watch streams to learn tips and tricks and find ways to excel in the concerned game.

Presently, Twitch, Youtube Gaming, and Mixer are the most popular platforms for game streaming. You can stream your game online on any of these outlets, given you have the right set of gears. Following are the stuff you’ll need to go live with your gameplay:

Gaming device

Well, the first and foremost requirement for game streaming is a gaming device. You can use a PC, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Playstation 4, or even IOS or Android. Play on the device you are more confident about and show-off your skills.

Gaming headsets with microphone

PCs and laptops come with an in-built microphone, but they aren’t enough. For a professional approach and better audio quality, go for a USB microphone and gaming headset. Trust me; you are not splurging when buying these tools, as they play a crucial part in enhancing your stream’s quality.

Internet connection

Of course, you’ll need an internet connection and that too, the most speedy and stable one. You will need it for both downloading and uploading, so ensure the connection is high-speed wifi for streaming sessions.

Webcam

Webcams come built-in with the PC or laptop, but the video quality might not be the best. You can try using a standalone webcam for your streaming. Some webcams offer the delivery of HD quality videos and, when paired with a gaming microphone, transform the whole streaming experience.

Access to Twitch, Mixer, or Youtube Gaming

Now when you are ready with all the essential equipment, the next step is setting up an account on one of the most popular gaming platforms. Twitch is a superior gaming service that allows exposure to millions of people. But since it’s too overcrowded, you can sign up for its alternatives as well, like Mixer and YouTube gaming.

Getting Started

If the initial phase of broadcasting your game might be perplexing. Don’t worry!  Below are instructions on how you can start streaming for various gaming devices; check them out.

Windows Pc

If your gaming device is a windows PC, you can use either stream on Twitch Or Mixer.

Twitch, being a more complex service, will require you to install a few apps. You can then sign up into a twitch account and enter the stream key. After signing up, decide whether you want to go for a raw stream or a professional one. Set up a simple OBS broadcasting app for basic streaming and enter the stream key to establish communication with the twitch account. For professional streaming, you can use advanced versions of OBS, which are much more user friendly and

The mixer works similar to Twitch. You can register through the website and make an account. Use an OBS software to enter into the account and input the stream key. That’s all. You are all set to start streaming.

PlayStation 4

If your gaming device is a PS4, your work is simplified to a great extent as the controller includes a share button. Once you click on the share button, select twitch service and link your account. Connect the eye camera and follow the steps again to start broadcasting.

The YouTube route is similar to that of twitch, and instead of signing up through a twitch account, you need to fill in your YouTube login detail. Connect the Sony Playstation’s Eye Camera and hit the “start broadcasting” button. Do not forget to alter the video quality, comments and title before starting your live stream.

Xbox One

The mixer is the best streaming option for Xbox One as it supports external cameras and USB microphones. To sign up on mixer, use your PC to go directly on the website and register. Using the on-screen keyboard is exhausting. Once your account is set up, the rest of the procedure is painless. A single tap on the broadcast button will get you live in front of millions.

Signing up on twitch for Xbox One is a little tedious task. You will need to sign up from the website and opt for the twitch option on the Xbox to broadcast your gameplay.

Nintendo Switch

To start streaming from Nintendo Switch, you will have to buy a capture card. It is the most challenging device to stream your game on. You can use the capture card with PS4 and Xbox One as well. After connecting the capture card with your PC, use supporting broadcasting software to enter the stream key and setting up broadcasting details. What else? Stream on!

Android

Streaming games on mobile phones is relatively easy. For the youtube route, you will need to install the YouTube gaming app from the play store and set upstream quality. Choose the game you want to play and assign the title and description. Share the link to your social media accounts so that people can follow and watch your content.

I would suggest you put your phone in DND mode as all your on-screen activities would be visible to the viewers.

For streaming through Twitch, the procedure will be quite intricate. Sign up for a Twitch account via computer and turn on the USB debugging from the settings app on your phone. You will need to download an app to display the phone screen on your computer. Use the OBS app to link all your webcam, video source, twitch account, and microphone and hit the broadcast button to go live.

To start streaming with mixer, you will require to create an account on the mixer website and link it to your Microsoft account. After entering your Microsoft login details, you will get access to the mixer creator app, where you can start streaming the game.

IOS

Mobcrush app allows you to stream games through your iPhone on platforms like Twitch, Facebook, and YouTube. You will need to switch on the screen recording, and the same will be directed to Mobcrush and then to Youtube, Facebook or Twitch. Keep your phone on “Do not Disturb” mode for privacy.

Streaming through the mixer route involves the same steps as android.

Apple offers a national streaming route – ReplayKit for a few supported apps and games. As the app has strict requirements, you will need to choose between the supported games to start broadcasting.

Tips for streaming games

If you found the set-up part tiring, get relieved. Now is the time for action. Before the thrill begins, consider encompassing the following tips to boost the viewership. No, these tips have nothing to do with your gaming skills but will assist you in the other aspects which are crucial when you are streaming your gameplay. Go on, have a look:

Presenting yourself

You don’t need to dress up and create fictional characters for yourself to attract the attention of viewers. Though it has been a popular approach nowadays, how could something so fashionable be exceptional? As a starter, the best way, in my view, would be being yourself. People will love watching your game if you are enjoying it yourself. You can also show-off your humor while gaming to add a specific entertainment factor.

Growing audience

The key to vast viewership is consistency. Be regular with your content. Promote your streams on other social media platforms and provide the link wherever possible. Do not spam! Be active in the chat box and reply to the audience. This practice will flaunt your friendly side and trigger curiosity about you among the followers.

There will be moments in your gaming which you would want your viewers to watch. Use Movavi, Bandicam or OBS to record your impressive moves and publish them on your account later.

Money making

You can make good money with consistent and high-quality game streaming. There are various ways like viewers donations, ad revenues, and subscriptions to raise money. However, money should not be your ultimate goal as it would inflict undue pressure, and you won’t be able to enjoy the process. Follow the success stories of renowned streamers and get inspired by their hard work and commitment.

Staying safe

Do not reveal your contact or personal info online. Take advantage of the moderating options and block people if necessary. Nourishing your community is essential but not at the cost of your physical and mental well-being. Try keeping anything related to your lifestyle and family away from the camera to avoid negative consequences.

Conclusion

Now that you know the different ways of video game streaming, what are you waiting for! Incorporate the tips mentioned in this post and improve your streaming for a broader fanbase. Do not forget that game streaming feeds a particular community, and you need to be careful about the choice of the games to meet their demands.

Get ready to share your gameplay with the world. I wish you all the best. Happy streaming.

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