How to Stream Your PC Games Like a Pro.
Are you a passionate PC gamer looking to take your skills to the next level, showcase your gaming prowess to the world and make a living? Then you should look no further than streaming your favorite games on platforms like Twitch, Mixer, and YouTube! In this comprehensive streamers guide, we’re going to walk you through how to stream your PC games like a pro.
Whether you’re a veteran streamer or a newcomer to the world of streaming, it never hurts to brush up on the basics. Before we go any further, let’s take a look at a few basics of PC gaming streaming
The Basics of PC Gaming Streaming
Streaming is the process of broadcasting your gaming content to viewers over the internet. Streamers have their own specific tactics, but there are a few universal concepts that you should know before starting to stream.
Streaming Setup
This setup comprises of several components. You have your capture card to capture the video output from your PC, your streaming software, audio input and output, your PC or gaming console and your streaming platform.
Firstly, your capture card. A Capture Card enables you to take a video output from your gaming computer or console and transform it into an acceptable format for broadcasting over the internet. The broadcasting of video and audio over the internet is called a ‘stream’.
Secondly, streaming software. This can be something as simple as OBS (Open Broadcaster Software) or XSplit. These are free and open source pieces of software that you can use to capture, edit and combine your video and audio before sending them to the streaming platform.
Thirdly, audio input and output. You’ll need audio input and output devices such as a headset, microphone, sound card and sound system. This is so that you can communicate with your viewers, as well as mix and play audio during the stream.
Fourthly, your PC or gaming console. This is the main driving force behind the stream. If you’re playing video games then you will need either a gaming desktop or console.
Finally, your streaming platform. This is the website, such as Twitch, YouTube or Mixer, where you will broadcast the output of your stream.
Streaming Quality
Streaming quality is an important factor, as viewers want to watch your stream in the clearest possible resolution. To ensure the best streaming quality, you should have a consistent internet connection with high upload speeds and at least 5mbps of download speed.
There are other factors to consider too, such as the bitrate of your stream. The bitrate is the amount of data that is sent to your viewers, and it should be consistent to ensure smooth streaming. You can also tweak the settings on OBS to lower or raise the bitrate and resolution.
Additional Equipment and Accessories
Now that you know the basics of PC gaming streaming, you should also consider other equipment and accessories you might need.
One of the most important items you need is a webcam. This is a camera, either HD or UHD, mounted on a stand. This captures a video of you, the streamer, which is then combined with the video/audio output of your game and broadcast as a single stream.
Streamers also need computing power, so a good gaming PC is essential. Unlike standard computers, gaming PCs are built for performance and ideal for streaming.
You will also need a gaming headset. These are specifically designed headphones and microphones that are optimized to provide exceptional audio quality both when playing and streaming.
Live Video Presentation
To inspire and engage viewers, many streamers use live video presentation to give their channel an edge. Live streams usually consist of a combination of pre-produced imagery and graphics which are edited in real-time or as part of the stream.
This could involve a motion graphic, logo or sequence that is displayed during the stream in order to introduce the brand. It is also used to show off highlights from the stream, like a replay feature or solo performance.
Platform Selection
People stream their games on several different platforms, but the big three are Twitch, YouTube, and Mixer. Deciding on which platform to stream can be tricky, as each has their own unique advantages.
Twitch is the most popular streaming platform and has been around the longest. YouTube can offer exposure to a much larger audience than Twitch, while Mixer is a newer platform owned by Microsoft and has a growing user base. Ultimately, it is up to you to decide which platform is the best fit for your streaming needs.
Organizational and Broadcasting Tools
Strategic planning is an essential part of any streamer’s success. To organize your streams effectively and make sure viewers don’t miss out, you’ll need broadcasting tools.
Tools such as Streamlab make it easier to manage your streams as it allows you to set streaming intervals, specific times, and dates in advance. This way, viewers can easily view your upcoming streams and follow you on the platform.
Another thing to take into consideration is the notifications. Before going live, you can use a Discord bot to post alerts about your upcoming stream to your community.
Other Options to Increase Interactivity
Interactivity during streams makes them more interesting and keeps viewers coming back for more. You can increase interactivity on your stream by using chat bots, gaming overlays, and interactive polls.
Chat bots are virtual assistants that respond to messages while you’re streaming. They involve clever AI which can chat with your viewers and help moderate chat if needed.
Gaming overlays are a great way to showcase your graphics and keep viewers engaged. You can create custom overlays and add them to your stream.
Interactive polls are also a great way to involve your viewers and increase their interactivity. This can be done either during the stream or by posting polls on the platform.
Promotion and Monetization
The final step to streaming like a pro is to promote your content and make money from it. Many streamers are taking advantage of paid advertising and affiliate links, as well as fan donations and subscriptions.
The best way to do this is by building a brand and promoting it on social media. This can include endorsements, sponsorships, shoutouts, and collaborations with other brands.
To make money, streamers need to set up donation links and pay channels. Donations are paid directly by viewers and are a great way to show appreciation and make some extra income.
Alternatively, platforms like Twitch offer subscription services, which require viewers to pay a regular fee to gain exclusive perks from the channel. This is another great way to make money from streaming, however, you need to have at least 10,000 followers or subscibers for this to be enabled.
Conclusion
PC gaming streaming is an incredibly rewarding experience. It allows streamers to showcase their skills, engage with viewers and make money from it. To get started, it’s important to understand the basics of streaming, including the streaming setup and quality, additional equipment and accessories, live video presentation, platform selection and organizational and broadcasting tools. Furthermore, by utilizing interactivity and promotional opportunities, streamers can further increase their success. So, if you’re a PC gamer looking to share their love of gaming and start making money, this is the guide you need to do it. Get out there and start streaming!
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