‘PC Gaming Streaming: The Ultimate Guide.’
The digital era has changed how we interact with video games. To allow for even deeper levels of in-game interaction, an ever-growing number of gamers are now turning to PC game streaming as their go-to method of play.
Whether you’re just getting started or have been streaming for some time, this ultimate guide covers everything you need to know. From the best equipment to set-up, the best streaming tools and platforms, plus tips and tricks to make your stream look and feel professional, this guide will have you streaming like a pro in no time.
What is PC Game Streaming?
PC game streaming is a form of live streaming where gamers broadcast their gaming sessions over the internet in real-time. The streams are made up of video, audio, and graphics generated from their gaming PC and are transmitted via the internet to other gamers across the world. This allows for a more in-depth and interactive gaming experience, as viewers are able to interact with the streamer in real-time and join in on their gaming session.
Streamers can also build a community around their streams, often having regular followers that watch and comment as they play. This community interaction serves to further enhance the streamers gaming experience, enabling them to interact with like-minded people and build relationships.
Getting Started with PC Game Streaming
If you’re just getting started with game streaming, the first, and arguably most important, step is to ensure you have the correct equipment and software.
The Equipment
The first and most important piece of equipment you’ll need is obviously a gaming PC. This should have at least one connected monitor, a microphone, and a gaming headset/headphones/speakers. You’ll also need a web camera so viewers can see you.
The Software
To actually start streaming, you’ll need streaming software. This will allow you to capture and transmit your screen images, sound, and graphics and send them to viewers. Popular streaming software includes OBS (Open Broadcaster Software), XSplit, and Streamlabs.
Choosing a Platform
Once you have the correct equipment and software, it’s time to decide which PC game streaming platform to use. There are many platforms to choose from, but the main ones are YouTube Gaming, Twitch, and Mixer.
YouTube Gaming
YouTube Gaming is the biggest player in the game streaming industry and is well-known for its high-quality video content. It’s also the most popular gaming streaming platform, with millions of daily viewers. The majority of YouTube’s gaming content comes from professional gamers and YouTube celebrities, making it the best platform if you’re looking to become a professional streamer.
Live-streaming using YouTube Gaming is very simple and they provide viewers with a variety of options to interact with the streamer. Additionally, since YouTube is part of the Google network, it’s the best platform if you’re looking to grow your stream and gradually increase your subscribers.
Twitch
Twitch is the second most popular platform when it comes to game streaming, second only to YouTube Gaming. The majority of its content is made up of amateur gamers streaming casual sessions, much different than the professional streams seen on YouTube Gaming. Twitch is also known for its community interaction, with streamers often having a strong connection with their viewers.
Mixer
Mixer is a relatively new streaming platform, but is quickly gaining in popularity. It offers viewers an even more interactive experience than Twitch, with viewers able to directly participate in the game sessions. They are also able to watch the streamer in VR, giving them a more immersive experience.
Streaming Tips and Tricks
Once you’ve chosen your streaming platform and set up your equipment and software, it’s time to start streaming. However, to make your streams look professional and ensure your viewers keep coming back, there are some key tips and tricks to keep in mind.
Set-up Professional Audio and Video
The first and most important tip is to ensure your audio and video streams are of the highest quality. Your stream should be as crisp and clear as possible, with no distortion or lag. Badly distorted audio or video will drive away your viewers and ensure you never gain a following.
Instigate Interaction
Interaction is one of the key reasons viewers tune in to a stream. Try and create an interactive community for your stream by responding to comments, answering viewer questions and offering incentives to viewers who stay for a certain amount of time. A key part of building a community is getting to know your viewers and making them feel as if they are part of your streaming journey.
Have Fun
One of the most important things to remember when streaming is to have fun and stay passionate. If you’re not having fun, neither will your viewers and they’ll quickly tune out. Keep up the energy and try to engage your viewers while still focusing on the game.
Conclusion
Game streaming may seem daunting and difficult to get started in, but once you have the correct equipment and software and your set-up is complete, it’s an incredibly rewarding experience. You can build up a following of dedicated viewers and possibly even carve out a career for yourself as a professional streamer. Follow the tips and tricks in this guide and you’ll be sure to bring your game streaming to the next level.
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