Introduction
If you’re an avid console gamer with aspirations to become one of the greats, you’ve no doubt thought of streaming your gameplay to the world. It’s a surefire way to squeeze out a bit of extra fun while building a fan base, and perhaps even make some money along the way. Streaming your console gameplay can be quite daunting, though, and the thought of having to invest in the right tools makes it even more so. In this blog post, we’ll go through all the essential streaming tools you’ll need in order to create professional-level console game streams.
Hardware Considerations
The first thing you’ll need to invest in for streaming is a high-quality console. You’ll need to make sure that your chosen hardware has adequate beefy hardware specs and can handle the workload of streaming. Depending on the platform and games that you’re going to stream, you may need to invest in some kind of Capture Card to stream your gameplay in simultaneous feedback. There is no one-size-fits-all solution, as all consoles have different requirements, so research what’s best for your chosen console.
Choosing a Streaming Platform
The next essential streaming tool you’ll need is a streaming platform. There are a number of platforms available to stream your gameplay. Twitch is the most popular of the bunch and offers a fantastic community and advanced streaming tools. Mixer is also worth checking out due to its integration with the Xbox One console, allowing you to stream directly from the console to the platform. YouTube Gaming is also a great choice, with support for multiple platforms and excellent channel features.
Streaming Software
Once you have your console and streaming platform chosen, you’ll need to pick a streaming software. There are a number of options out there, but the two biggest names in streaming software are XSplit Gamecaster and OBS Studio. Both are excellent choices, with OBS Studio being a slightly more advanced piece of software, while XSplit Gamecaster is more of a user-friendly, entry-level streaming solution. Whichever one you choose, make sure that it is compatible with your chosen streaming platform.
Capture Cards
One of the most important pieces of streaming hardware is the capture card. This device connects to your console or PC and allows you to record your gameplay and stream it to your favourite streaming platform. There are a variety of capture cards available for different platforms, with the Elgato HD60 and the AVerMedia Live Gamer being some of the most popular. Again, research your chosen console to find out which capture card is best for your setup.
Microphones and Headset
Having a quality microphone and headset is essential for interacting with your viewers. A good quality microphone is paramount for capturing your voice clearly and making sure your audience can understand you throughout your stream. Additionally, a decent headset will ensure that you can clearly hear the voice comms of your team mates and the sounds of the game.
Internet Connection
The internet connection is perhaps the most important part of streaming your console gameplay. You’ll need a strong connection in order to make sure your stream doesn’t lag, or your viewers get buffering issues. Priority should be given to download speed when considering which provider to go with. Think of it like a video game: the better your internet connection, the better your performance.
Additional Accessories
Aside from the basics, there are some additional accessories that you can invest in to make your streaming experience even better. One of the most important of these is a web camera. This allows your viewers to see your face and directly interact with you, creating a better connection with your audience. Another great accessory for streamers is a streaming overlay. This adds a layer of image/video to your stream, further personalizing your experience. Furthermore, some streamers also like to add lighting and a backdrop to their setup for added effect.
Conclusion
The journey to becoming a pro streamer is no easy task and requires the right hardware, software and accessories. To get started you’ll need a high-quality console and streaming platform of your choice. Then, you’ll need to pick the right streaming software and capture card for your console in order to capture and stream your gameplay. Additionally, you’ll need to invest in a quality microphone and headset, as well as a decent internet connection. Finally, you can add some extra accessories like a web camera, streaming overlay, lighting and backdrop to give your setup a more professional look. Follow these steps and you’ll be ready to stream your gameplay like a pro.
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