Getting Started with Streaming Your PC Gaming
Starting a streaming career, especially on PC, is an exciting endeavor that can be very rewarding if done correctly. As a console gamer, the process can seem daunting at first. Here’s the good news, however: the best strategies for optimal streaming of PC gaming primarily align with what console gamers have been doing for years.
It’s time to take your stream setup to the next level — learn the tips, tricks and strategies that console gamers deploy to generate smooth, polished streams and apply them to your own streaming projects. Before long, your broadcasts will be ready to rock and you’ll be ready to glide into the streaming world.
Gearing Up with the Hardware Basics
Naturally, you’ll need to ensure your streaming setup has the necessary components to stream your PC gaming experiences. Starting off, you’ll need a gaming PC, a broadcast device (PC or console) and a streaming platform. A gaming console is not required, but it can make the process a bit easier.
The most critical components in the equation are the gaming PC and the streaming device. Your gaming PC should have adequate storage and memory to handle the games you’ll be streaming. 16GB of RAM is typically a good starting point, as is 128GB of storage.
Upgrading Your Streaming Device
To effectively stream your PC gaming experience, you’ll likely need to upgrade your streaming device. The basics are relatively simple. You’ll need a suitable broadcast device, such as a microphone, headset, web camera, streaming card, capture card or other peripherals. To focus on console gamers, we’ll look at a few of the top console-approved options.
Standard Streaming
Game Capture devices, such as the Elgato Game Capture HD60 Pro, are a great option for most console gamers. These devices allow you to stream directly from your console directly to Twitch or YouTube (and other streaming services). The Elgato Game Capture device also features HD60 Pro compatibility, which ensures your streams are of the highest quality.
A pro-quality microphone is also a must-have for console gamers. To capture your audio distinctively, you’ll need a microphone that can pick up sound from any direction. Many professional streamers opt for the Shure SM7B microphone, as its high-quality sound ensures the best possible audio for your stream.
Premium Streaming
If you’re looking to take your streaming career to the next level, you may want to invest in a high-end microphone and a compact streaming device. For instance, the Logitech StreamCam is an impressive device that captures consistently- high-quality 1080p video. Furthermore, its auto-focus tracking and superior sound-capturing ensure that your streams can be watched and heard clearly.
Also, upgrading your microphone to a pro-level device such as the Rode NT-USB will drastically improve the sound of your streams. This microphone utilizes three customizable polar patterns that enable it to pick up sound from various directions. Its flexibility gives it the edge when it comes to recording accurate audio for your streams.
Software Solutions for Console Gamers
Finally, setting up the software that captures and transmits your stream from your gaming console is critical in providing a top-notch streaming experience. Professional streaming software, such as OBS or Xsplit, is recommended for most console gamers.
OBS (Open Broadcaster Software) is a free, open-source streaming and recording program that is a great option for streaming from consoles. It is a powerful program but is easy to use. It also supports real-time effects on your stream, so you can switch scene layouts with ease as you play.
Xsplit is a great alternative to OBS. It’s more powerful than OBS and allows for more customization and features. However, it is a paid program, so it may not be the right choice for those just starting out.
Lighting Setup & Gameplay Considerations
In addition to the hardware and software requirements, there are a few additional factors to consider when attempting to optimize your streaming setup for a smoother and more professional-looking stream.
First, as a console gamer, it’s important to consider the lighting in your streaming area. Proper lighting is essential to a professional-looking stream. Investing in a studio lighting setup can be beneficial and can often lead to more viewers tuning into your stream. Consider installing adjustable LED lights to the walls and ceiling of your streaming room for optimal lighting coverage.
I’d also advise giving thought to the content of your stream. You may want to consider using a clean chat window (such as StreamLabs Chatbot) to keep the focus on your gameplay. If you plan on playing game tournaments on your stream, make sure to review the rules set by the tournament organizers. Knowing the rules and regulations can save you a lot of hassle down the road.
Conclusion
Streaming PC gaming can be a difficult endeavor, especially for console gamers. However, with the right hardware, software, and knowledge, you can create professional-looking streaming experiences that viewers will love.
Just remember the basics: upgrade your streaming device to either the Elgato Game Capture HD60 Pro or the Logitech StreamCam, purchase a good-quality microphone (like the Shure SM7B or Rode NT-USB), utilize professional streaming software (OBS or Xsplit) and establish proper lighting in your streaming area. Once you’ve taken all of these steps, you’ll be well on your way to crafting professional-looking streams for your viewers.
Good luck and happy streaming!
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