With gaming setups becoming more and more complex, it can be hard to know what you need in order to start streaming your favorite video games. Here is a simple guide to help you get started!
In order to stream video games, you will need a computer with a good graphics card, as well as a fast and reliable internet connection. You may also want to invest in a quality microphone, webcam, and game streaming software, so that your viewers can see and hear you clearly.
If you plan on playing video games that require a lot of system resources, such as Battlefield or Mass Effect: Andromeda, you will also need a powerful gaming laptop or desktop. Be sure to check your computer’s hardware specifications before making a purchase.
In order to get the most out of your streaming experience, you may want to invest in some gaming accessories. Here are a few that we recommend:
A good gaming headset will help you hear enemies and other important audio cues more clearly. It can also help to reduce distractions and improve your overall gameplay.
A gaming mouse offers superior accuracy and control than a standard mouse, making it perfect for first-person shooters and other fast-paced games.
A gaming keyboard has several extra keys that can be used to execute in-game commands quickly and easily. It also has a backlight feature, which allows you to see the keys even in low-light situations.
A gaming monitor provides better color accuracy and more vibrant visuals than a standard monitor, making it perfect for both gameplay and video editing.
A capture card is important because it allows you to record your gameplay footage without the need of any extra computer programs (such as things like Open Broadcast Software). The card can be connected via USB or HDMI cable, depending on which type is compatible with your home setup.
Streaming PC vs Console? If you want to stream video games… There’s no debate that streaming video games from a console like the PlayStation 4 Pro or Xbox One X will give you better quality compared to their older counterparts — but streaming consoles do have some downsides. For starters, consoles tend to be cheaper than gaming PCs (at least at first). Also, console games are typically locked to the specific hardware. That means new consoles require you to rebuy all of your favorite video games on the new system. And while some game companies will allow you access to old game saves or library titles through their online stores, not every developer wants to give players that kind of freedom. If streaming is your main goal for video game optimization, we suggest getting a PC gaming rig over a console any day.
You can also check out "how to stream on Twitch" here. Consider which stream software work best for you. Check out the best stream deck alternatives to help with your decision.
So you have a nice rig, but if it’s not optimized correctly it won’t matter. The first step is making sure that your internet speed can keep up with the quality of streaming you want to achieve. Speedtest is an excellent tool for measuring your upload and download speeds. Additionally, make sure to check your computer specs against the recommended requirements for any games you plan on playing. The last thing you want are crashes or lagging during gameplay as this will annoy those viewing and be a strain on your equipment.
A super-fast capture card helps avoid performance issues by transferring footage directly from the graphics processing unit onto a USB or external hard drive for instant editing and uploading.
Using a gaming headset will help you focus more easily on the game by blocking out background noise and also allows you to hear any important audio cues that may be missed through your computer speakers.
Make sure your setup is in an area with good lighting so viewers can see all the action as it’s happening. Dim or poorly lit areas can be a real strain on the eyes and make it difficult for viewers to follow along.
Platforms like Twitter, Twitch, and YouTube offer gamers different ways of engaging with their viewers. You can create streaming schedules, post updates about your progress in games, and even take questions from the audience during live sessions.
If you want to put your best face forward while streaming, it’s important to have a good quality webcam. This will help players see your reactions and emotions to the game as you play, which can add an extra layer of excitement and engagement.
Lastly, make sure you take care of your gaming PC and other accessories by properly cleaning them after each use. This will help keep them in good condition for years to come. By following these tips, you'll be on your way to becoming a successful streamer in no time!
