If you enjoy video games, you will undoubtedly have spent some time on Twitch. As gaming has grown in popularity among spectators as well as participants, Twitch has cornered the market in game streaming. In fact, it has only been in recent months that major players like Microsoft, YouTube and Facebook have even tried to muscle in on the action.
For now, Twitch remains the platform of choice, and we have all seen the stories of streamers like Ninja and Shroud who have made millions just from streaming their games. The Twitch community continues to grow, both in terms of streamers and viewers – could you become the next big star? Here are some factors you will need to consider.
Choose your niche
Yes, there are exceptions to every rule, and some streamers have based their success on playing a range of games. However, 90 percent have got to the top by specializing in a specific game or genre. It pays to think a little outside the box here. You will struggle to win viewers if you join the thousands streaming Fortnite or CS:GO. However, there is a whole universe of other games out there.
Think about niches that are popular to play but are not so commonly streamed. For example with the real casinos temporarily closed, online alternatives are massively popular right now and are attracting newcomers every day – check out free spins on registration offers here to get a taste of what is available. These new players are eager to get all the strategy tips they can to try to beat the house, so potential followers are ready and waiting.
Put in the hard yards
One thing that should be clear from the above is that it’s not enough to just play for fun and expect viewers to rush to see your stream. You need to be an elite player, someone who can show mere mortals how it is done, and that applies whether you are playing a slot game or FIFA or Grand Theft Auto. In other words, if you want streaming to earn you money, you need to put in the hours and treat it like a job.
Engage to build your community
If you make your streams an interactive experience, people will be more likely to come back – and to tell their friends. Followers get the opportunity to send to messages and comments, so be sure to reply. It’s as important for you to know them as it is for them to know you, so listen to what they say, even if it has nothing to do with the game. Being able to greet a follower with something like “how did it go at the dentist today?” will make them feel like part of your inner circle.
Don’t stint on the kit
If you want to be serious about streaming, you need to make a few investments. A good PC is obvious, but also make sure your webcam and microphone are up to snuff – after all, when you are streaming to thousands of adoring followers, you want to know they can see and hear you properly!